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BORN

1971

DIED

2019

FUNERAL HOME

Edwards Funeral Home

201 North 12th Street

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Debra Stevens Obituary

Debra Stevens
Debra Ann Stevens, 47, of Fort Smith went to be with the Lord on Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019. Debbie was a member of East Side Baptist Church where she taught a Sunday school class full of young children for many years. She did not have any children, but she did love dogs. She had a white poodle named Sammy that she took everywhere with her.
Debbie was a very kind, loving and caring person, she would go out of her way to do for others as well as help others. She will be dearly missed.
Her husband, Marcus Stevens; her mother, Nancy Organ; multiple family members and friends; as well as the people that she worked with survive her.
Debbie will be cremated Thursday, Sept. 5, 2019. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.
To leave an online tribute, visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Times Record from Sep. 4 to Sep. 5, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Debra Stevens

Sponsored by Edwards Funeral Home.

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Kathryn Alline Kreipke

January 13, 2025

See the Purple flower???
Then you see Debbie
Stevens. Love you

Nova D.

December 6, 2024

Ms. Stevens, although I never got to meet you, I am so, so deeply sorry for your loss. I am heartbroken and crying right now. I will pray for you every day. Even on that traumatic call, you cared for the lady who was disrespecting you in so many ways. You are truly a brave young woman, and there should be more people like you in this world. It's a shame, what this world has come to, but I will never ever forget you. You are inspiring, amazing, beautiful, everything. Your so amazing, Ms. Stevens, you really are. You mean so much to me. I feel horrible. Donna should've immediately sent help. I would've saved you if I had the chance. You have no idea how much you mean to me, as an elementary school student, even. You are the most inspiring and heart warming person to ever live. I wish I knew you, and got to meet you. You are so beautiful. You're a saint, God bless you. Though you never knew me, I look so highly of you. You were nothing but good. This Christmas, I will send my prayers to you. I am so upset by that call, you never did anything to deserve that, I am deeply sorry on Donna's behalf. You must've been such an amazing person to be around. I found out your story while watching a video-I never thought I'd feel so strongly about anything on a You-tube video before. Now, I realize it's much more than just a video, it's a story of pure selflessness, generosity, beauty, and kindness, even to those who may not show it back. I wish you nothing but the best. Rest in peace. Your story is amazing. I will never, ever forget you. Thank you, Ms. Stevens.

Brian

August 29, 2024

Although I never got to meet Debra, her story hit me hard. This just hurts me on the inside. I know a sweet soul like hers is in paradise now, so that is comforting. Fly high sweet angel!

Susan Schroeder

August 29, 2024

NEVER forget You! XO
If I can support and help your cause, I will Debra.

Susan Schroeder

August 19, 2024

Dear Beautiful Girl, I am so very sorry you had to leave the Earth this way, so very scared and worried for your family's feelings. I could only been so lucky to have a Daughter or Sister like You. This truly is the saddest story I ever heard. RIP, I know your untimely Death helped others believe it or not. My deepest condolences.

Angel

May 20, 2024

Just heard your story so sorry may and your mom rest in paradise together

Julie Ann Sheridan

May 10, 2024

I´m so sorry sweet girl I´ve just heard what happened to you & even though I didn´t know you I ache with grief. Rest in peace sweetheart such a darling
With love
Julie-Ann and everybody here in the United Kingdom sleep tight beautiful

Jennifer

May 10, 2024

I´m in Australia and I´ve just heard this horrendous story. It´s all I´ve thought of since. You had the sweetest face I´ve seen and were kind till the last even though you were treated so badly. I will NEVER forget you Ms Debbie.

Joe

May 9, 2024

I wish I could have helped you. I would have tried.

Cindy

May 8, 2024

Oh Mrs. Debra, your story has impacted me in so many ways. I never got the pleasure of meeting you, but I could tell how big your heart was. It is evident how sweet and kind you were, even thinking of others while you must have been so scared. I'm so sorry you didn't the kindness and reassurance you deserved. You're a treasure, and I know you're now safe in the arms of Jesus!

Kee

April 24, 2024

I am so sorry that this has happened to you, my heart is hurt hearing your story. I send my condolences to you as well as your family your story has impacted me in ways you could only imagine. R.I.P Queen

Cameron Alexander LaFontaine

March 15, 2024

It's amazing the impact your story has made on me all these years after your death. Halfway across the country and I knew you. I hope your loved ones have found peace and that you found your way home.

Tracy

October 17, 2023

I'm so sorry you had to experience this in your last moments. I would have swam to rescue you if I could have. I'm so very sorry. Rest in peace.

Jennifer Weber

September 13, 2023

Debra, sweet girl, I didn't know you personally but I just want to say you touched my heart and honestly I would have done anything and everything to have been there for you, I wouldn't have given up until you were safe, dry and warm. Your soul is one in a million and you have so many around the world that love you and pray for you. Rest easy sweet girl and one day I'll get to meet you in the afterlife. Much love Jennifer Weber

Kathy swift

August 8, 2023

I would have prayed with you Debbie god bless Kathy &. Linda xx

Courtney

June 26, 2023

Debra - your story has impacted millions. It certainly touched me and I prayed with you today. God Bless you and your family

c

June 23, 2023

Debra-
you should not have been treated like this during your last moments.
may you rest in peace with your loved ones.

kate

June 15, 2023

i would have prayed with you. rip debra.

Jenny Connors

April 23, 2023

God bless Debra Ann, her mother Nancy, and her little pup Sammy. I wish I had known you all.

Amanda T.

February 24, 2023

I did not know Debbie personally but came across her story online. I´m posting this to say that you aren´t forgotten Debbie and your life/story are still helping others in the world today.

Michael S.

February 4, 2023

Hello again, here to wish and pray for debra's family and friends, that they and debra as well as her mother are still remembered and loved by all, she was an amazing soul, we will never forget your kindness.

Julie

January 31, 2023

I have just come across this story and am truly moved by Debbie's passing. She must have been a loving and gentle person from the beautiful words in the tribute. May God rest her soul and comfort all her family. The story of her passing still affects people since several years have gone by. I heard her call and my heart broke. I will remember her name always.

Michele

January 20, 2023

My heart aches for what you went through. You were any Angel on this earth and now in heaven. I'm so very sorry.

Brian Haynes

May 28, 2022

I didn't know you but your story absolutely tore my heart up. May you rest in peace beautiful sweet angel

Sam

December 23, 2021

I am so sorry to have heard of Debbie´s passing. I did not know her but I have heard her story. Rest in peace in Heaven, beautiful soul.

Stacey Klug

November 25, 2021

oh sweet lady my heart breaks for you.... I don't know you but I can't stop thinking about how sweet you seem I heard the 911 call and my heart weeps for you.

Josie

November 24, 2021

Debbie,

I´ve been impacted by your story so much because I could hear what a sweet lady you were on the call and I could not bare how you were treated. I´m so sorry for what you went through I have been thinking about you so much! I pray that your family finds comfort in all the memories of you. May you Rest In Peace you sweet woman.

Joe balli corpus christi texas

October 1, 2021

You will never been forgotten you will live forever in the kingdom of god.

Linda in Barling, Arkansas

August 10, 2021

I miss you Debbie. Every time we let Angie off at her home, I look down that street and remember where it all ended for you. Driving back down the road where the creek flooded. I had to forward my pictures off my phone before I lost them, so I have been seeing your images a lot lately along with the creek memorial . LINDA, ANGIE, WAYNE, AND BETTY JEAN miss you too and know that you and your mom and little Sammy are with Jesus.

Kerri R Kinsey

August 9, 2021

Rest in peace and rise in glory, beautiful angel. My heart breaks for your family and you. From what I've read you left this world a better place. Prayers for all WV USA

Alana Wehrle

April 30, 2021

Debra I'm so sorry you had to go through this but you are now resting and at peace with God, your kind soul will live on through your family and friends , God bless you and them
Alana , Scotland UK

March 24, 2021

I'm just a kid from some other country and I saw the video of your 911 call. It was devastating to watch and I hope you rest well in Heaven.

Michael S

February 18, 2021

I'm a stranger from a neighboring country, I posted many times before, wishing nothing but the best for her family, such a sweet lady, sweet family, my heart still aches, i will never understand this world, i only have my faith and day by day this world keeps taking it, if i can make change i want it to be with the kind heart debbie and her mother had. god bless.

Hailie Steadward

February 3, 2021

I may be a stranger who actually lives in the area and state you died in, but after listening to your 911 call, I will never forget you. You sounded like a beautiful and charming young lady. May your family be blessed with love in these hard times of sorrow. God bless you and your mother as well.
I hope you are having a wonderful time in Heaven and I can't wait to meet you one day Miss Debbie. Rest in Paradise.

~ Hailie Steadward

January 11, 2021

I may be a stranger from the other side of the country, but after hearing your story I will always remember you. God Bless you Debbie. Your family knows they will see you again one day.

Grey Family

September 25, 2020

May you rest in peace and power. You will never have fear, pain, or sadness. You will forever have joy, and be free with our Father in heaven. One day we will all be reunited again. I look forward to meeting you, Miss Debbie.❤

Grey Family

September 25, 2020

My deepest sympathies and condolences to the family of Debbie. She sounds like she was a beautiful and lovely person who gave love to all. She deserved compassion and comfort and she is receiving that right now with our Father in heaven. Though I know she is deeply missed, you will feel her presence in the sun’s rays, you will feel her happiness when you see butterflies. She is with you always in your heart and has her arms lovingly wrapped around you all. May she Rest In Peace.

August 29, 2020

Bless you Debra, and your mother and family, all your loved ones and ones that loved you. You were to sweet and pure for this world. Rest In Peace Debbie. Your presence will never be forgotten.

Maria Saia

August 24, 2020

One year already. RIP young lady

May 6, 2020

What a dear lady. A special blessing to all who knew her.

Bridget Kintz

March 3, 2020

I'm so sorry about her loss. My heart sank when I heard the 911 dispatching. I cried and cried. I wish I known her. May she rest in heaven.

Patty Lehlbach

February 17, 2020

DEAR DEBRA~
HOW I WISH THAT I HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE MET YOU.
YOU WERE A SPECIAL LADY. I CAN SEE THE LOVE AND KINDNESS IN YOUR EYES. THE LORD USED YOU TO TEACH THOSE LITTLE CHILDREN ALL ABOUT HIM AND TO BRING JOY INTO THEIR LIVES.
YOU ARE SAFE IN HEAVEN NOW WITH THE LORD JESUS. NEVER AGAIN WILL YOU HAVE A MOMENT OF FEAR, PAIN OR SUFFERING.
I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO MEETING YOU IN HEAVEN BECAUSE
JESUS PAID IT ALL. I WILL CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR YOUR FAMILY
FOR STRENGTH AND PEACE AS THEY FACE EACH DAY.
PATTY

Carolyn Sherry

December 24, 2019

Sending healing prayers to Debra and her family. I'm so sorry for how she died.

Tatiana I

December 23, 2019

Precious and dear Debbie,
Thinking of you this holiday season and missing the light you brought to the Universe. You went to sleep and woke up in the arms of God. Sending thoughts of love.

Raiko Jordan

October 27, 2019

I'm so sorry how you passed away . my heart goes out to you . I wish I could of saved you

kelly keith

October 9, 2019

May the lord be with her always..Rest in peace...

Cynthia Thygesen

September 27, 2019

May God wrap his arms around you, Sammy and all of your loved ones. I never met you, but your story touched my heart. I'm so sorry that your last moments weren't filled with comforting words. I know you loved the Lord so he was waiting with open arms for you. Please know your death was mourned by many and we will see you on the other side sister.

Linda Wood

September 22, 2019

Martha and Ronnie Yarberro

September 21, 2019

The good lord welcomed her with open arms. She seemed to be such a sweet lady.

Linda Wood

September 21, 2019

Debbie I miss you. Today has finally arrived and now we will be having your memorial service for you and now for you mother, "Nancy" also. I got to be with her on her last day. You never would of known that she was going too. You both will be so missed and have been already. I heard your dog Sammy missed you so much that he is with you too. I know that you all had one happy family reunion when you all saw each other in heaven. Until we all meet again. Love you all. Linda

Andrew Broussard

September 15, 2019

She used to buy me and my brothers Christmas presents every year.

Christy, Bentley, and Debbie

Christy Rabbitt

September 14, 2019

Piper, Debbie, Bentley, and Sammy

Christy Rabbitt

September 14, 2019

Debbie and her Cousin Bentley

Christy Rabbitt

September 14, 2019

Christy Rabbitt

September 14, 2019

Nancy(Mom) and Aunt sandy

Christy Rabbitt

September 14, 2019

Bentley, Leighann, Debbie, Roxanne, Nancy, Matt, and Christy

Christy Rabbitt

September 14, 2019

BILL ENGLES

September 11, 2019

I'M SO VERY SORRY ABOUT DEBBIE.... SHE WAS MY FRIEND AND A GREAT PAPER GIRL... LOVED HER....

BILL ENGLES

September 11, 2019

I'M SO VERY SORRY ABOUT DEBBIE.... SHE WAS ONE GOOD PAPER GIRL... AND MY FRIEND... MAY SHE RIP...

Yvonne Howard

September 11, 2019

My condolences and prayers

Kathryn Kreipke

September 10, 2019

I loved the way she spoiled us co-workers with the bags of candy she would leave at our work stations. She could bag her Papers faster than everyone else.we had many nights of fun and laughter, and her smile and kindness will be missed. I envy all those in Heaven who are experiencing HER love and kindness. See you again one glorious day My Friend.

Diana

September 10, 2019

I didn't know you, but you have impacted my life forever. I will joyfully meet you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ. God bless you and comfort your loved ones, precious Debra.

September 10, 2019

No words can express my sorrow and heartbreak over this. Rest easy sister Debra. Your struggle has ended.

Kally Deymonaz

September 9, 2019

My heart goes out to Debra and her loved ones. I cannot begins to imagine what you all are going through. I pray you find the comfort and strength needed to get through this difficult time. Debra asked to be accompanied in prayer. I will pray for her, her dogs and her family. It's a simple request that I can fulfill. Sending those prayers, compassion and support. With love.

Tara Doxey

September 9, 2019

I'm so terribly sorry for your loss. It's obvious Debbie was a wonderful woman and so very loved. ♥

Kristi Partington

September 9, 2019

My heart aches for Debbie's family and friends. Praying that the light that was her life, goes on, sustaining you all.

Rhetta Hanna

September 9, 2019

My prayers are with the family during this very sad time. Although I did not know Debra, my heart grieves the loss of such a wonderful & caring person.. I pray that her family can take comfort in knowing that she is free from all fear & she is at peace in the presence of Jesus.

Brian King

September 8, 2019

Austin Texas is with you through this tragedy!!

Prayers and hearts go out to this family!

Former Fort Smith Native!

S C

September 8, 2019

RIP beautiful angel

September 8, 2019

Bless your soul, all your loved ones, may they find peace. Rest In Peace Mrs.Stevens. I'll never forget your kindness, I'll never forget the person you where, I look forward to seeing you when the time comes. Rest In Peace, Debra Stevens @>,'

Michael S.

September 8, 2019

Each day gets worse, it's hard, the heartaches won't leave, Almost over a week now I can't stop tearing up, your beautiful heart warming smile is all I see, lord bring her back is all I keep thinking, I'll never forget your kind hearted soul, you will be greatly missed and remembered, even by those you never met. Rest In Peace and Paradise, Debra Stevens

Faith H

September 8, 2019

My deepest condolences. Praying for the family.

At the peak of a flowers beauty
Darkness makes its way
But from the soul of every person
The light it does not fade
Although the darkness falls on me
I shine with all my might
And now that i see heaven's gates
I take to my wings and fly

Chinara Dozier

September 7, 2019

Sending love and prayers. May God be with you all!

1990 ❤

Jennifer Choyfoo

September 7, 2019

You were decent and kind to your core. You were good to me when I needed a friend. I'll forever appreciate who you were and I'll always miss you. I know where you are, and I'll see you again. Thank you for emulating our Lord and having such a huge impact on so many people. Much love to you my sweet friend.

Rebecca

September 7, 2019

We are heartbroken and speechless upon hearing this story.

Deepest sympathies. We are praying for you all.

Renee

September 6, 2019

Your family have my deepest condolence's!
I do not know Debra or your family but I heard her story and I am horrified! I am truly so sorry! I can tell Debra was a beautiful sole! Rest in Peace!

Melanie Eastwood

September 6, 2019

Prayers for the family and friends of Debra. May God hold you in his arms during this troubled time. Rest in Peace, Heaven received a beautiful lady.

Dillian Mcentyre

September 6, 2019

So sad to hear of this sad loss. The lord is lucky to have this beautiful soul in heaven. Rest In Peace❤

Donna Standard

September 6, 2019

I am shaken by the 911 call. It inspired me to by tools for my whole family to shatter windows and cut seat belts in the event they need to get out of their cars fast. I also made them watch videos to let us know what to do if their cars are in water. Rest in peace. Deepest condolences to her family.

Summer Petray

September 5, 2019

Debbie, you a very sweet and kind lady. You made a positive impact on young people's lives. And everyone that involved with you especially me and my brother... You help us during our dark days. I remember when you rescued Sunday... I can't figure out or how it could be you.. trapped in that SUV for an hour.. this is not became reality for me yet.. I have been to your work to see standing there doing your job.. Debbie, You will be dearly missed lots I'll give you my very very very condolences!!!! Rest in peace Debbie!!!!
Sincerely, Summer Petray & Robert Beyerle

Summer Petray

September 5, 2019

I'm so sorry to hear her passing. But she passed away knowing she was going to heaven. I met her when I was 10-11 years old she put positive impact on everyone involved with her. She is the most caring happy person would have ever met. Debbie was one us ones that was always there no matter what. Now actually lost contact with her. Until here recently when my mom asked me to work with her. Then then we got back in contact and I glad I got to see her again... Debbie was someone at my mom's work I could talk to and she would listen... Debbie will be dearly missed... I give her family and Friends my condolences

Jeannie

September 5, 2019

My deepest condolences and prayers for Debra Stevens family, friends, church family and community. Debra's story has touched many hearts. God Bless.

Jennifer Zebio

September 5, 2019

I read her story about ten days ago and have had her on my mind every day since. I'm so sorry for your loss, and hers. She is with the Lord now, but I can't help feeling her life here on earth was cut short. My heart and prayers go out to her loved ones, especially her mom and husband. XO

Barbara Nogues (Johnson)

September 5, 2019

Debbie was a wonderful person She watch my granddaughter when she was little.Iworked with her mom for 32 years and when would go to have lunch at her house there Debbie would have it ready for us,RIP DebbieB

Jessica Millard

September 5, 2019

My prayers are certainly with Debbie's family and friends. I was a classmate of hers. She was so kind and loving. She was timid and never had a cross word for anyone. She has that as well as her love for Jesus as a life testimony. I am privileged to have known Debbie. And I'm so grateful that I'll see her again someday!

Trisha Coffman

September 5, 2019

Although I do not know you personally, I am so sorry that this happened to you sweetie Rip Angel.. u touched alot of lives here... My prayers are with your family and friends fly high with the Angels and Jesus, know u can not be hurt anymore...much love sweet Angel

Sissie Payne

September 5, 2019

God bless your beautiful soul. My prayers are with your family and little dog.

Johny Davis

September 5, 2019

May your beautiful soul continue to Rest in Peace!

Susie Cross

September 5, 2019

I'm sorry for your family and friends loss.

Joy Watkins

September 5, 2019

I want to express how sorry I am for your loss! Prayers to the family and all my thoughts of comfort in your time of difficulties!

September 5, 2019

This is so so incredibly sad....rest in peace Debbie

Chris & Elaine Petray

September 5, 2019

R.I.P Debbie you were the most kind hearted person I have ever known. It's still hard to wrap my head around all this our prayers are with Ms.Nancy and the rest of your closest family and friends

Chris Cannon

September 5, 2019

Debbie, even though I didn't know you, your spirit has touched me. May you rest in peace and may your family, friends and community find comfort in the cherished memories and joy you brought to their lives.

Jackie Kioski-Cox

September 5, 2019

RIP Debbie.... Fly high with the Angels

Maria Saia

September 5, 2019

Heartbreaking what happened. She seemed like such a sweet soul. God give the family strength. My sincere sympathy.

G & K B

September 5, 2019

Rest in Peace

Linda and Sadie my dog. Give her a hug for me.

Linda Wood

September 5, 2019

Debbie, I am so blessed to get to know you through East Side Baptist Church. Seeing you every Sunday through the pre-school ministry for almost twelve years. The children that you taught will never forget you. I'm so glad that we got closer towards the end with you and your mom. The meals shared together at Village Inn and other restaurants along with the fellowship that we shared. I love you dear friend, until we meet again. Linda Wood

Cynthia Hay

September 5, 2019

I did not know Mrs Debbie but I wanna say how heart broken and sorry I am for her and her family! Sending out prayers to you and you family!

Jane Hinkle

September 5, 2019

Debra delivered our newspaper for nearly 20 years. She was very dependable, throwing even in snow and ice. We are heartbroken as to what happened. We send our most sincere sympathy to her family and friends.

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