Deborah Jane "Debbie" Mears

1952 - 2024

Deborah "Debbie" Jane Mears, 71, of Conway, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 27, 2024. Born in Mount Vernon, Arkansas, on Oct. 20, 1952. She was the youngest daughter of Elvis and Verdie (Keathley) Caldwell. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Barbara Sublett and Peggy Tankersley; and her brother, Gary Caldwell.

Debbie was a long-time member of Liberty Church of Christ in Conway. She retired from Vilonia Public Schools in 2014 after 30 years of service as an Administrative Assistant in the Central Office. Debbie was an avid reader, competitive Rook player and spent many hours working in her yard and tending to her flowers. She enjoyed going to movies, cooking with her granddaughters, playing board games and working puzzles. Although her favorite hobby was watching her granddaughters play sports. You would often see her sitting in the stands, cheering on her granddaughters, as she never missed a game. Debbie was well-known for her legendary Chocolate Gravy, which was highly requested, and was a favorite amongst the friends and family that were lucky enough to eat it.

Debbie was the youngest child and grew up with older siblings. She was fortunate to be raised alongside not only her siblings, but also her nieces, who she loved dearly, and considered them her sisters. As the matriarch of her family, Debbie's life was a collection of chapters that told a story of dedication, love and kindness. She was a beloved sister, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend to all who knew her and was the treasured jewel of her family. She was a strong, determined and fiercely independent woman who overcame many obstacles. Those who were truly close to her enjoyed her special sense of humor, noteworthy dialogue and sharp, sarcastic wit.

Above all, Debbie cherished her role as a grandmother the most, finding great pride and joy in the precious moments spent with her grandchildren. You would often see her overflowing with delight for her grandchildren's smallest achievements. She was a proud "Mimi," who frequently boasted her admiration for her grandchildren to anyone in the vicinity. Her bond with her granddaughters was a true example of how to love unconditionally. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love and nurturing and a family who will forever miss her dedication, sacrifices, care and support.

She is survived by her two loving sons, Cody Mears of Conway and Clint Mears (Heather) of Vilonia; her granddaughters, Laney Mears, Kinley Mears, Layla Mears and Hayden Mears; sister-in-law, Bonnie Caldwell; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Visitation is Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Conway from 6-8 p.m. Funeral services will be Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Conway at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Heffington Cemetery in Enola, Arkansas.