Debra “Debbie” Byron, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and faithful servant of the Lord, went home to be with her Savior Jesus Christ on Aug. 23, 2025. She entered into eternal peace, after a life beautifully lived in love and devotion. She was 69.
Debbie was born on Feb. 27, 1956, in Flint, Michigan, to George and Rose Waldo. At the age of 10, she moved with her family to Hoquiam, Washington, where she would plant roots deep in faith, family, and community. She graduated from Hoquiam High School in 1974, and it was on the day of the famous Turkey Day Football Game in 1973, in her band uniform, that she met the love of her life, Bob Byron. Though she briefly moved to Chicago after graduation, Bob’s love drew her back home, and in 1976, the two were married, beginning five decades of life together.
Debbie worked as a secretary for a time, but the role that truly defined her was being a mother. When her children arrived, she poured her heart and soul into them, making their happiness her life’s mission. She packed their lunches with care, never missing a note or treat to brighten their day, and she planned the most creative and memorable birthday parties and Christmases — each one filled with love, laughter, and her thoughtful touch. Her children were her joy, her pride, and her whole world.
When she became a grandmother, that love only deepened. Her grandchildren were her treasures, and she adored spending time with them, sharing her wisdom, warmth, and sense of wonder.
Debbie also found joy and peace in God’s creation. She was an avid gardener, finding comfort in tending the soil, pulling weeds, and nurturing flowers and vegetables alike. Gardening was her therapy, her place of reflection and renewal. She often found inspiration in the words: “And into the garden I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.”
Her kitchen was another sacred place of love. A gifted baker, Debbie delighted in blessing her family with homemade breads, cookies, pies and cakes, always infused with the sweetness of her heart.
Above all, Debbie’s greatest passion was her love for Jesus. A devout Christian, she spent countless hours reading her Bible, praying faithfully, and fellowshipping with dear friends in her beloved Bible study group. Her faith was not just a part of her life — it was the cornerstone of it. Even in her final days, she was at peace, unafraid, knowing with certainty that she would soon be in the presence of her Lord and Savior.
Debbie was preceded in death by her father George and just recently, her mother, Rose and her dear brother, Jim.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Bob; her son Nick and his wife Chandrea, along with their sons Emmett and Ethan; her son Jarrod; and her daughter Rebecca and her husband Chip, along with their daughters Olivia and Gracie. She is also survived by her loving sisters Sherry and Nellie.
Though her absence leaves an ache in the hearts of those who loved her, we rejoice in knowing that she has entered into the eternal joy of Heaven. Debbie’s life was a testimony to the beauty of a mother’s love, the grace of a servant’s heart, and the unwavering hope found in Christ.
“Well done, good and faithful servant … enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23
A special thank you to Harbors Home Health & Hospice for their excellent and loving care.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.
A service will be held at Immanuel Baptist Church in Hoquiam on Sept. 20 at 11 a.m. Lunch to follow.
