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Debra Ann Shoemaker
SIKESTON — Debra Ann Shoemaker, age 66, of Sikeston passed away Friday, June 23, 2023, at her home in Sikeston.
Debra was born on June 28, 1956, in Sikeston, to Shirley Hubbard Watson who survives of Sikeston and the late William Earl Watson.
She was married Sept. 3, 1982, at Little Vine Baptist Church, to Stephen Shoemaker who survives of the home. Debra had worked for Malone & Hyde for 25 years as the Executive Secretary, and then worked for Dr. Joe Jacob for 25 years as his Administrative Assistant.
In addition to her mother and husband, she is survived by, one son, Stephen Blake (Paige) Shoemaker of Sikeston; one daughter, Tara Ann Elizabeth (Tyler) Ribbing of Cape Girardeau, Missouri; one brother, Steven (Lisa) Watson of Norfolk, Virginia; one sister, Sharon (Brad) Parmenter of Bradington, Florida; and four grandchildren, Thomas Aiden Miles, Ellie Ribbing, Sophie Ribbing and Jace Ribbing.
Those who knew Debbie would whole heartedly agree that these are some of the lessons you would have gained by knowing her. Giving is the path to true joy. Take your work seriously but not yourself. The only stranger in your life is the one you have yet to meet. Laughing relieves stress, so laugh. Sing, (Elvis songs if you know them). Your gift to the world are your kids, their gift to you are grandkids. ALL kids deserve to be loved. Don't worry about the mess, there are more important things to worry about. Be kind but don't let anyone walk on you. Family is everything, but don't be afraid to include others in your tribe. Never, ever, ever pay full price when there are bargains everywhere.
If you didn't know Debbie then we are truly sorry. She loved her family so much and was never afraid to show it or speak it out loud, which she did often. Married over 40 years she created a legacy that will reach far into the future, not only through her family but through her tribe and those who knew her.
Pallbearers will be: Blake Shoemaker, Aiden Miles, Brad Parmenter, Brian King, Steve Watson and Tyler Ribbing.
Visitation will be be held Tuesday, June 27, 2023, beginning at 10 a.m. until the time of funeral service at noon.
Interment will follow the service at Missouri Veterans Cemetery at 2 pm.
Ponder Funeral Home is charge of all arrangements and services.