A celebration of Deborah’s life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Waynesville Community Church

Deborah Ann Wilson, 73, of Waynesville, MO, Passes Away

Deborah Ann Wilson, 73, of Waynesville, Missouri, passed away peacefully in her home on Saturday, February 15, 2025. She was surrounded by the love of her family and friends in her final moments.

Deborah was born on June 12, 1951, in Springfield, Missouri, to loving parents who instilled in her a strong sense of family, kindness, and resilience. She spent her childhood in the Ozarks, where she developed a deep appreciation for nature and small-town life. Deborah graduated from Waynesville High School in 1969 and went on to pursue a career in education, dedicating over 30 years to teaching in the local school district. She was a beloved teacher, known for her patience, warmth, and unwavering belief in her students’ potential.

In 1973, Deborah married the love of her life, James Wilson, and together they built a home filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. They raised two children, whom she adored, and she took great pride in being a devoted mother and later a doting grandmother. Her family was her greatest joy, and she never missed an opportunity to support them in their endeavors, whether it was attending school events, hosting family gatherings, or offering words of wisdom and encouragement.

Beyond her dedication to family and education, Deborah was an active member of her community. She spent countless hours volunteering at local charities, her church, and the public library. Her passion for reading and lifelong learning was contagious, and she inspired many to embrace the joy of books and knowledge. She also had a talent for gardening and took pride in tending to her beautiful flower beds, which brought color and life to her neighborhood.

Deborah will be remembered for her kind heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith. She had a way of making everyone feel valued and loved, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her. Her legacy of love, generosity, and wisdom will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

She is survived by her husband, James; her two children, Michael Wilson (Sarah) and Emily Carter (Daniel); four grandchildren; her sister, Margaret Lane; and numerous extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her younger brother, Thomas.

A celebration of Deborah’s life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Waynesville Community Church. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., with services at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Waynesville Public Library in her honor.