Debera Jean Gilbert's Obituary
Debera Jean Gilbert, 69, of Decatur, IL, went home to be with her Lord on January 6, 2025, after fighting the good fight at The Loft Rehabilitation of Rock Springs.
Debera was born in Dayton, Ohio on August 21, 1955, the daughter of William H. and Veda F. (Wilt) Kennedy. Debera married the love of her life, James A. Gilbert, on November 17, 1989. This union blessed them with three children.
Debera worked at Decatur Memorial in the Dietary Department for almost 30 years before retiring.
Debera was a beautiful soul. She enjoyed the countless hours spent playing card games and bingo with her husband. She loved her children and grandchildren with every inch of her body. Seeing all her children together brought her so much joy and happiness. She loved country music with her favorite song being ‘Amazing Grace’ by Alan Jackson. She also loved watching Pitbull and Paroles, her favorite color purple and butterflies.
She leaves to cherish her memories her husband James Gilbert, sons James W.R. Gilbert (Ashley Tucker) and Matthew A. Gilbert, daughter Frances M. Austin (Delaunte), grandchildren, Jayden, Nichole, Rayne, Jamie, Mia, Aiden, Ashton and Aleah, and special niece Sherry Reimer. Everyone who came in contact with Debbie felt much joy and warmth from the love she gave. She will truly be missed by all those who had the opportunity of having known her.
She was predeceased by her parents and half brother, Robert Reynolds.
A Celebration of Debera’s life will be held from 2pm until 4pm, Saturday, August 23, 2025, what would have been Debera's 70th birthday, at the Scovill House, 71 S. Country Club Road, Decatur, IL 62521.
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