Debra Lynn "Debbie" McMurry (née Perry), 70, passed away on Feb. 11, 2025, in Pittsburg, Kansas.
Debbie was born on June 18, 1954, in Joplin, Missouri. She graduated from Parkwood High School in 1972 and dedicated her career to education, working as a special education para at Cherokee Middle School for 20 years before retiring in 2020.
Debbie loved her family and especially her three grandchildren.
A devoted member of First Christian Church in Pittsburg, Debbie found joy in gardening, antiquing, fishing, and traveling. She especially cherished her home, where she lovingly tended to her fish pond and chickens. She was also an active member of the Little Balkans Gardeners Club (Zone 6 Garden Club). Traveling with her dear friend Ted McCormick brought her great happiness, and she always carried a warm smile for those around her.
Debbie is survived by her sons, Eric Smith and Ryan Smith (Mindy); her grandchildren, Cooper and Catie Smith and Liza Smith; and her brother, Dan Perry. She was preceded in death by her husband, Doug McMurry; and her parents, Warren and Joyce Perry.
A visitation will be held on Feb. 15, 2025, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th Street, Pittsburg, Kansas. A private burial will take place at a later date. The family suggests memorials to the Little Balkans Gardeners Club. Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary.
