Debra Ann Phipps was born the daughter of Melvin Kates and Emma Smith Kates on June 26, 1957, in Ventura, California, and departed this life October 18, 2017, at her home in Thayer, Missouri, at the age of 60 years.
She was united in marriage in 1995 at Alton, Missouri, to Hershel Phipps.
She is survived by her husband, Hershel Phipps of the home in Thayer, Missouri; her son, James Deckard and wife, Tanya of Boonville, Missouri; two grandchildren, Danielle Deckard of Kansas City, Kansas and Michael Deckard of Boonville, Missouri; two brothers, Danny Kates of Kansas City, Missouri and Don Kates of Springfield, Missouri; two sisters, Bonnie Tusler of California and Virginia Brandt of California; other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Emma Kates; one brother, Dempsey Kates; and two sisters, Lois Melton and Betty Bandy.
She was a Christian and attended Shiloh Grand Gulf Church as long as health permitted.
Debra was a dedicated homemaker and wife; a loving mother and grandmother; and a dear friend and neighbor.
She will truly be missed by her family and all who knew her.
Graveside Services for Debra will be held Friday, October 20th, 2017 at 2:30 PM at Walker Cemetery in Thayer.
The family will receive friends at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, October 20th from 1:00 until 2:00 PM.
Burial will be in the Walker Cemetery in Thayer with services under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. in Thayer.
October 20, 2017 @ 6:42 am
Thoughts and prayers with you and your family today.