Debbie J. DeWeese, 69, of Independence, Missouri, passed away April 13, 2025 at her home. Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at Holden Baptist Temple, 605 Lexington Street, Holden, Missouri 64040.
Debbie was born January 18, 1956, in Council Bluffs, IA, the daughter of Larry and Shirley (Stogdill) Smith. A true original, Debbie brought warmth and joy everywhere she went. Whether she was curled up with a good book, cheering on her Chiefs (loudly and proudly—Go Chiefs!), or crocheting blankets to wrap her loved ones in comfort, she poured her heart into everything she did. She never turned down a game of cards, always had a hug at the ready, and left us all smiling with her signature saying: “Bite my butt, Bill.” Debbie had a beautiful way of showing up for the people she loved—especially her kids and grandkids, who meant the world to her. She’ll be deeply missed and forever remembered with laughter, love, and the kind of hugs only she could give.
Debbie was preceded in death by her parents; loving husband, William “Willie”; infant daughter, Christina Marie; and brothers: Larry David Smith and Kenneth Dale Smith.
Her survivors include her three sons: Jason Allen DeWeese of Independence, MO; Stephen Joseph Smith (Karen) of Independence, MO; and Timothy Eugene DeWeese (Jennifer) of Oak Grove, MO; daughter, Kelly Jo Long (Phillip) of Holden, MO; sixteen grandchildren: Chelsey, Amanda, Terry, Michael, Zackery, Conner, Jasen, Christian, Christina, David, Jenna, Justin, Rebecca, William, Elaine, & Lillian; and great-grandchildren: Ariel, Aurora, Andrew, Theodore, Charlotte, Ramona, and Ivy; siblings: Karen L. Ramos Ronald D. Smith (Diane) and Dani L. Smith.
Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home ~ Independence, MO (816) 796-8600