Debra Lou Smith

12/14/1953 - 05/29/2025

Debra Lou Smith, 71, of Lagro, Indiana, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on December 14, 1953, in Illinois to Floyd Turner and Norma Watson, Debra lived a life full of compassion, dedication, and unwavering love for those around her.

Debra was the heart and soul of her family—always putting others first, giving without hesitation, and offering her kindness freely. She is survived by her beloved husband, Edgar Smith, and her children: Alicia Smith (boyfriend Kaleb Conelley), Ryan Smith (fiancé Sondra Kramer), Barbra Hilterbrand, Philip Smith (wife Rebecca), Kimberly Smith, and Beverly Croy. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Bently Smith, Kohen Smith, Emma Lou Conelley, Tracy Smith (son Wodlyn), Roary Smith, Ashlynn Snow, Jarreck Snow, Blayne Christelieb, Jeremy Hilterbrand, Jill Medina (sons Jayden and Jayce, daughter Julie), Jeff Hilterbrand, Sydney Baer (husband Jordan, daughter Riley), Morgan Gerken, Brad Rickman (children Teara Jacobs, Jodeci Rickman, and Arabella Rickman).  Debra is also survived by her siblings, Penny Turner McPherson(husband Bob McPherson), brother Richard Turner(partner Martie Stewart), brother Todd Turner, brother Patrick Turner.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Norma Turner; her brothers, Kurt and Randy Turner; and her sons-in-law, Tim Hilterbrand and Jim Croy.

Debra worked as a proud United Steel Worker at GDX (formerly General Tire) for 34 years. After retirement, she continued serving others as a substitute teacher and an advocate/navigator for Aspen Insurance. Never one to slow down, Debra returned to school and graduated at the top of her class from Ivy Tech College with a Bachelor’s degree in Office Administration and Software Concentration. She served as Treasurer of the Wabash Student Government Association from 2008–2009 and President from 2009–2010.

Debra had a vibrant spirit and was known as a social butterfly, always quick with a warm smile and generous heart. Whether it was helping organize and support local tractor pulls with her husband, son, and grandson, or spending her days caring for her grandchildren, Debra poured love and energy into everything she did.

A Celebration of Life will held at a later date.