Debra Sue Smith, 69, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025. Born on May 15, 1956, in Marietta, Ohio, Debra was raised in Caldwell, a close-knit town that shaped her strong values and warm spirit. She graduated from Shenandoah High School and later pursued her degree at Mesa State University, where she graduated in 1984 with a Bachelor of Business Administration with an accounting concentration.
In July of 1978, Debra married the love of her life, Thomas Smith. Together, they lived an adventurous and enriching life, calling many places home – from Cairo, Egypt, to Hawthorne, Nevada, Grand Junction, Colorado and Fort Worth, Texas – before settling in Weatherford.
After graduating college, Debra moved to Fort Worth, Texas, where she began a successful career in the banking and auditing industry. In 1992, she joined Pulliam Pools, and through years of dedication and leadership, she became the majority owner in 2010 and sole owner in 2021. Debra was a trailblazer in her field and received numerous accolades throughout her career, including awards for Leadership, Humanitarian Service, Woman of the Year, and Distinguished Alumni. She served on multiple boards and was a respected mentor to young professional women in Parker County, offering her wisdom, support, and encouragement to the next generation of leaders.
A devout Christian, Debra was an active member of Lights Church, where her faith and service were central to her life. She was known for her generosity, compassion, and strong moral compass, all of which were deeply rooted in her belief in Christ.
Debra had a wide variety of hobbies over the years, including scrapbooking, cross-stitch, shopping, and baking with her grandchildren. But her greatest joy was traveling the world. Among her many travel adventures, she especially treasured her visits to Israel, Barcelona, and Australia.
In November 2024, Debra was diagnosed with liver cancer. True to her nature as a private and deeply dignified person, she chose to keep her battle personal, sharing it only with those closest to her. Her strength, grace, and unwavering faith throughout this time were a testament to the remarkable woman she was.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas Smith, and her parents, Floyd and Charlene Thompson.
Debra is survived by her daughter, Reva (Karl) Goellner; son, Nathan (Julie) Smith; and her five grandchildren, Bailey (Alexis) Curtiss, Ethan, Carsten, Sophia, and Genevieve. She also leaves behind her siblings: Barbara DeVolld, Mary Rex, Robert (Marcia) Thompson, Tom (Denise) Thompson, and Steve (Lisa) Thompson, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who adored her.
Debra’s legacy of leadership, generosity, mentorship, faith, and love will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to one of Debra’s favorite organizations, the Careity Foundation, in honor of her life and commitment to compassionate care.
Family and friends were invited to pay their respects during the visitation, which was on May 28, 2025, at the Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel.
A funeral service was held on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at North Side Baptist Church.
