Debra L. Whitaker

Debra L. Whitaker, aged 65, of rural Chalmers, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on the evening of Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at her home. Born on February 18, 1959, in Phoenix, AZ, she was the beloved daughter of the late David L. Sharpe and Mary L. (Miller) Tatman.

Debra was a 1977 graduate of W.H. Harrison High School in West Lafayette. On July 26, 1980, she married the love of her life, Wayne Whitaker, at St. James Lutheran Church in Reynolds, marking the beginning of a beautiful 44-year marriage.

She was a dedicated member of St. James Lutheran Church in Reynolds and worked for several years at Duncan Electric and Frontier High School in the special education department for 15 years. Debra had fond memories and was always proud of her time at Frontier. Debra had a passion for crafts, sewing, home decorating, and antiquing. Above all, she cherished spending time with her grandchildren, never missing a school or sporting event.

Debra is survived by her loving husband, Wayne, and their children, Patrick (Keli) Whitaker, Justin "Woody" Whitaker, and Alissa (Josh) Rhoda. She was a proud grandmother to Dylan, Ryleigh, Braylon, Porter, Ryder, and Maddox. She is also survived by her siblings, Randy (Mary) Sharpe, and Kathy Sharpe, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Bobby and Mike Sharpe.

Friends may call from 11:00 AM until the time of the funeral service at 2:00 PM on Monday, October 28, 2024, at St. James Lutheran Church of Reynolds, with Pastor Andrew Keller officiating. Interment will follow in St. James Lutheran Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Debra to St. James Lutheran Church of Reynolds or the American Cancer Society.

Please share memories and condolences online at www.clapperfuneralservices.com.