She was preceded in death by Yvette Thompson. She is survived by three sons, Kevin Whitaker, Nicholas Smith and Robert Balala; three daughters, Jennifer Whitaker, Kristy Morris and Rebecca Balala; two brothers, Everett Shoemaker Jr. and Lawrence Fallau; four sisters, Gael Ke “GK” Shoemaker, Janice McCue, Ellen Brock and Mona Shoemaker; her parents, Everett and Wenonah; and 15 grandchildren, Colten, Kyler, Keliana, Kyren, Kalea, Kinleigh, Jerin, Brendon, Korina, Kaeden, Jessica, Raymond, Trinity, Kekoa and Kenny.

Dear Mom,
You taught us to be strong, compassionate and loving. You taught us to be courageous, humble and hard-working. You taught us determination and independence. We admire your silent strength to push through any situation, no matter how difficult. We will always remember your wisdom, strength and love, even your stubbornness. We love you, Mom.

Your grandchildren brought you so much joy, and you gave each one special attention. When you had the extra time, you could be found near the water, fishing, camping and collecting treasures. You were so crafty, you had the talent to turn nothing into something beautiful. Your attention to details kept you pushing until it was perfect. With all these special gifts, there’s so much more. You took pride in being a mother, grandmother, sister, daughter. You loved gardening, cooking, baking and sewing, making “Suzy Homemaker” look like a rookie.

Debbie was a very kind and giving person. She had an incredible silent strength that could only be witnessed by those who were around her during some of her most difficult and trying times. To me, her brother, it seemed nearly infallible.

She loved the ocean and always enjoyed looking for seashells in the sand. She had a knack for calming situations down when they seemed to be escaping your grasp. I believe that even with our deepest sorrow at this time, she would still look for a way to comfort us.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. Eighth, Salina 67401.