Debra Jean Turner

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

Debra “Debbie” Jean Turner, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2025, at the age of 72.

Debbie was born on August 11, 1952, to Albert and Billie Nabors. She was a proud graduate of Mexia High School, Class of 1970, Debbie went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Sam Houston State University. Driven by her love for learning and her passion for helping children, she later earned her master’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University.

Debbie began her teaching career at Mexia State School, working with children with disabilities—a role that reflected her deep compassion and patient heart. She then continued the rest of her 38-year career at Mexia ISD, where she touched countless young lives with her kindness, dedication, and unwavering belief in every child who came through her classroom. A lifelong member of First Baptist Church in Mexia, her faith guided her gentle spirit and generous heart.

On May 27, 1972, Debbie married her high school sweetheart, Robert “Robby” Turner. They shared 53 wonderful years together. In the early years of their marriage, they lived in Midland and Denton before returning home to Mexia, where they built a life full of love, laughter, and family. She is survived by her husband Robby of Mexia; son Shane and girlfriend Pam of Mexia; daughter Robyn and husband Chris of Spring; and her cherished grandchildren, Austin Hanna, Garrett Turner of Tyler, and Harper Mason of Spring. Debbie is also survived by her brother John Nabors and wife Diana of Denton; sister Tommie Duncan and husband Richard of Mexia; brother-in-law Chuck Turner and wife Wendy of Kilgore; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Billie Nabors; in-laws, Sonny and Johnnie Turner; and nephew, Lance Duncan.

Debbie will be remembered for her warm smile, her gift for listening without judgment, and her joyful laugh that could brighten any room. Above all, her greatest joy was being “Meme” to her grandchildren, who were truly her world.

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 1st, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home in Mexia. A celebration of life service will take place on Saturday, August 2nd, at 3:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Mexia, officiated by Rev. Robert Blackmon. Interment will follow at Mexia Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Shane Turner, Chris Mason, Austin Hanna, Garrett Turner, John Nabors, and Chuck Turner.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Skilled Care of Mexia and Ascension Providence Hospice of Waco for their kindness and compassion.

The family request memorials be made to Mexia ISD Scholarship Fund, Debbie Turner, Special Needs Students, 1120 N. Ross, Mexia, TX 76667