Deborah Willoughby, 75, Belle, passed away Tuesday, Nov.1 at University of Missouri Hospital.
She was born on March 21, 1947, to the late Rex and Alma (Willoughby) Drewel in Belle.
She was a lifelong resident and a graduate of Belle High School and Columbia College with a degree in Criminal Justice at the age of 61 proving that you’re never too old.
Deborah had been employed at Walmart, Woodland Real Estate where she was the secretary, then obtaining her real estate/brokers license and opening up Crossroads Real Estate in Belle. She also worked at the Missouri State Highway Patrol and retired as a division secretary. After retirement, Deborah enjoyed her role as a substitute teacher both for the Belle and Fatima School Districts.
As well as being a dedicated employee, she had such a talent for crafting, whether it be making Cabbage Patch dolls in the 80’s, clothes for her kids, or quilts later in life, there was almost always a sewing machine involved. Deborah also loved fishing, and was known to fish for hours just for a bite.
She was preceded in death by parents, Rex and Alma; brother, Kirby; and sister-in-law, Mitzi.
Deborah is survived by son, Daren James and wife Juli of Columbia and daughter, Mandy Kliethermes and husband Mark of Loose Creek; and grandchildren, Daniel and Brianne James and Austin and Megan Kliethermes.
Visitation will be held Saturday, Dec. 17, at the Liberty Church of Christ in Belle from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. with the funeral service immediately following.
Memorial contributions suggested to the Osage County Regional Vet Clinic in Linn or the Liberty Church of Christ in Belle.
Arrangements entrusted to Sassmann’s Chapel in Belle.
