Debra Blackwell, age 68, of North Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025, at Endeavor Evanston Hospital, after a courageous 5 ½ year battle with cancer. She was surrounded by love and warmth in her final days, a testament to the many lives she touched throughout her journey.

Born on April 23, 1957, Debra was raised on the south side of Chicago by her devoted mother, Joan Smith, alongside her three brothers. She cherished her family deeply, and her brother Ronald Smith preceded her in death, along with her beloved mother. Debra's early years were filled with the vibrant culture of Chicago, which shaped her into the spirited woman she became.

After graduating from South Shore High School, Debra embarked on her professional journey at Continental Bank and Trust, later transitioning to Allstate Insurance. In her personal life, she married Glenn Blackwell, and together they welcomed their son, Glenn Miguel (aka Kole). Following her separation from Glenn, Debra embraced a new chapter in Rogers Park, where she formed lasting friendships and continued to thrive in her career. She found fulfillment working at Oakton Community College, Lake Forest High School, and part-time at Portillo's on Lake Cook Rd in Deerfield, where her interactions with students and customers brought her immense joy.

A devoted member of Willow Creek Church of South Barrington and later Willow Creek South Lake for over 30 years, Debra's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She found strength and community in her church family, which provided her with support and love throughout her journey.

Debra had a lifelong passion for music, movies, and travel. She was an avid fan of artists like Shirley Horn, Etta James, and Dee Alexander, often found enjoying live performances at the Green Mill in Uptown. Tuesday nights were sacred for her movie outings, where she would brave any weather to indulge in her love for cinema. Debra was a true adventurer at heart, always ready for a road trip or an airplane journey, embodying the spirit of adventure alongside her close friend and soul sister, Sandy. Though she was unable to fulfill her dream of visiting Paris this summer, her plans to explore Norway next summer remain a testament to her adventurous spirit.

Debra leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, deeply missed by her son, Glenn Miguel Blackwell, and daughter-in-law, Kimberly Blackwell. She is also survived by her brothers, Steve (Cindy) Smith and Greg Smith, along with many cherished nieces, nephews, and a multitude of friends who were fortunate to know her.

In honoring Debra's memory, let us celebrate her vibrant spirit, her unwavering love for family and friends, and her zest for life. She will forever remain in our hearts, a guiding light whose laughter and kindness will echo in our memories. A memorial service will be held to celebrate her life on Thursday August 28, 2025 at the South Barrington Willow Creek Church with a service at 4p and a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a Willow Creek Church, in Debra's honor.

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