Debra's obituary
In Loving Memory of Debra Haley
Debra Yaeko Haley was born August 25, 1955, in Honolulu, HI and passed away peacefully at home in Lufkin on February 9, 2026.
She is survived by her mother, Tamiko Takahata; her brothers, Bryon Takahata, wife Renee and their sons Jeremiah, Joseph, and Jacob; Wade Takahata and wife Jane; Darryl Takahata and wife Terrie; Keith Takahata, wife Sonju and their son Noah; and Dalton Takahata.
Debra is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 47 years, Timothy Haley; her children, Heather Sparks and her children Wesley and Kieran; Cory Haley, wife Hannah and their children Seth, Lorelai, and Deaglan; Shelita Heaton and husband Justin; Stefan Haley and his son Luca; and Brenden Haley. She is also remembered by her sister-in-law, Teri Runnels and husband Jack, along with many nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.
Debra was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and remained faithful to her beliefs throughout her life. Her faith was a source of comfort and hope, sustaining her through life’s joys and challenges.
For more than 17 years, Debra lived with significant health challenges following a stroke that limited her mobility and communication. Though her voice became soft and selective, there were still precious moments when she would speak the names of those she loved. In those quiet moments, her family felt connection, reassurance, and deep meaning.
Debra will be remembered for her sweetness, gentle spirit, and warm, easy laugh. Those who knew her remember her kindness, warmth, and the light she shared through her smile. She had a soft heart and a caring nature that touched everyone around her. Though her journey was long and difficult, her family finds peace in knowing she is now resting peacefully.
Her memory lives on in the love she gave, the family she nurtured, and the lives she touched.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 2:00 pm at the Lufkin East Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses with Richard Gill officiating.
“Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out.”
— John 5:28–29
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Debra and I finished growing up together. We had our 1st 3 kids together. She won though she got to 5. I stoped at 3. …
Debra and I finished growing up together. We had our 1st 3 kids together. She won though she got t…
Debra and I finished growing up together. We had our 1st 3 kids…