Debra Russ Lafave, age 53, of Palm Harbor, Florida, took her final breath on January 19, 2026, at her residence. Born to her late parents, Patrick Eddie Russ and Terry Warner, in Dunedin, Florida on January 23, 1972, Debbie, as she was affectionately known, was a beacon of warmth, dedication, and love for all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Debbie was a proud alumnus of the University of South Florida, where she earned her bachelor's degree in business. She carried her passion for organization and meticulous attention to detail into her successful career as an accountant with Centene Corporation.

A true Florida native, Debbie held a special place in her heart for her favorite football teams: the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and her college armada USF. She enjoyed time spent on the beach and traveling to visit family and friends. Her home was often filled with the sounds of playful mews from her beloved fur babies, Bella and Gabby, and her cherished inherited cats, S'mores and Graham.

Her proudest accomplishment was the bond she shared with her stepson, Corey Lafave. Despite being his stepmother for seven years, she loved and cared for him as her own, standing by his side throughout his life. She was also blessed to have married her one true love, Tim Lafave, and even after the marriage ended, they remained best friends.

Preceded in death by her parents, she is survived by her aunt, Dianne Buck, her uncle, James Russ, and five cousins: Bryan Warner, Danielle Coffey, Dawn Thomas, Steven Warner, and Sarah Garcia. Her godson, Joey, will also remember her fondly.

Debbie will always be remembered for her wholehearted dedication to her family and friends, her meticulous organization, and her unwavering love for her pets. Her memories will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A service to celebrate Debbie's life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 4 pm at the Light of the World Tabernacle, located at 8114 Leo Kidd Ave, Port Richey, Florida 34668. Attendees are encouraged to wear jerseys of her favorite football teams in her honor. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friends of Strays in St Pete, who kindly took in her four cats to find them loving homes.

Following the service, a gathering will be held at Whiskey Joe's Bar and Grill in Port Richey at 5:30 pm, where attendees may socialize, reminisce, and watch the sunset over the water as we remember our beloved Debbie. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.

To know Debbie was to love her, and her spirit will forever live on in the hearts she touched.

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