Debra Wendel was born on November 30, 1954, in San Augustine Texas, to Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Mills Jr., and passed peacefully on January 10, 2026, in Bronson Texas at the age of 71 surrounded by the love of her family.
Debbie, as she was known to most, lived a full and meaningful life defined by strength, courage, and compassion. She was a devoted and loyal wife, a loving mother to two beautiful daughters, a proud grandmother to six cherished grandchildren, and a delighted great-grandmother to six great-grandchildren. Her family was the center of her world, and she poured her heart into every role she held.
Professionally, Debbie earned her master’s degree in nursing and served as a Family Nurse Practitioner, dedicating her career to nursing individuals back to health. Her work reflected her deep calling to care for others—a value she carried both within and beyond her profession.
Outside of her career, Debbie found joy in showing her championship registered dogs, growing vegetables, and, above all, sharing her time, kindness, and care with those around her. She had a generous spirit and a nurturing soul that touched countless lives.
Debbie will be remembered for her unwavering love, her selfless service to others, and the quiet strength with which she lived her life.
She is survived by her mother, Eleanor Mills; sister, Sandra Wistrand; brothers, Erne Mills and Andy Mills; her two daughters, Tina Morris and Gina Iribarren, and their spouses, Joush Morris and Rafael Iribarren; six grandchildren, Hannah Cook and husband Will, Savannah Weathered and husband Terrance, Zachary Verhalen, Annah Morris, Brayden Morris, and Mia Iribarren; six great-grandchildren, Jay Miller, Jett Miller, Gentry Cook, Cami Cook, Jaxon Verhalen, and Kash Weathered; her husband, Bob Ozee; and many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Debbie was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, Mike Wendel; and her father, Ernest Mills Jr.
Debbie loved well and was well loved, and her legacy of love, compassion, and resilience will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her.
A Celebration of Life memorial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the Wyman Roberts Funeral Home chapel, located at 316 W. Columbia Street in San Augustine, Texas. The family will begin receiving guests at 10:00 a.m. for visitation.
Visit www.WymanRobertsFH.com for memories and condolences.
Arrangements are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine, Texas.
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