of Conway, AR
October 20, 1952 - July 27, 2024
Deborah ''Debbie'' Jane Mears, 71, of Conway went to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 27, 2024. Born in Mount Vernon, Arkansas on October 20, 1952, she was the youngest daughter of Elvis and Verdie (Keathley) Caldwell. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Barbara Sublett and Peggy Tankersley and her brother, Gary Caldwell.
Debbie was a long-time member of Liberty Church of Christ in Conway. She retired from Vilonia Public Schools in 2014 after 30 years of service as an Administrative Assistant in the Central Office. Debbie was an avid reader, competitive Rook player and spent many hours working in her yard and tending to her flowers. She enjoyed going to movies, cooking with her granddaughters, playing board games and working puzzles. Although her favorite hobby was watching her granddaughters play sports. You would often see her sitting in the stands, cheering on her granddaughters, as she never missed a game. Debbie was well-known for her legendary Chocolate Gravy, which was highly requested and was a favorite amongst the friends and family that were lucky enough to eat it.
Debbie was the youngest child and grew up with older siblings. She was fortunate to be raised alongside not only her siblings, but also her nieces, who she loved dearly and considered them her sisters. As the matriarch of her family, Debbie's life was a collection of chapters that told a story of dedication, love and kindness. She was a beloved sister, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend to all who knew her and was the treasured jewel of her family. She was a strong, determined and fiercely independent woman who overcame many obstacles. Those who were truly close to her enjoyed her special sense of humor, noteworthy dialogue and sharp, sarcastic wit.
Above all, Debbie cherished her role as a grandmother the most, finding great pride and joy in the precious moments spent with her grandchildren. You would often see her overflowing with delight for her grandchildren's smallest achievements. She was a proud ''Mimi,'' who frequently boasted her admiration for her grandchildren to anyone in the vicinity. Her bond with her granddaughters was a true example of how to love unconditionally. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love and nurturing and a family who will forever miss her dedication, sacrifices, care and support.
She is survived by her two loving sons, Cody Mears of Conway and Clint Mears (Heather) of Vilonia; her granddaughters, Laney Mears, Kinley Mears, Layla Mears and Hayden Mears; sister-in-law, Bonnie Caldwell and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Visitation is Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Conway from 6-8 p.m. Funeral services will be Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Conway at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Heffington Cemetery in Enola, AR.
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14 Condolence(s)
Larry and Kathlyn Arnett
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
There are no words to express our heartfelt sympathy. May your memories of the love she had for you and the example she set, help to ease your aching heart. Praying God’s love and care surrounds you.
Cindy Lee
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
I am so sorry for your family's loss. I always enjoyed working with Debbie. She was always so sweet and kind. Sending prayers for all of your family.
Sue Farris
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Cody and Clint, I am so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. She was my “go-to” person at the Central Office because she was always so helpful, kind, and downright fun! She was always so proud of her boys. Sending my condolences to you and all who loved Debbie.
Phyllis Burnham
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
I can’t express how sorry I am to hear about your mom Clint(Heather) I know the days ahead will be hard. If I can help in any way please don’t hesitate to ask. Praying for comfort and peace that only God can provide!!
shannon rainbolt
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
Clint, Heather, & family - Sending you healing prayers and comfort during this difficult time. A mother’s love is eternal. I pray the memories you shared together be your guiding light. I know you will surely miss her presence.
Fred Henderson
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
So very sorry to hear! You will be truly missed, Dear Lady! Prayers for the family!
Cindy Heffington Dickey
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
So sorry to hear of Debbie’s passing. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Julie Maxwell
Monday, July 29, 2024
Praying for you all and sending love.
Stanley Gordon Jr
Monday, July 29, 2024
Clint, Cody, and family….so sorry to hear of the loss of Debbie. While there are no words I can say to ease your pain, just know that there are many people who are praying for and thinking about you and your families. What a gift we have to know that we have the assurance that we can see our loved ones again one day. Love you all.
Carrel Johnston
Monday, July 29, 2024
To The Family of my Dear Friend Debbie,
I remember as children we both attended Cedar Hill Church of Christ, we both worked in cotton fields and gardens, and graduated High School at Mt. Vernon. We played basketball as Blue Jays with our other friends Rosemary Jobe and Linda Hawkins.
I always loved to talk to her but as life does to us we have not visited but saw each other at our children and grandchildrens ball games.
I feel very blessed that she attended a Gospel Meeting with her nieces on July 16th, at North Oak Church of Christ in Mt. Vernon. She said she got there early and drove around Tanyard Road where we grew up. I was so thankful for that.
We never know when God will call us home and we must be prepared to meet Jesus. Debbie was. We all know if we follow the Bible and are a member of The Lord's Church we will be welcome by Jesus and we can sit with our Loved ones again. You have my Deepest Sympathy. Love
Judy Cox
Monday, July 29, 2024
Prayers and sympathy to all the family. Praying for God’s healing peace.
Paulette Bryant
Monday, July 29, 2024
The family is in my prayer and thoughts
Kelli wilson
Monday, July 29, 2024
Clint, Heather, Layla and Hayden we are so sorry to hear about your mom(Mimi). We are keeping all of you in our prayers and in our heart.
John & Kelli Wilson
Wanda newland
Monday, July 29, 2024
To all the family, I am so sorry for your loss. I graduated with Debbie and spent many a night at her house. I'm ashamed that I let time separate us. I truly will miss her. Wanda covington newland.