Peoples Funeral Home | Marianna, FL

Obituary For Miss Debra Orlane Jennings

Love the Children . . .

Debra Orlane Jennings was born on Saturday, July 12, 1952, to Leo and Emma Mae Jennings. She served tirelessly as a scholar, educator, and spiritual leader with a strong belief in the power of the universe.

Debra graduated from Union Grove High School in Greenwood, Florida and earned a Master’s Degree in Special Education from the University of West Florida in Pensacola Florida. She was employed as an Education Professional by the United States Air Force, United States Department of Education, and Office of the Secretary of Defense. Debra traveled the world living much of her life outside of the US during her career: Japan, Germany, England, Bermuda, and in the US Puerto Rico and DC area/Mitchellville, Maryland. She retired with over 42 years of federal service, an unusual and highly commendable achievement. She is most well known for her genuine love and care for children and especially her siblings with whom she had a very loving and warm relationship for many enjoyable years. However, her true legacy was to “take care of all the children”; whether children of relatives, friends or strangers.

At the age of 68, Debra’s carnal life ceased, and she commenced her incorporeal life journey for eternity. She leaves to cherish her fond, loving and wonderful memories: Brother, Drexie “Drex” Jennings of Copperas Cove, Texas; Sister, Beverly “Bev” Jennings of Jacksonville, Florida; sister-in-law Hazel Jennings of Dothan, Alabama, Regina Madison (Virgil Lane) of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Dayyan Jennings of Tampa, Florida; Anisa “Desiree” Jennings (Cantwell Carson) of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; Jasmin Joi Jennings of Rincon, Puerto Rico, Sharlette Jennings of Copperas Cove, Texas; Conrad Jennings of Killeen Texas; David and (Bethany) Jennings of Sillsbee, Texas; Kent Jennings of Copperas Cove Texas; Andres Ringer (Kailyn) of Virginia; and the numerous other family members, friends, and others whom she loved; and who loved her.

Other people in Debra’s life whose relationships she treasured, include: Ann Harris, Vanessa Sims, Melvin Sims, Larry Ringer, Patricia Hill, Paige (Pete) Kimbell, Jazmin Pometto (Richard) and Jade Kineas.

Debra was preceded in death by her parents, Emma Jennings and Leo Jennings and brother Larry Jennings.

The family gives a special thank you to the Peoples Funeral Home staff, family, friends and others who have reached out to extend their condolences and support. In honor of Debra, contributions to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, for Memorial Giving www.StJude.org/donatetoday, at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 will be much appreciated.

A celebration of Debra’s life will be held Saturday, January 2nd at 11:00a.m. in the Peoples Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Roy Moore, Ministers David and Bethany Jennings officiating.

A public viewing will be held prior to the funeral services on Saturday, Jan. 02, 2021 from 9:30 am to 10:30 am in the chapel of Peoples Funeral Home.

Memorialization will be by cremation with cremains to be scattered Monday, January 4th at 11:00 a.m. in the Blue Springs Recreational Park. All arrangements are entrusted to the Caring Staff at Peoples Funeral Home of Marianna.

Those that are unable to attend may view services thru Zoom at the link listed below:

https://us04web.zoom.us/j/79830385922?pwd=Z0ZKblhWY3FGenA2OWIrRHRXUnJPQT09

Meeting ID: 798 3038 5922

Passcode: ZYY5Vz

Guest Book

We were so saddened to learn of Debra's passing. She was an esteemed co-worker who added strength and truth to every situation, for children in her care and for her colleagues. She will be deeply missed. Rest in Peace, dear Debra. Dick and Pat Saddlemire

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I met Debra when she was with OSEP and learned much from her. She was always passionate about improving the system on behalf of children with disabilities and their families. May her memory and work live on in all who had the privilege to meet her and those who benefited from her work.

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I worked with Deb at DoED for a few years. She was a delight to work with and always brought a great sense of humor and a joyful perspective to our work and personal conversations. She will be missed, but her light will carry on and bless our memories. Vanessa Santos Krejci

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I am so sorry to hear of Debra's passing. I hope your memories will provide you comfort in the days to come. Carolyn, a DoD colleague

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I am very sad to hear of Debra's passing. She and I worked together at DoD for the past three years. Her huge smile, joyous spirit, and positive light will always be remembered. I send prayers and peace to her family and loved ones. Joyce Austin, DoD Colleague.

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I was deeply saddened to hear the news of Debra's passing. Although I only knew her for a short time as my co-worker at DoD, she made a tremendous impact on my life. My last conversation with her was on November 30th. She was happy to share about her plans to relocate back home to Florida. This woman of God will be greatly missed and will always have a special place in my heart. RIP My dear Friend. Love, Nichele Murphy

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I was deeply saddened to learn of my dear cousin's passing. My prayer is that her brother, Drexie, and her sister, Beverly, are forever covered and protected as they adjust to a major life moment. Debra Jennings will continue to live on in our hearts and minds. She will always be that gentle breeze that stirs on a quiet calm day. Respectfully submitted by Martha (Williams) Henry, daughter of Bessie Jennings Williams ForeverJennings ❤️FamilyMatters🙏🏽

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I was stunned and deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my Union Grove High School classmate, Debra Jennings. I have fond memories of her and over the years most of her classmates have kept in touch. Debra was an invested and integral part of the camaraderie formed in our youth. We texted early in December. My condolences to family and friends. She will be forever missed. Classmate Jackie Collins Robinson

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The Williams Family: As Alberta stated We Share In your Loss And Pain. Praying to God that your Hearts be Filled with the wonderful Memories of Joyful Times You spent Together. Please know that YOU are in the Thoughts and Prayers of our Entire Family. Love, Jennie Williams

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I was deeply saddened to hear about Debra's passing. We met through work but kept in touch over the years after she left the Department of Education and ultimately retired. Debra was dedicated to public service and to improving the lives of children with disabilities. She would bring back tokens from her many travels and I still have in my work lamp a dream catcher she brought me from her tribal work in the southwest. We spoke just before Thanksgiving about our blessings. I am thankful our paths crossed and to call her friend. May her light continue to shine through all she did and loved. May her memory help heal those who now grieve for her loss. Kala Surprenant

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From the Williams Family . We share in your lost no your pain . Remember Jonn 14 Let not your heart be trouble ye believe in God , believe also in me . No she resting in her deeds she show in her journey in her life time . Alberta milton.

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I am so deeply saddened to hear that Deb has passed. Such a big heart, such a great laugh, always willing to both learn and teach, Deb's light always shone. We spent productive work hours together early on, but also would grab lunch and catch up when we hadn't seen each other in a while. Knowing that she would be willing to say a prayer for you and to send light your way helped lift any burden. We spoke of grief, of friendship, of family, and of life after work. I will keep her memory bright and now send her light. Frank Lopez, Wash.DC

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Debra and I grew up as cousins; the offspring of loving sisters and brothers. We grew up in open space and as children we often ran and played on big grass lawns; chased lightning bugs in the dark, and glazed upon clusters of bright stars night after night. We dreamed and visualized life beyond our little hometown. We were taught to love and embrace one another and to be kind and respect others and ourselves; that respect-like your way-must be earned because nothing is free. With repositories of ancestral wisdom and a strong spiritual foundation, we grew up and set out on our career paths; a path that took Debra far away from home. She strived, thrived, and accomplished beyond the expected and leaves a legacy that will inspire and galvanize her nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends for generations. I will miss My Beautiful Cousin. One of the best gifts I ever received is back scratcher which, of course, was from Debra. Doris "Nadine" Dickens

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•We were very sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family will always be in our prayers during these tough times. We know that nothing can take away the pain that you are feeling right now, but we just want you to know you will always be in our thoughts." Judson & Velda Brunson

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I am really sadden to hear about the passing of my cousin Deb. We use to play together when ever I came to visit. My heart is breaking. Ona Bryant Clarke. Lakeland, fl.

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To the Jennings family: It is with deep sadness, of learning of the death of Debra. My fondness and loving memories, of how Debra knew how to bring a smile to my face, and lifting my spirit up with joy and happiness. Stephon and I are really going to miss our spiritual confidant. We both feel good knowing that we have an honorary prayer warrior in paradise, looking out for her sister and brother. We love you dearly, Khalilah and Stephon Shakir.

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We extend our deepest sympathy to the Jennings family. May you find peace through the Lord Jesus Christ in the days to come. Dessie Patterson-Mathews; Diann Patterson-Hayes

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To know I had a cousin to turn to...when I was blue. A cousin who was there for me. It made the problems that I faced much easier to endure. And, when I was feeling joyful, taking everything in stride. It was uplifting to share laughter with my cousin by my side. Though words are never enough, the message that I send is that I felt blessed to have had you, as my cousin and my friend. Love, your cousin, Ethel(Mike) Dickens-Daniels

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I'm hurting in my heart my cousin, my friend my family. I'm in disbelieve, she have such a beautiful heart, she always there for everyone. She will always listen and give very good advice. I will miss my cousin until we meet again. Love you cousin Debrea.

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Debra, always a gentle soul, soft spoken, encouraging. You'll be truly missed. After hearing your decision to retire I was looking forward to spending some cousin time with you. May your soul be in peaceful bliss. Until we meet again.❤

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Dearest Soror and Jennings Family, I Extend my deepest sympathy to you all. Debra was truly a giving; encouraging person. I remember the many times she encouraged me during my years at UWF when I needed it the most. May God continue to strengthen and comfort you all. Love, Ruby Sylvester

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Debra has been a great cousin to me since I am the baby of the bunch. You can feel the love and encouragement especially when it came to education. I will miss you very very much. I know right now Aunt Emma, Gran-Gran, Aunt Essie, and many other family members is rejoicing. God knows what is best.

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To Deb's family, I am deeply sorry for your loss. Deb was a colleague and friend, and even after she moved to another office, we kept in touch from time to time. I will miss her.

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I am deeply sorry for your family's loss. Deb's memory will endure and thoughtful and loving friend. We pray for love and strength to encircle and support your family during this difficult time.

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My deepest condolences for your loss. Deb was a wonderful co-worker. I loved the happy energy she brought to every encounter. She will be missed.

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To Deb's family and friends - Deb and I worked together for several years. We joked with one another about our obsessive "note taking" skills and always knew we could count on one another. She was such a kind soul and was so good to so many. She treated others' children as her own family. I was thrilled when she shared with me the news of her retirement - she gave so much of herself to her work for so many years - I hoped she would enjoy this next phase of her life. So very sorry for your loss.

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To be absent from the body, is to be present with the Lord. Cousin Debra, will be greatly. LaDawn Brunson-Cunningham & Family

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I traveled with Deb as a colleague at OSEP and spent time with her at her sister's home in Florida as s pal. We spent girls' days getting massages and she was Mama #2 to my daughter, Katy. She leaves a void that cannot be filled. The world has lost a bright point of light and is darker for the loss. Rest In Peace, my friend, and may God hold you in His light until we are together again.

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I cannot believe Deb is gone, but I know, based on the life she lived and how much she loved, especially the children of the world, that she is in a wonderful place with loved ones. Deb was like a big sister to me at work (OSEP) and outside of work. I will miss the conversations, laughs and stories we shared. May Bev and the entire family find comfort and strength in the wonderful memories Deb left to cherish. God bless you all. Gone but never forgotten❤

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I'm devastated to learn or Deb's passing. She was among the kindest people I've ever known. She was intentional about nurturing relationships and stayed in touch even after she left OSEP - she checked in on me and my children regularly. The world is a better place because you were here, Deb. My deepest condolences to your family and especially your sisters whom you loved dearly.

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Deb sat next to me at work. She was a dear friend and colleague. She could sense when you needed comforting. When my grandson visited she treated him special and he felt comfortable with her. She could see through to your soul. Bless you Deb and thanks for sharing your life with me.

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My deepest condolences for your unimaginable loss. I was privileged to work with Deb for many years at OSEP. Her dedication to her work and devotion to those she served was of the highest order. Deb felt deeply and provided support to those around her, like it was a calling. She freely shared her spiritual gifts. Any coworker with a headache, cold, or just having a bad day, benefitted from Deb's various healing methods. She was the embodiment of pure, kind, generosity. I will carry her in my heart always. She will be missed by many.

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I am so very very sorry to hear of Deb's passing. She was the most wonderful person who I first met when I started working at OSEP. She faithfully mentored me there and taught me how to work within the system. I loved her dearly. She was not only a co-worker but a true friend. My deepest condolences to her family and especially to her sister, Bev, who I came to know through her. She will be missed by everyone who she touched.

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So sorry for your lost but it something we all have to do God knows when ours time come .

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Peoples Funeral Home | Marianna, FL