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 at11:00a.m. in the Peoples Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Roy Moore, Ministers David and Bethany Jennings officiating. Memorialization will be by cremation with cremains to be scattered Monday, January 4th at 11:00a.m. in the Blue Springs Recreational Park. All arrangements are entrusted to the Caring Staff at Peoples Funeral Home of Marianna.
