Debra Renee Parler

Born Debra Renee Tidwell in Canyonville, Oregon on October 16, 1958 to her parents Lyle and Bonnie Tidwell, she went on to graduate high school from Holly Hill in South Carolina and attended Winthrop College. She didn't finish her dream of majoring in psychology as she followed her heart and chose instead to get married and start her family.

Debbie met the love of her life, Jean Parler, through his sister Naomi. They only went on one real date before they were married. Debbie traveled to Michigan, where Jean was stationed, accompanied by Jean's mother for about ten days; it was love at first sight.

She spent the next 37 years at Jean’s side raising their children Brad and Rachelle.

Among a lifetime of special memories, her children will never forget the way she celebrated their birthdays. She was a wonderful party planner, picking a special theme and running with it to the max - always making them feel special.

Debbie was an incredibly hard worker – dedicating much of her life to taking care of others with a true generosity of spirit. Just as Christ asks us all to love and care for one another – she truly lived it out!

Her work as a home health aide, for Empowerment Options, allowed her to take care of those in the community that needed a little extra attention and love. She also worked for Meals on Wheels – coordinating volunteers and delivering meals, friendship and words of encouragement to those that needed it the most.

Debbie was a warm soul who enjoyed serving others and connecting with people on a very special level.

And boy, was she creative! Debbie loved to crochet – a hobby she quickly renewed upon learning of her first grandchild, Celeste. Her family and friends can attest to her skill and her thoughtfulness in sharing her beautiful creations with friends, family and those in the community that needed something beautiful and handmade in their lives.

Debbie was a Godly woman. She was a prayer warrior and a devoted daughter of Christ with a true servant’s heart.

She returned home to our Heavenly Father’s arms on December 13, 2015 at 4:35am. There, she was reunited with her brother, Scott Tidwell.

Her spirit is carried on by her husband Jean Parler, parents Lyle and Bonnie Tidwell, son Brad Parler (wife Amanda and beloved grandchildren Celeste, Benjamin, Alissa and Eva), daughter Rachelle Parler (beloved Granddog Lilah) and her sister Connie Cox - as well as many friends - too numerous to list, but not forgotten.

Debbie’s celebration of life will be held at the Conroe Community Church (C3 next to Incredible Pizza) on Saturday, December 19th, 2015 at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for each one of us to do something kind for a stranger; perhaps a Veteran or a first responder, in our community today (just as she would!) and to make a donation in Debbie’s name to ‘Refuge: Trauma and Counseling Center’ at http://refugetraumacenter.com.