Deborah Boyd

Deborah Boyd, a brave and deeply loving soul, passed away on December 4, 2025, at the age of 75. Born August 25, 1950, in Fort Worth, Texas, Deborah entered the world with a warmth and gentleness that never left her. The cherished daughter of Reble and Aleta Thomas, she grew up in Tahoka, Texas, grounded by deep family roots and strong values.

In 1967, she married William Kent Shepherd, and they had three beautiful children: Tish, Kris, and Jill. Deborah’s heart belonged to her family. Her children and grandchildren brought her endless joy, and being their “Grammy” was one of the greatest blessings of her life. Her grandkids were truly the apple of her eye— she adored them, encouraged them, and held each of them close to her heart. Her love for her family was the kind that wrapped around you and stayed with you, steady and unconditional.

In her early years, Deborah poured her creativity and care into her work in cosmetology, both behind the chair and as an instructor at Jessie Lee’s Hair Institute. Later in life, she transitioned into the farming industry.

Deborah’s life was marked by remarkable resilience. She faced a long and difficult cardiac health journey, as well as surviving breast cancer. She faced each challenge with courage, dignity, and quiet, steady strength no matter what physical limitations she faced.

In 1992, she married Bill Boyd, and together they shared 33 years of marriage — a partnership grounded in devotion, understanding, and steadfast support.

A longtime resident of Lubbock, Texas, Deborah was known for her gentle spirit and her generous heart. She was an avid Texas Tech fan, a devoted gardener, and loved cooking for her family – especially Grammy’s famous brownies! Deborah loved attending workout classes, where she formed countless friendships. God was the centerpiece of how she lived her life and spent countless years as a member of the Wolfforth Methodist Church. Deborah will be remembered for her sincerity and the lasting impact she had on her family and friends. Her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, yet her spirit continues in the lives she touched and the love she gave so freely.

Deborah is preceded in death by her parents, Reble and Aleta Thomas, and her stepchildren, Blake and Blair Boyd. Survivors include her loving husband, Bill; her children, Tish Kallas (Gust), Jill Lewis (Lee), and Kris Shepherd (Kyra); her grandchildren, Reble Shepherd (Courtney) and great-granddaughter Scarlett, Riley Shepherd, Hudson, and Campbell Carper, Whitney Weber (Robert); and great-granddaughter, expected soon. Deborah is also survived by her stepchildren Byron Boyd (Carol), Bobby Boyd (Kara). She is survived by her sister, Georgia Clem (Mark), and brother Joe Thomas; along with many family members and friends who will carry her memory forward with gratitude and love.

Those who knew Deborah will remember her not only for her strength and grace, but for the warmth she brought into the world. Her legacy lives in the hearts of all who loved her.