Debra McKenzie Lael

Debra McKenzie Lael, 65, of Hernando, FL, passed away at 10:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 18, 2017 at The Hospice House of Citrus County. Debra was born on June 28, 1951 in Springfield, the daughter of Harry, Sr. and Anna Penny McKenzie. She married Gary Dwain Lael on February 6, 1969. Debra was employed by Humphreys Market, Capitol Bank, the State of Illinois, Dawsons/Handy Andy, Springfield Electric, Delray Beach Public Library and the Central Illinois Mid-Central Council of Carpenters. She volunteered at the Memorial Hospital Burn Unit. While her girls were growing up an annual family vacation was a must. She enjoyed shopping for her grandkids and spending time with them. Debra was an avid reader who also enjoyed going to craft shows, bowling with her girls and friends, and watching NASCAR/Jeff Gordon and the Cincinnati Reds/Johnny Bench. She loved listening to music, especially Elvis Presley. Debra and her husband Gary were fortunate to take several cruises. Her favorite trips were to Hawaii with Gary. Debra always ended her conversations with her girls and husband with "I love you more." The sun rose and set on her grandkids. She loved them all to the moon and back. She was preceded in death by her parents; stepmother, Melba McKenzie; brother, Joe McKenzie and sister, Shirley McKenzie. She is survived by her husband, Gary of Hernando, FL; two daughters, Staci (husband, Joseph) Britz of New Berlin and Heather (husband, Cress) Sisson of Auburn; five grandchildren, Tim Farmer, Eric Britz, Will Farmer, Deb Farmer and Avery Sisson; two brothers, Harry "Sonny" McKenzie, Jr. (companion, Barb Rodgers) of Springfield and William (wife, Mary) McKenzie of Springfield; two nieces, Debi Kay Sykes and Brandi Britton; and five nephews, Bill, Bob, Brian, Eddie and Butch McKenzie. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 26, 2017 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Funeral Ceremony: 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 27, 2017 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: Lael Grandkids College Fund, c/o Gary Lael, United Community Bank, 700 Stevenson Drive, Springfield, IL 62703.