Deborah "Debbie" Jane Rippon

She was born February 16, 1949 in Watertown, New York to Carl and Bernice (Butterfield) McKinney. She married Charles Rippon on August 17, 1986 in Hannibal, Missouri, he passed away in 1990.

Debbie is also preceded in death by her parents, one granddaughter Trina and one great-granddaughter Gracelyn Ann.

She is survived by her four daughters, Teresa Schmitt of Peoria, Lynne (Darrell) Rendleman of East Peoria, Misty Ward of Pekin, and Brandy (Ryan) Billingsley of East Peoria; 13 grandchildren, Christy, Jeff, Christopher, Erica, Ryan, Tyler, Alyssa, Samantha, Emily, Delaney, Phillip, Andrew, and Alex; six great-grandchildren, Kaden, Paydyn, Cali, Kinzlee, Karson, and Garrett; one brother, William “Bill" (Patricia) McKinney of Michigan; and one niece, Elizabeth Peppin of Michigan.

Debbie's deep Christian faith throughout her life, guided her daily. As a homemaker her whole adult life, she took great joy in caring for her girls and their families and creating a nurturing environment. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, offering them love and support and taking interest in anything they loved.

Debbie's green thumb brought life and beauty to her garden, and she enjoyed canning her harvests and baking for her loved ones. Her creative spirit extended to knitting, sewing, and crocheting. Making blankets, scarves and warm hats for the people she loved. Including preemie babies in the NICU and cancer patients, embodying her selfless nature.

A deeply caring person, Debbie donated her crocheted hats to organizations that prioritized people over profit, reflecting her commitment to compassion and community. Her legacy of love, faith, and generosity will be cherished and remembered by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held Saturday, July 20, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Remmert Funeral Home, East Peoria. The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation. Reverend Dwight Winnett will officiate. Burial will conclude at Fondulac Cemetery, East Peoria.

Memorial contributions may be made in Debbie’s name to TAPS or the American Lung Association.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.RemmertFuneralHome.com.