Debra Elaine McGuinty

Born in Rock Island, Illinois, Debra dedicated over 30 years of her life to caring for others as a Registered Nurse. Her love of learning and personal growth led her to earn a Bachelor of Arts in English and become a certified Reiki healer and yoga instructor, embracing holistic practices that reflected her commitment to wellness and balance. A woman of strength and discipline, she achieved a first-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Most recently, Debra poured her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit into her soap-making business, This Soap is Doap.

Debra’s hobbies and passions were as vibrant as her spirit. She found joy in art, calligraphy, hiking, fitness, movies, and caring for her beloved dog, Andiamo. A lifelong learner and spiritual explorer, she was a devoted member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Fort Collins. Debra was also a gifted writer who expressed herself through words and proudly published several books. Her generous heart extended to many charitable causes, including Rocky Mountain Birds of Prey, reflecting her deep love for nature and wildlife.

She is survived by her loving husband, Raymond Cribar; daughters Madeline (Thomas) Owens and Lauren (Tyler) Shimp; four cherished grandchildren, Riley and Reagan Shimp, and Ciaran and Finn Owens; her sister, Denise (Terry) Newell; and nieces Shelby (John) Groot and Natalie Newell. She was preceded in death by her parents, Allen and Dorothy Heinze, and her brother, David Heinze.

Debra will be remembered for her compassion, curiosity, and unwavering generosity. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A funeral service and memorial will be held at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Fort Collins, Colorado, on Friday, December 5th at 10:00 a.m. She will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery in Rock Island, Illinois, alongside her brother David. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition in Debra’s honor.

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