I want you to know that I am thinking of you all today as you celebrate Debbie's life. I remember when Debbie was born, how happy Carol and Janni were to have another sister after all those boys. She grew up to be a lovely, feisty lady and I will never forget her.

Deb, You will be missed! We enjoyed caring for you. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time.P.s Thank you for allowing us to care for you. -Visiting Angels

Many years ago, I ran into John Thatcher as our paths collided one early morning at Cobmoosa. We were both jogging. We decided to jog together and John shared that he had just found out that Deb had cancer. He was beside himself with sorrow and worry. We ended up sitting by the water praying for Deb. I will never forget that experience. No one could have predicted at that moment the unexpected joys and sorrows of the story that would unfold. I hope you will continually be encouraged by wonderful memories of lives well lived in love of others. Thinking of and praying for you.

Deepest sympathy to the Thatcher family. I worked with Deb also as I was John's secretary at Wyoming Schools.

Dear Deb, even though we did not stay in touch, we had that one thing in common that had me keeping tabs on you and in my thoughts and prayers. It is so sad for those of us left behind but I am so thankful that your battle is over. See you on the other side! Cousin Sher

My sympathy goes out to the Thatcher family....You all have endured such loss and I know you have relied on God's strength and one another to get through difficult times. I first met John when he came to work for Grand Haven Public Schools but I also lived near the family home and met Deb, Rebekah and Grace on many occasions in the community and at Rebeka's track meets (My son ran for Jenison). Your mom was an incredible woman who demonstrated her great faith every day....I know she will be missed greatly.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. May God continue to comfort and bless you all

Aaron, I wish I could be with you and your family today to celebrate the life of your mom. I am very sorry for your loss! This is not a fun time :/She was a joy, a saint, an encouraging presence in so many people's lives. I know I am better man today because of the time I spent with you and your parents! Her peace amidst so many struggles of life set the bar in my life. She was strong. She was joyful. She was wise. It was an honor to have known her. High school is such a formative time in so many peoples including my own. The way she opened up her home to me so often and and so genuinely spoke volumes to me and has left a lasting impression on my life.I'm sorry we have lost touch in recent years, but know I count you a dear friend and brother from afar, and hold you and your family in the highest respects. Grace and Peace friends.-Jake Tracy

I met Deb when she came to teach at Rogers High School. Aaron was just three years old. She was so dedicated to her beautiful boy. We became very close friends and I got to see her feisty, quick wit on a daily basis. We would go to lunch and she would always order an olive burger and extra salty fries. We shared so much about love and life and teaching some of the most troubled but wonderful students. She became a master teacher, challenging her students minds while making them laugh and feel special. She lived for these kids and taught through the illness and death of her beautiful daughter Grace and her amazing husband Dr. John Thatcher. She remained dedicated to her teaching profession even though her own long term illness was getting the best of her physically. Deb, I think back on those years with fondness and will always remember your spunk and energy. You were a gift to so many and will be in our hearts forever.

A The Lord is Near Memory Stone Planter was ordered on February 9, 2016

Although we didn't have the opportunity to know Debra well meeting her and the Thatcher family at Rebekah and Stephen's wedding, one could tell what wonderful people they all are. She will be missed. Our deepest sympathy go to the entire family may God Bless.

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. I will be lifting you all up in prayer during this difficult time. She was a great lady!

Although I know Deb is celebrating her homecoming with family and friends who have gone before her, I will dearly miss my co-troublemaker at family gatherings. I'll do my best to carry on without you, Deb. Perhaps we can resume when we meet again? I hope so.

OBITUARY

Debra Joy Thatcher

January 16, 1961 – February 6, 2016

Cook Funeral and Cremation Services

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