Deborah Pakis

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Deborah Ann Pakis, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who left this world on March 9th, 2025, at her home in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Born on April 13th, 1961, in Little Rock, Arkansas, Debbie grew up with a deep love for her family and an unwavering kindness that touched everyone she met. She graduated from Benton High School in 1979 before pursuing a career in radiology. In 1981, she graduated from St. Vincent School of Radiologic Technology and later advanced her career as a sonographer. For over 40 years, she worked at St. Joseph’s Hospital, later known as CHI St. Vincent in Hot Springs, where she led her ultrasound team with compassion and grace. She was known as the leader who uplifted others, never speaking ill of anyone, and always leading with love.

Debbie’s greatest joy in life was her family. She was the most incredible mother, always putting the needs of her children, Taylor and Darian, before her own. She was also the most loving “Mama Bear” to her five cherished grandchildren: James and Victoria Otwell, Tynslee Tarver, and Barrett and Walker Blair. They were the light of her life. She wanted nothing more than to watch them grow, and she gave them the most beautiful gift of all- unconditional love.

She married the love of her life, Stephen Pakis, in 2010, and together they shared 15 beautiful years. Their love was pure and deep.

Debbie was a woman of warmth, elegance, and selflessness. She found joy in simple pleasures- summer days at the lake, yearly trips to the beach, local art, good music, and sharing laughter with her dear friends.

A woman of faith, Debbie was a Christian who found peace in knowing her eternal home was in Heaven. Those who love her take comfort in knowing they will one day be reunited.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Thomas Weldon Tarver and Marilyn Hanig Tarver. She is survived by her devoted husband, Stephen George Pakis; her children Taylor Otwell (Abigail) and Darian Blair (Tyler); and her beloved grandchildren. She is also survived by her loving siblings Tammy Tarver Corley (Mike) and Chad Tarver (Kristen); her dear aunt, Cissie Winters and uncle, Bob Tarver; as well as many cherished cousins and friends.

Debbie’s absence leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew her. Life without her feels impossible but her legacy will live on in those who loved her. She will be missed beyond measure and never forgotten.

A celebration of life will be held on March 20th at 5:30 pm at Gross Funeral Home in Hot Springs with an outdoor reception to follow.

Honorary pallbearers are Taylor Otwell, Tyler Blair, Chad Tarver, Brian Winters, Mike Corley, and Tommy David Tarver.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to be made in Debbie’s honor to Not Today Brain Cancer. https://www.nottodaybraincancer.org/donations