December 17, 1948 – August 19, 2026
Deborah “Debbie” Ruth Blocker, 77, passed away on August 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on December 17, 1948, Debbie was the beloved daughter of the late Francis Robert Kurtz and Ruth Estelle Kurtz (Marquart). She was a devoted wife to Wallace “Wally” Blocker; a loving mother to Jeff Blocker (Terri) and Lauri (Brad) Moncla; and a cherished grandmother to Colby, Lea, Anna, and Ryan.
Debbie was the dear sister of Jeannie (Philip) Wolf, Joy Rice, David (Debby) Kurtz, Denise (the late Brian) Bullerdieck, Lynn (Mike) McMurran, and the late Steven Kurtz. She was also a beloved aunt, cousin, and friend to many. She was a quiet source of strength to those fortunate enough to know her and will be remembered for the love, kindness, generosity, patience, and faith she shared throughout her life.
What mattered most to Debbie was being a loving wife and mother. Family was at the center of her life, and she took particular pride and joy in her children and grandchildren. Her grandchildren held an especially important place in her heart, and she treasured the time they spent together—celebrating important milestones, playing games, sharing laughter, or simply enjoying everyday moments. She created memories with them that they will carry for a lifetime.
Debbie was known for being a good listener—someone who could always be counted on to be present, compassionate, and understanding. She had a quiet strength and a generous spirit, giving freely of herself without seeking attention or recognition. She found great meaning in helping others and was a dependable, comforting presence for the people she loved. Debbie was also known for her wit. She may not have been the first to speak, but when she did, people listened—because what she had to say was often thoughtful and funny at the same time.
Her life was deeply rooted in her Catholic faith. Her faith was not simply something she believed, but something she lived through the way she cared for her family, served those around her, and faced life’s challenges. It remained a source of strength and comfort throughout her life.
Debbie was proud of her career and her role in running the family business. Away from work, she found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed traveling, bird-watching, attending theater performances, and playing cards and other board and word games—especially when she could share them with her family and grandchildren.
She had a deep love for animals and nature, from the pets that shared her home to the birds and wildlife she enjoyed watching. She appreciated the beauty of a sunset and the peace she found in the natural world around her.
Her presence will be deeply missed, but the love she gave, the example she set, and the memories she created will remain with her family and all who knew her. While those who loved Debbie grieve her passing, they find comfort in the Catholic faith that sustained her throughout her life and in the promise of eternal life.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Monica, Shamrock, and Lorie of Debbie’s hospice team for the compassionate and loving care they provided during her final days.
Funeral Services
Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Friday, August 28, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at East Lawn Funeral Home in Kingsport, Tennessee.
An additional visitation will be held on Saturday, August 29, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at St. Dominic Catholic Church, followed by the Funeral Mass at 1:00 p.m. Burial will immediately follow at East Lawn Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children in Debbie’s memory.
