Debra Jo Eden

Debra Jo Eden, 73, passed away peacefully after a short but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, surrounded by the love of her family. Though her time with us feels far too short, her life was filled with kindness, faith, and a deep devotion to the people she loved.

Debra was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and child of God who spent her life caring for others. For 53 years she shared a loving marriage with her husband, William Eden, who survives. Their story began in childhood, as their mothers were best friends, and their lifelong friendship grew into a beautiful and lasting marriage.

She was a proud and loving mother to her two daughters, Shawna Lewis (Matthew Lewis) and Heather Eden (companion Tommy Burton). Her greatest joy in life was being “Grand Mommy” to her beloved grandsons, Eli and Ethan Lewis, whom she absolutely adored. Even as her health declined, she made it a point to spend special time with them—reading stories, playing games, and reminding them often that “Grand Mommy loves you.”

Debra was someone who never forgot a birthday, holiday, or special occasion. Family and friends could always count on receiving a thoughtful card or gift from her, often delivered with one of the many bags of presents she delighted in sharing. She lived her life putting others first and making sure people knew they were loved.

Faith was the cornerstone of Debra’s life. She was highly involved growing up at New Castle First Church of the Nazarene and later attended Spiceland Church of the Nazarene in New Castle, where she played the piano. After moving to Kokomo, she became a member of First Church of God, where she faithfully served by teaching Sunday school with her friend Shirley Sellers for ten years and helping with many church events. Many will fondly remember her for the baked beans she often brought to church gatherings.

Debra was also a devoted homemaker who lovingly supported her daughters, volunteering and helping with school events whenever she could. She was very close to her daughters and enjoyed going to the movies with them or meeting them for lunch. She made sure to call her daughters and friends almost daily, something that will be dearly missed.

Debra carried a joyful spirit and was known by many as a positive and caring person who truly did not have a mean bone in her body. She treasured her friendships deeply and is survived by her dear friends: her cousin Sarah Rihm, her childhood best friend Karen Bimber, and her close friend Cindy Miller.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Rosemary New; her stepfather, Ottis New; the grandparents who lovingly raised her, Sarah Myrtle Smith and Guy T. Smith; and her siblings, Tom Smith, Bernice Shelton, and Phyllis Hicks.

Debra is also survived by her half-brothers, Tony New and Tracy New.

In her final months, despite her illness, she continued to create meaningful memories with her family—moments that will be cherished forever. One especially treasured memory was celebrating an early Easter together so she could experience one more holiday with her family. Even as her health declined, Debra continued thinking of others, asking that Valentine’s and Easter gifts be made ready for her grandsons, Eli and Ethan. Her kindness, thoughtfulness, and love touched countless lives.

Though her family’s hearts are heavy, they find comfort in knowing that heaven received a truly special soul.

Services will be held at South Creek Church of God in Kokomo on March 21, 2026. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 10:30 a.m. Debra will be laid to rest immediately following the funeral at Albright Cemetery.