Debbie Smith Glaze

Deborah Ann Smith Glaze, affectionately known as Debbie, passed away on October 11, 2026, at the age of 72. Born in McCormick, South Carolina, to Andrew Elec Smith and Nell Margaret White, Debbie built a life rooted in family, faith, hard work, music, and friendship.

Debbie was known for her independence, quick wit, and no-nonsense approach to life. Though small in stature, she possessed a larger-than-life personality and a heart fiercely devoted to those she loved.

In her early adult years, Debbie established A&A Feed Store and a horse boarding stable in Orange Park, Florida. She then spent more than 30 years in the automotive parts industry, earning the respect of customers and colleagues alike through her knowledge, work ethic, and determination. In retirement, she was her mother's caregiver and found a hobby as a "newbie" coin collector.

A gifted singer and guitar player with a love for traditional country and gospel music, Debbie filled family gatherings with song, laughter, and stories. She also loved camping, boating, horseback riding, cookouts, and time spent with family and friends. A devoted Florida Gators fan, she never missed a game. She could be found in front of the television, cheering, coaching, questioning the referees, and occasionally hurling her trusty “Bad Call Brick” at the screen. She loved a good cookout, a gathering of friends, and a reason to pull out the guitars.

More than any accomplishment, Debbie treasured her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, neighbor, and friend. Family adventures included camping in Osceola National Forest, hunting in the winter, and boating on Doctor's. Lake in the summer. Horses were a lifelong passion, with countless memories made at Rainbow Riders, Clay Mavericks, and the Florida Sheriffs Boys Ranch.

Debbie is survived by her daughters, Katina Ann Glaze Phillips (James) and Georgette Diane Glaze (Jamie Nell Beck); stepdaughters, Judith Kathleen Glaze Olsen and Jacqueline Marie Glaze Levan; grandchildren Jacob Elexander Phillips (Kaley), Elizabeth Phillips (Brandon Tetstone), Gibson Beck-Glaze, and Reece Beck-Glaze; niece Amanda Monkoski and child, Happenstance McNair; great-grandsons James Ethan Phillips and Owen Peter Phillips; brother Andrew "Boots" Smith; and sister Patricia McMillan.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Andrew Elec Smith and Nell Margaret White; siblings Mary Kay Thompson, A.J. Smith, and Gloria Stuart; and former husband Duel Roy Glaze.

Debbie lived a full and meaningful life that touched far more people than her family could ever count. Through her work, friendships, music, and unmistakable personality, she left an impression wherever she went. The stories, memories, and lessons she leaves behind reach across generations and communities, making it impossible to fully measure her impact. Her family is deeply grateful for the many friends, neighbors, coworkers, and loved ones who cared for her throughout her life and loved her unconditionally.

The family takes comfort in knowing Debbie is reunited with loved ones who have gone before her and is now in the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Those who knew her well suspect Heaven is running more efficiently since her arrival.

Family and friends are invited to attend services on Monday, October 19, 2026, at Holly Hill's Eternal Gardens in Middleburg, Florida. Family receiving begins at 9:30 a.m., visitation at 10:00 a.m., funeral service at 11:00 a.m., and graveside service at 12:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life gathering will follow at the Middleburg Civic Association.

In honor of Debbie's beloved Florida Gators, attendees are encouraged to wear orange and blue as they gather to celebrate a life marked by love, strength, faith, laughter, and unwavering authenticity. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. 💙🧡