Debra Denise Smith

Debra Denise Smith, affectionately known as "DD/DeDe," was born on March 5th, 1957, in San Antonio, Texas at Lackland Air Force Base to George William Hawkins and Arthur Mae "Bunny" Hawkins. Both of her parents proudly served in the United States Air Force. Debra spent her early years in Michigan before the family relocated to Compton, California.

Debra's journey through life led her to marry Basil Smith (deceased), and together they had a daughter named Aja Yadran Smith, lovingly known as "Muffet." After their marriage, Debra moved back home to be with her mother, forging an unbreakable bond between all three women that lasted for over 40 years.

Debra began her career at Rockwell International in El Segundo, California. Later, she pursued her passion for caring for others and became a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), working in Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Riverside County. In her free time, Debra enjoyed cooking, tending the yard, dining out, and, above all, shopping. She treasured going out with her mother and daughter, and she took great joy in hosting and preparing meals for family gatherings and holidays. Debra's vibrant personality and warm heart endeared her to everyone she met. She had a knack for bringing joy and laughter into the lives of those around her. She enjoyed listening to music to include her favorite artist Chaka Khan, Aretha Franklin and many others. She enjoyed dancing, watching YouTube videos and most of all studying the Bible.

Throughout her life, Debra was known for her unwavering love and devotion to her family and friends. She cherished the time spent with her loved ones, creating lasting memories and sharing in their joys and sorrows. Debra's presence brought comfort and reassurance to those in need, and her genuine care for others was felt by all who crossed her path.

Debra was preceded in death by her father, George William Hawkins, her mother, Arthur Mae "Bunny" Hawkins, her brother, Arthur "Anthony" Hawkins, and her sister (infant in Texas).

Those who will forever hold Debra in their hearts include her brother Steve Smith, stepmother, Betty Lawson Hawkins; her sisters-in-law, Nancy Smith and Linda Cunha-Hebert; her nieces: Monique and Ashley. Her aunts: Barbara Adams and Jimmy Lorrain Lewis (Johnny); her uncles: Billy Smith (Sheila) and Ferguson Smith (Linda); her first cousins: Gloria, Antoinette (Tony), Michael, Chris, Zack, Robin, Shari, Zarak, Jennifer, Robert, and Gwen; extended family members: J.S and Barbara Ross, Delfina, Rolando, Leonor, Rosa, Edgar (Tony), Dawn, John, Jeanette, Antoinette Lewis, Gordon, Tammy, Steve (Dino) Migliore; and her beloved fur babies: KoKo, Genny, Fanny, and Charlie. Additionally, she will be deeply missed by all of her friends, family, and most of all, her daughter, Aja "Muffet" Smith.

While Debra's physical presence will be deeply missed, her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her. May she rest in peace, knowing that her love and light will forever shine through her loved ones.

Debra's daughter wants everyone to know, her mother is in the Kingdom with her Aunt Zee who is making her famous fried tripe, her mother Bunny making her famous Gumbo and Debra is making her famous pound cake! She is reunited with her father, mother, brother, grandparents and others who have gone before her.