Debbie Sue Willis

Debbie Sue Willis, age 57, of Snellville, Georgia, passed away on Saturday, May 9, 2026. Born with multiple birth defects, including spina bifida, Debbie faced significant physical and emotional challenges throughout her life. She met each one with courage, resilience, and a gentle strength that touched everyone who knew her.

Debbie began her education at the Cerebral Palsy Center in Decatur, but her mother fought tirelessly for her right to attend public school. That determination opened the door for Debbie to thrive in a mainstream classroom environment. Once there, she excelled academically, made many friends, and proved that her challenges would never define her potential.

She later attended Shiloh High School in Gwinnett County, where she discovered a deep love for music and especially enjoyed singing in the school chorus. During her school years, she met her lifelong friend, Margit, whose humor, kindness, and bright spirit helped Debbie experience life with more joy and lightness.

Debbie never allowed her physical challenges to keep her down. She worked as a sales clerk for AAA Auto Club in Tucker for 20 years before a serious medical setback began what became a long and difficult 15‑year journey. Even through that roller coaster of hardship, she fought with every ounce of strength she had until her little body could fight no longer.

Debbie is predeceased by her parents, Elmon and Jo Ann Willis, and by her nephew, Chad Willis. She is survived by her sister, Lynn (Danny) Estoclet of Port Charlotte, Florida; and her brothers Rick (Donna) of Dahlonega, Mark (Ginger) of Tucker, and Jeff (Debbie) of Barnesville. She is also survived by her aunt, Betty Sue Dorton of Loganville; her uncle, Jerry (Joyce) Ferguson of Douglasville; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family would like to acknowledge her close friend Lyn Curan; her devoted home health care nurse, Evalyn, with whom she formed a bond far beyond the norm; as well as “O” and Brian, who each played meaningful roles in her life; as well as a very special friend and co-worker, Dino Jarrin, from AAA. They also extend heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at Northside Hospital’s ICU for the excellent care and compassion shown to Debbie.

Her family chooses to remember her with the words of Shakespeare:

“And though she be but little, she is fierce.”