Debra "Debbie" Kay Johnson

Debra “Debbie” Kay Johnson, age 74, passed away on October 17, 2026. A devoted mother, grandmother, caregiver, and friend, Debbie lived a life defined by compassion, quiet strength, and unwavering love for those around her.

Born in Shipshewana, Indiana, Debbie was the daughter of William “Bill” Henry Ulery and Elizabeth “Betty” Louise (Troyer) Ulery. She was raised alongside her brothers, Greg and Kirk, and graduated from Decatur Community High School in Decatur County, Kansas. She later completed her Licensed Practical Nurse training in Wichita, Kansas, preparing for a career centered on caring for others.

In her early career, Debbie worked proudly as an LPN, bringing both skill and kindness to her patients. As her family grew, she chose to devote herself fully to her loved ones, dedicating her life to raising her children, caring for her husband during his health struggles, and nurturing countless children through her in-home daycare for nearly twenty years. Whether caring for family, friends, or the children entrusted to her, Debbie's nurturing spirit touched generations of lives.

On August 30, 1975, she married the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Earl Johnson, after meeting him in Wichita. Their marriage was built on love, devotion, and partnership, and they remained faithfully by each other's side until Bob's passing in 2014.

Debbie lived her faith through action. She was a longtime member of Metropolitan Baptist Church, where she and Bob worshiped together for many years. She viewed motherhood, caregiving, and service to others as her greatest ministry, sharing God's love through simple acts of kindness and selflessness every day.

Outside of caring for others, Debbie found joy in many treasured interests. She and her beloved Saint Bernard, Halo, participated in therapy dog activities through Victory in the Valley, bringing comfort and companionship to others. She was also active in the Our Diamond Miss pageant community and could always be found enjoying her favorite Hallmark movies whenever the opportunity arose. Throughout her life, her Saint Bernards, especially Halo, Angel, and Bobby Joe, held a special place in her heart.

More than anything, Debbie cherished her family. Her greatest pride and joy were the relationships she built and the love she shared with her children and grandchildren. Her legacy lives on in the lives she nurtured, the kindness she extended, and the countless memories she created.

Debbie is survived by her brothers, Greg (Shirley) Ulery of Goddard, Kansas, and Kirk (Brenda) Ulery of Oberlin, Kansas; her son, Michael Johnson of Wichita, Kansas; her daughter, Jenifer (Anthony) McCubbins of Kechi, Kansas; her beloved grandchildren, Logan Johnson, Austin McCubbins, Kara McCubbins; and her in-laws, Patricia (Johnson) Munson and Linda (Johnson) Stiles. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Bob” Johnson; her parents, Bill and Betty Ulery; and her infant brother, Bradley.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Harry Hynes Hospice, directly or through her daughter, Jenifer McCubbins, in honor of Debbie's life of compassionate service to others.

Debbie will be remembered for her gentle heart, steadfast devotion to her family, and the countless lives she touched through a lifetime of caring for others. Her love remains a lasting gift to all who were blessed to know her.

A Graveside Service for Debbie will be held at Lakeview Cemetery in the Garden of Lakes 3rd, 12100 E. 13th Street N., Wichita, Kansas 67206, on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 2:00 pm.