1969
Debra
2025
Debra Arndt
December 31, 1969 — November 10, 2025
Debra Lynn (Gillette) Arndt passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025, with her daughter by her side. To know Debbie was to love her. She was a devoted mother, a cherished friend, and a bright presence whose warmth touched everyone around her. Debbie was born on May 27, 1955, in Mendota, Illinois, to Bud and Dolly Gillette. She lived there into early adulthood, before moving to DeKalb. Her smile and laugh were contagious, and she believed in showing up for each day with intention and positivity. Debbie had a natural gift for connecting with others, and even through many years of struggle having COPD, she carried her joyful spirit with grace and strength. Being a mother was the great joy of her life. Debbie embraced her role as a stay-at-home mom, always giving her time freely—chaperoning school events, volunteering wherever she could, encouraging her children to play, explore, and enjoy their chosen sports and hobbies.
She loved being Nana to her two granddaughters, Miley and Lainey. She followed along with their hobbies and watching them grow brought her so much joy. If only more time was available to form those precious bonds.
She was a huge Green Bay Packers fan—always was proud to display their memorabilia in her home, wardrobe, and her car too. As a teen she even helped her older sister, Patsy, babysit Donnie Beebe, long before he became a wide receiver for the team.
She was a wonderful cook, known for hosting birthday and holiday parties, and making each one special for her kids. She happily served her family, many times alongside her mother, Dolly. Debbie worked on a celebrated sales team with her mom, employed by Bullock Garages, and also in many restaurants in her younger years, known widely as an excellent and caring waitress. She later dedicated herself to providing in-home care for the elderly and disabled—work that allowed her kindness and compassion to shine.
Debbie is survived by her daughter Amanda (Jacob) Vaughn of Sterling; her son Corey (Abby) Arndt; and her beloved granddaughters, Miley and Lainey of Sycamore. She is also survived by her brother, Dick Gillette of Florida; her sister, Donna (Kevin) Dean of Alabama; as well as many treasured extended family members and close friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Susan (infant), Patsy Sheridan, and Pam Gillette; her aunts: Marg Williar and Phyllis Williar, and her sister-in-law, Tana Gillette.
Debbie received exceptional care over the last several years from countless doctors, nurses, caregivers, and staff, for whom her family will be forever grateful. True compassionate care is something Debbie knew how to give and was fortunate enough to receive when she needed it most.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 22nd from 1–4 PM at the beautiful Loveland Community House-513 W. 2nd St, Dixon, Illinois. Guests are welcome to wear shades of pink in Debbie's honor. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com
She loved being Nana to her two granddaughters, Miley and Lainey. She followed along with their hobbies and watching them grow brought her so much joy. If only more time was available to form those precious bonds.
She was a huge Green Bay Packers fan—always was proud to display their memorabilia in her home, wardrobe, and her car too. As a teen she even helped her older sister, Patsy, babysit Donnie Beebe, long before he became a wide receiver for the team.
She was a wonderful cook, known for hosting birthday and holiday parties, and making each one special for her kids. She happily served her family, many times alongside her mother, Dolly. Debbie worked on a celebrated sales team with her mom, employed by Bullock Garages, and also in many restaurants in her younger years, known widely as an excellent and caring waitress. She later dedicated herself to providing in-home care for the elderly and disabled—work that allowed her kindness and compassion to shine.
Debbie is survived by her daughter Amanda (Jacob) Vaughn of Sterling; her son Corey (Abby) Arndt; and her beloved granddaughters, Miley and Lainey of Sycamore. She is also survived by her brother, Dick Gillette of Florida; her sister, Donna (Kevin) Dean of Alabama; as well as many treasured extended family members and close friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Susan (infant), Patsy Sheridan, and Pam Gillette; her aunts: Marg Williar and Phyllis Williar, and her sister-in-law, Tana Gillette.
Debbie received exceptional care over the last several years from countless doctors, nurses, caregivers, and staff, for whom her family will be forever grateful. True compassionate care is something Debbie knew how to give and was fortunate enough to receive when she needed it most.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 22nd from 1–4 PM at the beautiful Loveland Community House-513 W. 2nd St, Dixon, Illinois. Guests are welcome to wear shades of pink in Debbie's honor. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Debra Arndt, please visit our flower store.
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