Debra Ann Durling, 65, of Valparaiso formerly of Florida passed away Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at Northwest Health Porter. She was born June 17, 1959, in Vero Beach, Florida to Johnny & Vernell (Mathis) Alexa. Debra made her career as a commercial house painter in Florida working for Mark’s Painting. She enjoyed traveling and vacations with her husband, reading, and especially all the good times she was able to spend with her grandchildren.
On September 12, 1992 she married Richard Durling who survives along with children: Shawna Brown of Valparaiso, Megan Driskell of Valparaiso, Richard Durling of California, Melissa Ann Gill of Texas & Shane Bush of Florida, brothers, John Alexa and Danny Alexa; sister, Sandy Alexa; step-siblings: Ted Waters, Tad Waters, Tim Waters, Thomas Waters, Tammy Walker & Todd Waters, and grandchildren: Tristen Brown, Gracelynn Driskell, Matthew Driskell, Lily Driskell, Savannah Bush, Ariya Williams, Blake Jones & Allie Gill. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Following cremation at Angelcrest Crematory a private family celebration of Debra’s life will be held.
GUESTBOOK
To Richard and the kids, we love you guys and our prayers go out to you. Our sister Debbie was greatly loved and will be missed. Although she is gone, she would want y'all to come together to support and love one another. -Tad ,Christine and the kids...
Our siblings carry a piece of our hearts in theirs. Praying for family, friends, and all that feel this loss. -Danny Alexa
Mark and I extend our deepest sympathy to the family. Prayers for comfort during this time of sorrow. Sincerely, Mark and Susan Durling
Ohhh where to start. I have known Debbie all my life. We have had so many good times. I remember all the years I would go out to her and Richard house to watch the kids. Growing up together watching the kids grow, having fun. I remember it all, all the times wed mess around in the grove picking fruit knowing we needed to get back up front for packing. All the laughs, the crying everything. She was special to us. She loved Mom's coconut cream pie. I wish I could make her one. Debbie you will be missed greatly. I pray that God comfort your kids, grandkids, family and Husband as they mourn your loss. I love you all. -Michelle Jordan
Debbie is my sister, not my step sibling and never thought of her or my brother Johnny any less than my brother- Sister. Debbie will be missed greatly. I love you sis. -Ted Waters
To my brother Richard, I know this is one of the hardest times for you, but you are strong, step by step.. Peace be with you and family. Love, -Dawn Durling
Dickie and family, As much as this hurts just remember Deb would want to to remember all the good times you had together. Keep her memories close to your heart and she will always be there. People say it gets easier with time, but it only gets tolerable. I'm so glad Bob and I got to see you and Deb last summer. It was like old times. We wish we were closer to be there and support you and the kids, but remember we always are a phone call away. We love you. RIP Deb we will miss you. -Bob & Carolyn Klotzer
Our Condolences To Richard Durling My (BROTHER IN LAW) That I love like my own brother.That has Ben there for my sister not my step. Sister as long as I can remember almost all my life. and there kids. Shane, Shawna, Richey, Meagan, Melissa, and all grand kids. our prayers go out to you. I'm gonna miss ya Deb, always your Brother Bubba and Tawnia. -Timothy Jon Waters
To Megan and family. I am deeply and truly sorry for your loss. If y'all need anything please let me know. I am here for all of y'all. My deepest condolences Love you all may God be with you. Through this hard time. -Tarian Hepner
To Megan and family. I am deeply and truly sorry for your loss. I am here if y'all need anything please let me know. God will be beside you through this hard time. My deepest condolences to the entire family. -Tarian Hepner
Richard & family, so sorry for your loss, prayers to all @this difficult time, love u Richard, -Jan Mizelle
Megan We are sorry to hear about the passing of your mother. Our condolences to you and your family . Love, -Tina and Jerry Driskell