Deborah Jo Wilson

Deborah (Debbie) Jo Wilson peacefully passed away on July 4, 2024, at the age of 63, surrounded by her loving family. Debbie was born on September 8, 1960, in Caldwell, ID, to Vera and Don Shaner. After graduating from Ontario High School in 1979, she went on to earn her Associate's degree from TVCC.

Debbie's professional journey was as diverse as her spirit. Throughout her life, she held various roles, including farm partner, cook, TVCC maintenance staff, front-line administrator, testing coordinator, and a position at the Small Business Development Center. Each job she took on reflected her dedication and versatility.

In 1980, Debbie met Kenny Wilson at the Palomino Bar. Despite neither of them being drinkers, a Coca-Cola brought them together. Kenny fell in love with Debbie after buying her a drink, but their introduction included a humorous mix-up when Kenny's jacket velcro accidentally stuck to Debbie's shirt. This lighthearted beginning marked the start of a lifelong partnership and 43 wonderful years of marriage.

Debbie and Kenny were blessed with four wonderful children. There was always a playful jest about the timing of their children’s births in relation to hunting trips. Melodie was born on October 31, 1982, a Halloween baby who arrived two weeks late via c-section, just as Debbie had hoped to avoid. Jake followed on May 9, 1986, entering the world with a bit of a scare but turning out just fine. Naomi arrived on April 19, 1991, and Billy, a surprise gift from another hunting trip, was born on June 15, 1994. Additionally, the Wilson family welcomed an unofficial son, Sam Alwes, who became an integral part of their family.

Family was at the heart of Debbie’s life. She cherished every moment spent with her seven grandchildren: Shannon, Kaylee, Mia, Tyla, Alayna, Aizlynn, and Teagan. This year, she had the joy of welcoming two great-grandchildren, Jessica Alwes and Wyatt Scott, into the world.

After dedicating nearly 20 years to TVCC, Debbie retired in 2017 to focus on her family. Her love and devotion to her family were unwavering, and she created countless cherished memories with them.

Debbie was predeceased by her father, Don Shaner, her brothers Dale and Karl Shaner, her grandparents, her uncle Kenny Everett, and several aunts and uncles. She is survived by her beloved husband, Kenny Wilson; her mother, Vera Shaner; her sister, Jeannie Gordon; her children, Melodie, Jake, Naomi, and Billy; her adopted son, Sam Alwes; and her grandchildren, great grandchildren, along with numerous nieces, nephews and other family.

We will celebrate Debbie's life and bid her farewell at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 848 Owyhee Ave. Nyssa, OR, on Friday, July 19, at 11:00 am.

Debbie’s legacy of love, humor, and dedication will live on in all who knew her. May she rest in peace.