Debra “Deb” Harper, 67, of Ocala, Florida, passed away on Friday, February 14, 2025, at Cates Hospice House.

Born in Gainesville, Florida, Debra was one of four children born to Carl and Marion Leverette. In 1989, she married Johnny Harper, and they shared over 30 years of love and happiness together, before being separated by Johnny’s passing in 2023. Deb had various careers in her lifetime, including training command dogs, and being a manager in a medical equipment facility. Her love of dogs led to a love and passion for raising Great Danes. She will always be remembered for her strength, her tenacity, and her fierce love for her family and friends.

Debra is survived by her 3 daughters: Misty, Amber (Joseph), and Melody. She had 5 grandchildren: Lindsey, Justin, Timothy, Benjamin, and Rheanna; and 4 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her mother and 2 siblings, nieces and nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father, Carl; her brother Douglas; her daughter Meranda; and her loving husband, Johnny.

Services for Debra will be held Friday, February 21, 2025 at Hiers Baxley Funeral Home in Ocala, Florida. Visitation will be from 1-2, with services beginning at 2:00 PM. She will be laid to rest in Matthews Cemetery in Fairfield, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Northwest Florida Great Dane Rescue. www.nwflgdr.com

Memorial Keepers (1)

Debra A. Harper