Debra Diane Johns

Debra Johns, a cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2024, in Ottawa, Kansas. Born on February 25, 1956, in Kansas City, Missouri, she was a person who embodied kindness and compassion, touching the lives of everyone she met. 

Debra gave her life to her family, serving as a loving homemaker and the proud mother of her five children: Connie (Travis) Blackwell, Michael (Melody) Johns, Brian Bruno, David Michael Johns Jr., and Tonya (Brian) Jones.

A woman of great strength and resilience, she worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant in her younger years, and held various warehouse jobs until life’s challenges led her to become disabled. Despite these trials, her spirit shone brightly through her unwavering love for her family.

Her home was a sanctuary of love, where she imparted the values of compassion and kindness to her children. She taught them the importance of remembering one’s roots and supporting each other. Debbie was always there, ready to lend support, often worrying and praying for all those in need. Her generosity knew no bounds; she was known to give the shirt off her back to those less fortunate. 

Debbie’s legacy continues through her loving grandchildren: Dylan Bruno, Kimber Bruno, Jaeden Bruno, Bryson Dent, David Johns III, Brittany Johns, Cloey Johns, Dakota Johns, Brianna Johns, Deserae Smith, Deanna Blackwell, Tyler Blackwell, Hayley Johns, Jacob Petersen, Megan Petersen, Gabe Petersen, Brittany Dixon, Haelie Hansen, Emaley Hansen, Joshua Hansen, Alyssa Jones, Jacob Jones, Christopher McGowin, Matthew McGowin, Nathan McGowin, and Austin McGowin. Each grandchild held a special place in her heart, demonstrating her boundless affection and unwavering support. 

Debra was also blessed with the joy of great-grandchildren: Athea, Ayden, Averie, Athena, Carlie, Tristen, Brooklyn, Pyper, Lucianna, David Johns IV, Daisy, Cooper, Rhett, Infiniti, Ezra, Noah, Beck, Caleigh, Nova, Blake, Charlotte, Ryker, Rush, Natalie, Piper Cherish, Ben, Hope, Blair, and Amelia. These young ones were her whole world, bringing her immense joy and pride. 

She also leaves behind her loving siblings, Ralph, Clara, Margie, John, Barb and Leanna. 

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Maggie Mae (Clark) Raleigh, her father, Ralph Eugene Raleigh, as well as her sons, Brian Bruno and David Michael Johns Jr. and her beloved grandson, Brandon David Bruno Conklin. She is also preceded in death by her siblings: Mary Kay Bischoff, Constance Sue Hilner, and William Finnigan. 

Debra Johns leaves behind a rich heritage of love, kindness, and family values that will continue to resonate through the souls of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her compassionate spirit and dedication to her family will be remembered by all whose lives she touched, accompanying them in cherished memories for years to come.

Memorial contributions may be made directly to her children. 

To share your memories of Debbie or to send a special condolence message to her family, please visit the guestbook below.