Deborah Kraybill

Deborah L. Kraybill, 71, of Champaign passed away Tuesday (Nov. 28, 2023) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Debbie was born Aug. 12, 1952, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Harold and Maralyn Chew. She lived in several different places throughout her childhood including Laredo, Texas and Misawa, Japan. She eventually landed in Champaign, after her father retired from Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul.

She married Daniel Kraybill of Champaign on July 12, 2002. He survives. 

Debbie was a long-time active member of the Junior Women’s Club and the Champaign-Urbana Theatre Company. She loved to sing, act and dance. She would become very well-known in the local theater/performing arts community. She was a very proud supporter of different types of local arts and was a lifelong animal lover and advocate. She was known for her love of unique jewelry and fashion. Debbie worked in office support for the University of Illinois for many years before retiring in 2019. 

She is survived by her husband, Daniel Kraybill; daughter, Angeline Rice; son, Timothy (Lanata) Rice; four grandchildren, Ethan and Devin Rice and Owen and River Kraybill.; two stepsons, Ross (Jessica) Kraybill and Brandon (Katrina) Kraybill. Her brothers, Donald Chew and William Chew also survive. She is also survived by her beloved cats.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Gregory Chew. 

A public visitation will be held on Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Owens Funeral Home in Champaign, with a Memorial Service at 5 p.m. A private burial will be held the next morning in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Champaign.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Champaign County Humane Society or CatsNap.org
 

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