Debra Ann Hays

Debra Ann Hays passed away September 30, 2020 in Mexia at the age of 72.  Graveside services will 4:00 p.m., Sunday, October 4, 2020 in the Mexia Cemetery with Pastor James Deichler officiating. 

Debra was born March 8, 1948 in Mexia, Texas to Ray A. and Georgia Fisher Steele.  She grew up in Newby (near Jewett) and graduated from Leon High School.  She was a homemaker and the loving mother of three children, Lynn, John Paul, and Charlie Ray.  Debra was also a devoted wife to her husband, Paul Barrett.  Her family was her pride and joy; she was happiest when her home was filled with all her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  She, like most grandmothers, dearly loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren and cherished her time with them.   

Debra was rather quiet, but she had a big heart.  She was an avid animal lover, any strays that happened along, she gave them a home.  She loved her animals, and, in recent years, she thoroughly enjoyed their donkey.  One of the highlights of her day was a trip to the country to feed him.  

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Georgia Steele; and brother, George Ray Steele.

Debra is survived by her husband, Paul Barrett; children, Lynn Millisor and husband, Chuck, John Paul Matthews and Charlie Ray Hays; six grandchildren; three great grandchildren; sister, Sue Steele Whisler and husband, Jess; and several nieces and nephews.