Debra Jo “Debby” Whittaker, born April 1, 1952, passed away on February 10, 2026. A celebration of life will be held on September 27, Bruce and Debs’ wedding anniversary. Details will be shared at a later date.
Debs grew up in Davenport, Washington, where she developed her love for horseback riding, fishing with her dad, and dancing. Dancing was never just something she did — it was part of who she was. She performed in recitals well into her 40s and carried that joy with her throughout her life.
On September 27, 1975, she married Bruce Whittaker. Together they built a life filled with adventure and years of shared memories. Over the years they traveled to Mexico, Alaska, Canada, Idaho, and Montana — and wherever they went, they fished. Fishing was one of their greatest joys. No matter the location, Debs ALWAYS caught the biggest fish — and she never let Bruce forget it. She proudly credited her success to her “secret sauce,” a little spit on the lure before casting, and she stood by it.
Debs worked for many years in the Laboratory at Boundary County Hospital, where she formed lifelong friendships and valued the people she worked alongside.
She was a talented seamstress with a gift for upholstery and loved being what she called “artsy crapsy.” She was creative and artistic, always crafting something with her hands. She loved to garden, and her yard was her sanctuary. She spent many quiet hours down by the creek behind their home, enjoying the solitude and the sound of the water.
Debs was sweet, loving, and deeply sensitive — known to cry at just about everything. Happy moments, meaningful conversations, proud grandma memories… her heart was always right there on the surface.
She was a devoted wife, mom, and grandma. She is preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Reba Darling of Davenport, Washington. She is survived by her husband, Bruce Whittaker; her daughter, Jenny (Forest) Graham; her beloved grandchildren, Aspen and Willow; and those who truly loved her and remained present in her life. Her loyal companion Bear stayed faithfully by her side until the very end.
She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Oh Deb..so many significant memories with you and Bruce! And then your little Henny came along. I treasure you, Deb. Please take care of Hannah until I can be with both—with all of you! So grateful for the time we had together…I love you
Deb was like a sister to all of us Doyle kids . She will be missed and lived forever .
We are so saddened by your loss. We were lucky to get to take a couple of “Trek” trips with her. Condolences
I am so lucky to have known (and danced with) her. Our condolences for your loss
Will always remember the days spent in Debs bastment making wreaths for the festival of trees and filling her home with the smell of furtrees and laughter and partying with her down at the creek . Wonderfull times. Dar
I had the privilege of working with Deb for 30 years or so. We were Mutt and Jeff being 12 inches difference in height.She was a wonderful partner, cook and someone who I already miss more than one can imagine. Rest in peace Deb.
Sending much love and hugs to you Bruce, and Jenny, Forest, and Aspen and Willow.
Here’s to catching the biggest fish yet, Deb! Shine on!
My heart hurts for Bruce and your family. I have a deep appreciation for Deb’s many talents, especially her upholstery work. Thank you, kiddo. Your memory will live long in the hearts of your family and friends. I have connections going back to our Reardan and Davenport days.
A fastidious and precise tailor of unique crafts always executed on Deb time. A garden fairy slipping through the flowers and weeds she found worthy. Ever nurturing. A mother to her beloved Lucky, Odie and Bear. Summer days lazing along the creek side. Keeper of the scary room and curator of her work den. A mother bear one did not want to ire. A companion, lover of junk and the unique. Her friends and family meaning the world to her. A cup of tea, a warm cover and a little Wagon Train was bliss and made the world rosy again. A big hole has been torn in my heart. I will miss her dearly but wish her God speed.