Obituary

Debra “Debby” Gibbs, 73, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s on August 27, 2025. Born on September 25, 1951, in South Bend, Indiana, to Al and Betty Rokely, she grew up with her sister, Judy, in a loving home that nurtured her gentle and compassionate spirit.

A dedicated educator, Debby earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Indiana University and began teaching at just 21. After moving to California, she spent more than 30 years at Alderwood Basics Plus School in the Irvine Unified School District, where she became a cherished teacher and mentor, known for her patience, devotion, and ability to inspire confidence in her students.

Debby was admired for her quiet strength, beautiful handwriting, and lifelong love of reading, especially her passion for Abraham Lincoln. She was known for the thoughtful cards she sent to friends and family, each carefully chosen and written from her heart.

Even as Alzheimer’s changed her life, Debby remained “Sweet Debby,” kind, gentle, and full of grace. Her warmth and resilience touched not only her family and longtime friends but also the caregivers who knew her in her final months. Her response to her diagnosis, “My faith will get me through this,” reflected the foundation of strength and faith in the Lord that guided her throughout her life.

Debby is survived by her loving husband, Dennis; her sister, Judy Aumsbaugh; her niece, Jill Graham; her nephew, Kyle Aumsbaugh, and Dennis’ children and their families. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her. Debby was laid to rest at Pacific View Cemetery, Newport Beach, California.

Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she shaped, and in the example she set to live with kindness, lead with faith, and love generously.