Palestine High School Alumni Association

07 / 14 / 1956  –  08 / 09 / 2008

Debra Lynn Royall died at her home on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2008 surrounded by her loved ones. She was born July 14, 1956, in Ardmore, Okla.

Debra’s life was devoted to God, her family and her friends. Those who knew Debra were inspired by her faith, courage and determination in her 11-year plus battle against brain cancer. She never lost faith in God, and never questioned His will for her life. She often said she could not ask “Why me?” without asking “Why not me?” Debra valued family and relationships and had friends from many walks of life. She especially liked young people and the merchants and employees of the many businesses in the community that she frequented. She was known for her beautiful smile and her kind and gentle way.

Debra is survived by her husband of 33 years, Tucker Royall, with whom she celebrated the anniversary of their marriage on the day she died; and by three sons, Tucker Jr. and wife Sara of Tyler, Andrew and wife Marissa of Dallas, and Nathan of Tyler; She also is survived by her parents, Duane and Fern Smith; and brothers, Warren and wife Glynette, Bruce and wife Liz, and Stephen and wife Teressa; and sister, Janis Bishop and husband Mike. She also is survived by her mother-in-law, Ann Royall Maffitt; and sisters-in-law, Rebecca Royall and Frances Alexander and husband Bobby, along with many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12 at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church with the Revs. Sam Boyd and Joe Warren officiating. Burial will follow at the Land of Memory Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Debra Royall to The University of Texas at Dallas Callier Center, c/o Jan Lougeay, 1966 Inwood Rd., Dallas, TX, 75235; or The Episcopal School of Dallas, 4100 Merrell Rd., Dallas, T X, 75229.

Published in the Herald-Press on 8/11/2008