Debra Elliott

Debra Ann Elliott of Dysart, Iowa, passed away surrounded by her loving family on July 4, 2026, at the age of 69. Born on September 25, 1956, in Waterloo, Iowa, to Eugene and Eleanor (Gonnerman) Elliott, Debbie was a cherished daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, soon to be great grandma, aunt, and friend whose warmth and spirited nature touched all who knew her.

Raised in Dysart, Debbie was a proud graduate of Dysart-Geneseo High School, class of 1974, where she created lifelong friendships and first revealed the strong will that would guide her throughout her life. After graduating, Debbie stepped into the family business, Elliott Brothers Trucking, working as a dispatcher and eventually taking ownership alongside her family. It was during these years that she became the proud and devoted mother of Dawn and Bert, roles that would bring her immeasurable joy.

Throughout her life, Debbie balanced her responsibilities with her unwavering care for her children. When school was in session, Debbie worked at the Dysart Coffee Shop and Junies as a waitress, always ensuring her family was provided for and supported. Later, she joined Bertch Cabinetry, where her diligence and bright spirit made her many friends. The loss of her beloved brother Jeff guided Debbie back to the family business, where she found renewed purpose and connection, leading up to her retirement in 2017.

In the early 1990s, Debbie made the decision to further her education, attending Hawkeye Community College where she earned a degree in Business Management, yet another example of her lifelong drive and determination.

Debbie was known for her busy hands and her nurturing heart. She always tended a garden while her children were growing up, sharing the fruits–and flowers–of her labor with those she loved. She also possessed a natural gift for conversation, always ready to spend time chatting with friends and neighbors. Debbie was a regular at the Dysart Drive Inn and was known for getting her chocolate shakes. She also enjoyed spending time at John’sQwik Stop and will be fondly remembered for her spirited political debates and her animated discussions, often fueled by a pop and her signature warmth. Never one to shy away from a friendly argument, Debbie was a devoted fan of Ben Shapiro and never afraid to share her point of view.

Shopping trips with her daughter Dawn were among her greatest pleasures; together they built not only wardrobes but also countless cherished memories. Her love of games–puzzles or anything on her phone–paired well with her affection for the Hallmark Channel, WWE, The Walking Dead, NCIS and loved her soap operas. No one could miss the joy she found in simple pleasures: driving her golf cart around town, her beloved yorkies Abby 1 and Abby 2 along for the ride, waving at friends and neighbors.

Debbie’s life was rooted in family, and she took immense pride in those closest to her. Nothing was more important to her than being surrounded by her children and grandchildren, and just before her passing, she eagerly anticipated the arrival of her first great grandchild. The bonds she built with her dear friends at Elliott Trucking were deep and lasting; they were like another branch of her family tree.

Debbie is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Eugene and Eleanor, and by her brother Jeff Elliott. Carrying forward her legacy of love, laughter, and fierce devotion are her children: Bert (Mandie) Rawlins of Jesup, and Dawn (Matt) Heitmann of Dysart; her five grandchildren: Chloe, Hunter (Aubree), Greyson, Quinn, and Sophia; her great grandchild, soon to arrive; her brother, Kenny (Mary) Elliott of Sedalia, Missouri; her niece Nicole (Ryan) Cramer of Sedalia, Missouri; and a host of extended family and many cherished friends.

A service to celebrate Debbie’s life will be held at Parrott and Wood Chapel of Memories in Waterloo, Iowa, on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., with visitation prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the same location.

Those who knew Debbie will remember her fierce loyalty, her effervescent wit, and her heartfelt generosity. She lived her life with purpose and courage, never afraid to stand her ground or lend a helping hand. Her laughter, opinions, and loving presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit remains alive in the stories we share and the love we carry forward.