Debbie Robbins

Debbie Robbins, of Sullivan, Indiana, entered eternal rest at 9 p.m. on Saturday, October 14. After a tough battle with cancer, she passed away peacefully at her “beautiful” house. Debbie was a devoted wife, mom, grandmother, aunt, sister, and many other unofficial titles. She is survived by her brotherRonald (Ann) Shorter of Sullivan, Beverly (Lee deceased) Coulson of Sullivan, and Vicki (Ben) Springer of Sullivan. 

Debbie married Gary (Joe) Robbins December 5, 1975, together they had three beautiful children, Amber (John) Elwood of Columbus, IN, Natalie (Jared) Tatum of Brazil, IN, and Ryan (Tasha) Robbins of Sullivan, IN, all of whom survive. Debbie also has six grandchildren who were the love of her life, Josie Leigh, Hudson Andrew, Slader Jonathan, Bristol Lee, and the tater-tots Vance Joseph, and Bella Lavon. 

Debbie was a 1974 graduate of Sullivan High School. After high school, she found her calling in the healthcare industry rehabilitating patients back to health in the physical therapy department. She enjoyed spending time with her extensive family in Sullivan. She especially enjoyed attending all of the different sporting events and dance recitals of all of her many nieces, nephews and cousins. She also took huge pride bragging on her adult children and most certainly the grandbabies. Affectionately known as “mamaw”, she could brighten a room instantaneously with a warm smile, kind word, infectious laugh or, just her warm presence.

Debbie was a member of the United Methodist Church of New Lebanon. She was always among the first to volunteer whenever the congregation had a need. She was the person you could call any time of day and she always answered the call. She made everything and everyone better just by virtue of her glowing personality. She would light up any room simply with her positive personality.  She maintained her keen sense of humor until the very end. Debbie was a strong Christian filled woman, and never doubted her faith. She is finally “home.”

Debbie is preceded in death by her parents Victor and Esther Shorter, her brothers Jerry, Rex, Mike, nephew Victor, niece Susan, and nephew Brad.

Debbie’s celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, October 20 at the United Methodist Church of New Lebanon. Family and friends may gather for a time of visitation at Holmes Funeral Home in Sullivan, IN from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, October 19. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the United Methodist Church of New Lebanon or the Sullivan Humane Society.

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