Debbie Elaine Smith Young (Turtle), 52, our beloved sister, aunt, niece and friend, peacefully passed away on March 3, 2009, at Portneuf Medical Center, Pocatello Idaho, of complications related to surgery, and was surrounded by her family.
Debbie was born June 12, 1956, to Neil H and Evelyn Marie Hennings Smith, in Montpelier Idaho. She was truly a miracle baby, born premature and weighing only 2 pounds and 13 ounces. She had a strong will to survive and remained determined and independent throughout her life.
She married Bill Young and they were later divorced.
Debbie was known for her great cooking ability and her hospitality. She loved to provide meals for anyone that visited. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her nieces and nephews. Her childhood was spent moving from state to state due to her father's career in the mining field. Wherever she went she made friends easily. Her sense of humor and quick wit brought joy and laughter to everyone who knew her, and has provided many memories.
Her favorite places to live were Bear Lake and Lake Havasu, Arizona, where she lived for several years, enjoying the warm weather. She loved pets, especially cats.
Debbie was a hard worker and learned as a child the value of hard work. She was always willing to lend a hand whenever needed.
Debbie is survived by one sister, Mickie (Bob) Sparks of Nounan, Idaho; two brothers, Dean (Connie) Smith of Hermiston, Oregon, and Mike (Tammie) Smith of Rigby Idaho; 11 nieces and nephews and 16 great-nieces and nephews; many aunts and cousins; a stepmother, Sandra Knutti of Georgetown Idaho; two stepsisters, Denise (Larry) Callaway of Zimmerman Minn., and Tammy Hayes of Georgetown Idaho; and one stepbrother, Ryan (Jessica) Hayes of Montpelier Idaho. She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, James and Blanche Smith and Elmer and Helen Hennings, a nephew, Billie Dean Sparks and a special friend, Doug Dewite. She was loved by many and will be missed by all.
Graveside services will be held on March 7, 2009, at 10 a.m. at the Georgetown Cemetery in Georgetown, Idaho.