Debra Grate

Debra Jean Grate passed from this life September 11, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.

Debbie was born May 31, 1955 to Edward Wirth and Evelyn Trusler Wirth. She was raised and graduated high school in Pontiac, Michigan. After high school, she worked to support her family and raise her four cherished boys in Port Huron, Michigan. 

In 2000, Debbie relocated to Northern California to marry the love of her life, Bob. Together they shared an extraordinary amount of adventures, living in Mexico, Death Valley, and Arizona. Their travels took them on multiple cruises, as well on trips to Thailand, South Korea, and numerous areas of Mexico. 

Debbie loved to travel, see new places, meet new people, and explore anywhere the opportunity arose. Her favorite hobbies included swimming and taking every opportunity to help animals in need. 

After falling in love with the local area, Debbie and Bob relocated to Moss Point in 2015, where they enjoyed their last years together. 

Debbie is preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Evelyn; siblings Edward (Eddie) Wirth, Gaye Ann Ashby, Susan Harb, Judith Sederlund, and her beloved son Patrick Bills. 

She is survived by her husband Bob Grate; sons Kerry (Angela) Goodson, Kirt ‘Tony’ Goodson, Andrew Bills; stepdaughters Amy Jarrard and Krista (Aaron) Basham, sisters Patricia Thornberry and Janet Williamson, numerous grandchildren, one great grandson, as well as multiple nieces and nephews. 

There will be no public service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local animal shelter in Debbie’s name. 

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