Debbie Taylor

Debra Kay Taylor, known affectionately as Debbie, passed away on June 26, 2025, at Saint Francis Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 69, surrounded by the love of her family. Debbie courageously battled cancer for two years. She fought the good fight—and she fought it with grace, strength, and determination until the very end. Debbie was born on November 9, 1955, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the oldest of three children born to Jimmie Coppinger and Marjorie Harwood Coppinger. Her family moved often throughout her childhood for her father’s job with the phone company. They lived in numerous towns across the state. Among her most treasured memories were the years she spent as a Duncan Demon. She ultimately graduated from Stillwater High School and went on to attend Oklahoma State University. Debbie spent more than 35 years building a successful career in the travel industry, including over 25 years at World Travel Service, where she rose to become Vice President of Vacations and Groups. She was a trusted friend and empathetic leader, always there for her team professionally and known for offering genuine encouragement and personal support to those around her. Her kindness, humor, and unforgettable laugh made her a cherished presence in both work and life. Travel was never just a job for Debbie—it was her passion, her purpose, and her joy. She often said, “Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer,” and she lived that truth to the fullest. She especially loved trips to Hawaii, Mexico, and Italy, and she was happiest near water—whether at the lake or overlooking the ocean. She loved traveling with her children and showing them the world. She also enjoyed traveling with her coworkers, including many memorable adventures with her dear friend Terry Hartnett. Debbie also felt fortunate to be able to take 14 members of her family to Mexico, where they made wonderful memories together. She treasured the blessing of being able to share the joy of travel with so many of the people she loved. Debbie also shared a close and loving bond with her siblings, Teresa and Stan. They were always laughing together, sharing stories, and simply enjoying each other’s company. Their connection was a constant source of joy and support throughout her life. Above all, Debbie was a devoted and loving mother and grandmother. She doted on her children and grandchildren, always ready with a thoughtful gift, a listening ear, and heartfelt advice. She once took her grandson on a one-on-one trip to Disney World, and surprised her granddaughters by flying to Grand Cayman just to spend the day with them during a cruise stop—because that’s who she was. Her love was always active, always present. She enjoyed movies and could always name the actors and directors. She also loved attending plays and musicals with her friends, finding joy in those shared experiences. Additionally, she cherished getting together with her friends in her book club, where she enjoyed sharing their friendship and laughter along with lively conversations. Debbie is survived by her children: Collin Taylor, and Kristin Munson and her husband Brett; by her beloved grandchildren: Cameron Nolen, Hayden Munson, and Halle Munson; her siblings: Teresa Norman and husband Daniel, and Stan Coppinger and wife Sherrie; and by her beloved dog, Romi. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jimmie and Marjorie Coppinger. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and more friends than could ever be counted—because to know her was to love her. A service to celebrate Debbie’s life will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Hayhurst Funeral Home, located at 1660 South Elm Place, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012. All who knew and loved her are welcome. Debbie will be remembered for her strength, her warmth, her quick wit, and the adventurous, generous spirit that defined her life. She lived with intention, traveled with heart, and gave endlessly to those she cared about. Her memory and her legacy will continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Tributes

Debbie Taylor

November 9, 1955 - June 26, 2025