Debra Kay Parson

Debra Kay Merrill Parson passed away peacefully surrounded by her husband, Michael, daughters, Courtney and Casey, and sister Darla on June 17, 2019. She fought valiantly for many years after being faced with numerous health problems and conditions.

Debra was born in Pasadena, Texas on November 17, 1955 to Charline and Dimmitt Merrill of Crosby, Texas. She graduated from Crosby High School in 1974 where she was very active in Crosby First Baptist Church’s youth group and choir. She later continued her education at both Lee and San Jacinto Colleges. Debra worked at Crosby State Bank for many years and also went through the police academy. During her time at the police academy, Debra found out she was expecting her second daughter. She then decided to pursue her most rewarding occupation of all; world’s best mom.

Debra was a member of Memorial Baptist Church where she taught Sunday school and Mother’s Day Out for many years until her health problems began. She was a faithful wife, loving sister, loyal daughter, and an even better mother. Debra lit up every room she entered with her beautiful smile, loving demeanor, and infectious laugh. She was a friend to everyone she met and loved Jesus with all of her heart. Debra was an inspiration to everyone she encountered and taught everyone that you can overcome any obstacle, maintain a positive outlook, and praise God through any storm.

Gardening was a favorite past time of hers, as she had quite the green thumb. Being the Texas girl that she was, she adored bluebonnets and all things Texas. Debra loved the ocean and enjoyed visiting her sister and Disneyland in California, driving to Galveston, and going to the Kemah Boardwalk. She also enjoyed playing board games and dominoes with her family, painting, watching game shows, especially Wheel of Fortune, all things Disney, with her favorite character being Jiminy Cricket, and doing DIY projects and crafts. Debra was a huge sports fan. The Houston Rockets held a very special place in her heart. She enjoyed attending numerous games throughout her life, even attending the championship parades downtown and would rarely miss a game on television.

Debra is survived by her husband of 38 years, Michael, daughters Courtney and Casey, sister Darla Merrill and Sue McClellan as well as numerous other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charline and Dimmitt Merrill, sister Diane Merrill Petrash, and brother David Merrill.

Special thanks to Houston Methodist Hospital and the numerous doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, physical, speech, and occupational therapists, PCAs, housekeeping, and other vital staff members who took amazing care of our mom. Also, to Houston Methodist Continuing Care Hospital and staff for their amazing care and comfort.

Although our mom loved flowers, we ask that you donate to the American Lung Association Houston, or your favorite charity in lieu of flowers as Mom had such a giving heart.

A visitation for family and friends will be held at Sterling-White Funeral Home 11011 Crosby-Lynchburg Rd. Highlands, on Wednesday June 26, 2019 from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. followed by Memorial Services in Sterling-White Funeral Home.   Arrangements entrusted to Sterling-White Funeral Home 11011 Crosby-Lynchburg Rd. Highlands, Texas 77562. To offer condolences to the family, please visit www.sterlingwhite.com.