Debra Ann Houston, 72, of Athens, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025.

Born on March 16, 1953, in Bay City, Michigan, Debbie was the beloved daughter of the late Richard "Jack" and Joyce Oswald. She grew up in Essexville, Michigan, and graduated from Garber High School. She brought dedication and heart to every role she held—whether as a realtor, property manager, receptionist, store clerk, or most proudly, as a devoted grandmother.

Debbie is survived by her husband of 27 years, Greg Houston; two of her four children, Sara Claerhout Butler (Charlie Cummins) of Roswell, Georgia, and Russell Group (Casey) of Etowah, Tennessee; and two of her three stepchildren, Candie Houston and Misty Houston of Crossville, Tennessee. She was a cherished grandmother to thirteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her dear sister and friend, Penny Reetz of Pinconning, Michigan.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Gale Oswald of Midland, Michigan; her infant brother Randy Oswald; her daughter, Joy Claerhout Locke of Etowah, Tennessee; her infant son, Jayson Jay Claerhout; and her stepdaughter, Leeta Darlean Houston of Crossville, Tennessee.

A private family service will be held to honor her life. In Deb's memory, the family invites you to plant a tree or adopt a homeless cat—two causes she held dear.

Gramma Deb will be remembered for her love of reading, gardening, and winning at scrabble and rummy; for her quick wit and warm laughter; and for her generous spirit and willingness to serve others. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched.