Debra Jean (Ritz) Ellis

Debra “Deb” (Ritz) Ellis of Wayland, Iowa, formerly from Swedeborg, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024, in her home at the age of seventy years. Deb was born on December 21, 1953, the daughter of Donald Irvin Ritz and Wilma Jean (Smith) Ritz. Deb was a 1972 graduate of Mount Pleasant High School. After she graduated in May, she hopped on a bus to Lebanon, Missouri, where she met Tommy in June of 1972. They were united in marriage on November 4, 1972, and blessed with two children. Deb and Tommy made their home in Swedeborg, Missouri. Deb was a homemaker up until her children were teenagers. She then went to work with the Pulaski County Public Health Department as a home health aide. She worked as an aide for five years. A few years later she went to work at Cracker Barrell in the gift shop where she especially loved working during the Christmas season. Deb worked for Cracker Barrell for nine years until she quit to help take care of her mother-in-law. In November of 2019, Deb and Tom moved to Wayland, Iowa, to be closer to her family. Deb loved her family with all her heart and always loved having family time. Deb loved playing cards, especially Uno. She loved to go fishing. Some of her fondest memories were fishing with one of her best friends, Phyllis. Deb loved Christmas! You could always see her putting her tree up and decorating in October! She loved baking and trying out new recipes for her family. Debra is survived by her husband of fifty-two years: Tommy Ellis of Wayland, IA; daughter: Mindy Rich and husband Curt of Mt. Pleasant, IA; son: Tim Ellis of Swebeborg, MO; brothers: Ed Ritz and wife Carol of Wayland, IA and Mike Ritz and wife Denise of Mt. Pleasant, IA; granddaughter: Heather Schwartz; great-grandchildren: Kylie and Zayden; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding her in death were her parents, one brother, sister, and her mother and father-in-law. Deb will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by those who loved her most. Funeral Services for Debra Jean (Ritz) Ellis were held Friday, June 7, 2024, at the First Baptist Church, Swedeborg, Missouri, with Pastor Doug Jacobson. Song selections played were “Precious Lord, Take My Hand”, “Look At Us”, “Roses Will Bloom Again”, and “Angels Among Us”. Serving as Pallbearers were Shawn Reimers, Randy Ellis, Jamie Ellis, Tim Ellis, Jerry Ellis, and Wes Poulson. Honorary Pallbearers were Harold Smith, Ed Ritz, Don Wall, and Riley Ellis. Burial was in the St John Swede Cemetery, Swedeborg, Missouri. Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Debra Ellis to help with final expenses and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial envelopes will be available. Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Debra Jean (Ritz) Ellis

December 21, 1953 - June 2, 2024