Debra Arlene Taylor Smith

Debra “Debbie” Arlene Taylor Smith, a lifelong pillar of her family and a proud descendant of Butler County’s early settlers, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026.

Born on January 12, 1953, to the late Charles Ernest Taylor and Laura Rodgers Taylor, Debbie grew up with a profound appreciation for her heritage. She was preceded in death by her parents and her grandparents, Emma Beasley Rodgers and Arthur Rodgers.

A woman of warmth and boundless kindness, Debbie’s kitchen was the heart of her home. She loved cooking for her family—most notably her famous banana pudding—and always had a kind word of encouragement for everyone she met. Her passion for genealogy allowed her to connect deeply with her roots as a descendant of the early settlers of Butler County.

Debbie is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Hubbard Smith; her two sons, Galahad Smith (Valerie) and Christopher Smith; her siblings, Paula Pippins and Marvin Hudson (Karen); and her cherished grandchildren, Lancelot Taylor Smith (Annabel) and Amber Haley Smith Landers (Steve).

Funeral Services were held at Dunklin Funeral Home on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11:00 AM. The family received friends during a visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. Burial followed at Sunrise Memorial Park.

Pallbearers were Lancelot Smith, Steve Landers, Jeremy Smith, Jeffery Smith, Jason Smith, Sandy Smith, and Seth Smith.