In Loving Memory of Debra Sue Baker

Obituary

Debra Sue Baker, 68, formerly of Monroe, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 10th, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at her home in Humansville, Missouri. Born on August 5th, 1957, in Columbus, Ohio, Debra was the first daughter of Carley and Lula Rice. She was later joined by five siblings Danny, Dennis, Diana, David, and Dusty each of whom formed the close-knit family that Debra helped anchor with grace, faith, and love.

A Life Filled with Music and Family

From an early age, Debra was deeply influenced by her parents' love of music. This passion became a cornerstone of her life, offering her joy, comfort, and faith throughout the years. Music was more than just a hobby for Debra it was a lifelong source of connection and inspiration.

Marriage and Family

On August 15th, 1975, Debra married her high school sweetheart, Johnny Pierce. Together, they navigated the journey of military life through the U.S. Army and raised two daughters, Crystal and Amber, who became the center of her world.

In 2015, Debra found love again and married Michael Baker. Their marriage was built on deep companionship and shared spirituality, a steady bond rooted in mutual respect, faith, and the comfort of walking life's journey together. She will be dearly missed by her husband Michael as he now carries the weight of her absence in his heart.

Devotion to Family

Debra's love for her daughters was fierce and unwavering, and her devotion extended to her nieces, siblings, parents, and everyone who was part of her family. Her granddaughter, Harper, held a special place in her heart. Debra's love for Harper was immeasurable; her eyes sparkled brighter in Harper's presence, and she often shared stories highlighting the joy of watching her granddaughter grow. Their time together was filled with laughter, tenderness, and affection, and Debra's influence helped nurture the artistic spark in Harper.

Creativity and Craftsmanship

A woman of extraordinary creativity, Debra was rarely without multiple craft projects in progress. She mastered sewing, painting, drawing, face painting, cooking, and especially crochet. Whether teaching a new stitch, making scarves for friends, or crocheting animals for Harper, Debra's hands were always busy with purpose and love. Her kitchen was another place where she expressed her creativity, delighting in preparing meals that brought people together. Debra was a motivator at heart, always encouraging others to try new things, believe in themselves, and embrace their own creativity. Her warmth and support lifted everyone around her.

Sense of Humor and Passion for History

Debra's sense of humor was as vibrant as her artistic spirit. Years ago, she earned the nickname "Edith" from Butch Morris, her sister Diana's first husband a playful reference to Edith Bunker from All in the Family. The name was given with affection and captured Debra's sweet nature, gentle voice, and her ability to bring warmth and laughter into any room.

She was also a passionate researcher, endlessly curious about genealogy and local history. Debra dedicated countless hours to uncovering family stories and preserving the past, ensuring the legacy of those who came before her would not be forgotten.

Legacy

Debra's laughter, wisdom, and boundless generosity will be deeply missed. She lived with purpose, taught with grace, and loved with a heart that never stopped giving. Her legacy is one of creativity, connection, and unconditional love a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Surviving Family

Debra is survived by her husband, Michael Baker; daughters, Crystal Pierce and Amber Pierce; granddaughter, Harper Champagne; and stepdaughters, Catherine and Crystal Baker

Siblings: Danny Rice, Dennis (Gail) Rice, Diana (Phil) Graham, David (Michelle) Rice, and Dusty (Shawnie) Rice. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carley and Lula Rice.

Nieces and Nephews: Joshua Rice, Bethany Rice, Carlie Rice, Jeremy Rice, Jenna Rice, Jared Rice, April Morris, Pete Morris, Brittany Reid, Jewel Rice, Marilynn Rice, Kimball Replogle, Asher Rice, Skyler Rice, Aria Dotson, Azriel Dotson, Angel Lupton, A.J. Morelock, Will Morris, Destiny Reid, and Devin Reid.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO.