Deborah Gail Ross

Deborah Gail Ross, 70, of DeQueen, AR, entered Heaven on June 20, 2026, surrounded by her family in Azle, TX. Born February 7, 1956, in Pinehurst, North Carolina to Rodney and Doris Hanson, Debbie lived a vibrant life shaped by her faith, her love for others, and the unique experiences of a military family.

As the daughter of Lt. Col. and Mrs. Hanson, Debbie and her brother, Mel, moved frequently, calling places like California, South Dakota, Washington and Texas home. This upbringing granted her a unique perspective and made incredible memories across the country. On October 8th, 1977, Debbie wed Paul Ross. They lived for a time in Louisiana, before finally settling in DeQueen, AR in 1997. Debbie fell in love with the small town of DeQueen and made it her forever home. 

Debbie Ross had three passions that she dedicated her life to: Jesus Christ, family, and children. She spent countless hours in the Word of God and loved attending FBC DeQueen where she worshipped, volunteered, and helped with the Food Pantry. Debbie also enjoyed working as a substitute teacher for special needs classes at DeQueen Elementary. 

Debbie was a firm believer in the strength of family. She had a deep devotion to her parents, brother, husband, and sons that poured to extended family. There was not a family birthday she had not memorized, and she loved to recognize everyone by sending cards in the mail; always signed with “In God we trust.” But it was her grandchildren who were the light of her life. She prided herself in them, never failing to show her unfaltering love. 

Debbie is preceded in death by her father, Rodney, sister-in-law, Bonita (Walker) Hanson, and mother-in-law, Leta (Hall) Ross. 

She is survived by her loving mother, Doris (Gibson) Hanson of Shreveport, LA; brother, Mel Hanson and Kathy Bounds of Carthage, TX; husband, Paul Ross of DeQueen, AR; sons, Jason (Tamara) Ross of Azle, TX and Jonathon Ross of Little Rock, AR; grandchildren, Kiera, Kinsler, Christian, and John Abram Ross; father-in-law, E.R. Ross of Carthage, TX; brother-in-law, Tom Ross of Carthage, TX; nieces, Courtney (Skyler) Daugherty, Kristina (Johnny) Yates, and Kaley (Kyle) Alexander; and many cousins and friends who will forever cherish her memory. 

A celebration of Debbie’s life will be held on July 11th, 2026 at 1pm at First Baptist Church in DeQueen, AR. She will be laid to rest in Walton Cemetery in Carthage, TX.