Debra Smith

Debra A. Smith, age 58, of Chadron, Nebraska passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2019 at Rapid City Regional Hospital after a battle against cancer. She was born on July 5, 1961 to Lyle and Yukiko “Cookie” Horn. She grew up in Hay Springs, Nebraska, and was a 1979 graduate of Hay Springs High School. Deb held a Bachelor of Arts degree from Chadron State College. She was dedicated to higher education and working with students. The last 22 years of her life was spent working in the Admissions Office at Chadron State College. Her most recent position held was Coordinator of Admissions Services. Deb’s kind heart and loving personality were unlike any other. She had the incredible ability to make those around her feel safe and loved. Deb was preceded in death by her mother, Yukiko “Cookie” Horn. She is survived by her son, Mark Horn II of Lincoln, NE; daughter, Sara Smith of Chadron, NE; father, Lyle (Nicolette) Horn of Hay Springs, NE; brother, Mark (Cammy) Horn of Billings, MT; sister, Connie (John) Lutz of Scottsbluff, NE; and several nieces and nephews and their children. Family, friends, and others whose lives were touched by Deb are invited to attend a celebration of her life on Friday, August 23, 2019 at 10:00am at Chamberlain Chapel in Chadron, NE. To honor Deb’s love of animals, the family asks that memorials be made to Friends of Pets or the charity of the donor’s choice.