Deborah J. “Debbie” Ebert, age 77, of Sparta, TN, and formerly of Elwood, departed this life on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Cookeville Regional Medical Center. Born on March 8, 1949, in Pleasant Hill, TN, to Francis and Berniece (Cade) Whitlow, Debbie was a cherished daughter and a devoted wife. On March 30, 1968, she married Eldon S. Ebert, with whom she shared more than 41 years of loving companionship until his passing in 2009.

For over three decades, Debbie dedicated herself to serving others at the Airport Inn and Wheelers Truck Stop, where she was beloved by patrons and co-workers alike. A member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, she lived her faith with quiet grace. Debbie found joy in the simple pleasures of life—camping beneath the stars, sharing stories around a campfire, and embracing the open road on motorcycle rides with her beloved Eldon. An accomplished crocheter and knitter, she gifted her beautiful handmade blankets to friends and family, each one a token of her warmth and generosity. Her treasured trips to Cave City, Kentucky, were a source of many fond memories. Debbie’s kindness, gentle spirit, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched.

Deborah is survived by her son, Joey Ebert of Kentucky; 2 daughters; Hilda (Larondo) Holliday of Kentucky, and Samantha (George Jr.) Knotts of Elwood; 3 grandchildren, Jonathan Ebert, Kayleigh Ebert, Samual Ebert; 3 brothers; Carl (Karen) Whitlow, Ron (Ruth) Whitlow, and Dean (Tricia) Whitlow; sister, Nickii (Mark) Platt; brother-in-law; Leon Ebert; and several nieces and nephews. Deborah is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Eldon Ebert; sister, Judy Crull; brother, Mike Whitlow; sister-in-law, Carol Ebert; and nephew, Christopher Allen,.

A funeral service celebrating Deborah’s life will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, October 30, 2026 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Pastor Scott Blaylock of Life Church officiating. Burial will follow the funeral at Elwood City Cemetery. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM prior to the service on Friday, October 30, 2026 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home to help offset unexpected funeral expenses. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the Ebert family at copherfeslermay.com.