Debra Davis Goldman

Debra "Debbie" Goldman passed away on August 27, 2024, in Boca Raton, FL after a fierce battle with leukemia. She was surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 8, 1951, in Rockford, IL, to Dolores "Dee" and Lynn Davis, Debbie was the middle child in a close-knit family, growing up with her big brother Donald "Don" Davis, and her little sister, Cynthia "Cindy" Conboy, nee Davis. The Davis family moved to Ohio when Debbie was little. Her childhood was filled with the joys of playing outside, camping, and creating lasting memories at large family gatherings. The Davis family settled back in Rockford, IL, where Debbie attended Guilford High School. She went on to earn her degree in English from Northern Illinois University (Class of 1973). It was at NIU that she met the love of her life, William "Bill" Goldman. The two fell madly in love and married shortly after graduation. Debbie then got her master's degree in Library Science from NIU. Debbie and Bill shared 50 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, and family. They raised two children, Becca Goldman, married to Carolyn Galayda, and Justin Goldman, and in 2013, Debbie's joy multiplied with the arrival of her twin grandchildren, Levi and Jonah Galayda. Known affectionately as YaYa, Debbie cherished every moment with her grandchildren and embraced her role as their biggest fan. Throughout her life, Debbie poured her creativity and love into everything she touched. Her home was a haven of beauty and comfort, reflecting her keen eye for design and her passion for creating a welcoming space. She had a deep love for gardening, poetry, and collecting antiques, which she sold in her beloved Etsy shops. Debbie also found joy in her work as a librarian, where she combined her love of books with her dedication to helping others. In 2016, Debbie and Bill retired to Boca Raton, Florida. Debbie's legacy of love, creativity, and beauty lives on in her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her passing leaves an unfillable hole in the lives of her family and friends, but her memory will continue to inspire. She is survived by her children Becca and Justin, her grandchildren Levi and Jonah, her siblings Don and Cindy, and countless others who loved her. Celebration of Life for Debbie and her husband, Bill will be February 22, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services; 4301 N. Main St. Rockford. Funeral Celebrant Jen Thompson will officiate. Live stream of the service can be viewed here: https://my.gather.app/remember/william-and-debra-goldman Immediately following the service, Debbie and Bill's family will host a reception at the funeral home. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFh.com.

Debra Davis Goldman

February 8, 1951 - August 27, 2024