Debra Ann (Martin) Gilden age 64, of Springfield, Missouri died Friday, November 10, 2023 at NHC Healthcare of Joplin, MO.

Debra was born on Wednesday July 8, 1959 in Springfield, Missouri to Emlous Preston (E.P.) and Louise Elizabeth (Clevenger) Martin. She attended Central High school and graduated in 1977. She met the love of her life, Wesley Dwayne Gilden through a mutual friend, and they married May 12, 1990.

Debra began working part-time in 1974 for the Council of the Churches of Springfield, MO. She worked for Greene County Mental Health Association during her high school years. After graduating high school, she attended Draughon Business College completing her associate degree. She also finished her Executive and Legal Secretary programs that was possible with the help of her high school guidance counselor, Wilbur Brill. Debra worked for Assemblies of God Headquarters (Insurance Department); Security State Bank of Republic, MO (secretary to the president); Lawyers: Donald S Clough, Donald L Sanders, Springer & Haseltine, Jim Sivils; and Paul Mueller Company. She enjoyed each new job with their new experiences.

Debra loved her family more than anything. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and watching them laugh and play. She was known as Nana to them. She was loved by so many people and she will be greatly missed.

Debra is preceded in death by her parents; one sister. Barbara Martin, and her brothers.

Debra is survived by her husband, Wesley Gilden of Springfield, MO; son, Joseph Gilden and wife, Ashley of Springfield, MO; daughter, Jennifer Merrill and husband, Dayton of Willard, MO; five grandchildren, Evelyn Rose Gilden, Elijah Preston Merrill, Adilynn Braye Merrill, Hailey Faith Merrill and Broden William Merrill. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

God saw you getting weary. He did what he thought best. He came and stood beside you, and whispered, "Come and Rest". It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone, for part of us went with you the day God called you home. God gave us strength to bear it, courage to take the blow, but what it meant to lose you, God will ever know.

Online condolences may be made at klingnerfuneralhome.com.