Debra Ann Gimenez, age 59, Springfield, MO passed away Tuesday, February 28, 2017, at Cox Medical Center South.  She was born December 29, 1957 in Pasadena, TX, the daughter of Melvin and Mary Josephine ( Pekar ) Long.

Debby lived her life caring for others.  She dedicated most of her life to caring for young children, while living in Houston, TX, Miami, FL and Springfield, MO.  She found great joy in loving and caring for children in their early years.  While not working, Debby spent time relaxing and crocheting and enjoyed making baby blankets for every newborn in her life.  Debby also enjoyed traveling, seeing much of the United States and Europe.

She was preceded in death by her father, Melvin Long and her former spouse Steven James Bishop.

Debra is survived by her husband Steven Jarvis Gimenez; her mother, Mary Long; two daughters, Lauren Michelle Bishop and Chelsea Dianne Milledge and her husband Andrew; her brother, Michael Long and his wife Patty; and sister Suzanne Edmiston and her husband, Keith.

A celebration of Debby's life will be held with family in Austin, TX, and a private ceremony will be held locally.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Ozarks Regional YMCA, Endowment Fund in her memory.  (417 S. Jefferson, Springfield, MO  65806)