Debra “Debbie” Ann Tipton, 67, of Laramie, died Friday, September 25, 2020 at her home. She was born on September 13, 1953 in Laramie, WY.
She had a love of learning, from kindergarten through high school, where she excelled in academics.
After she graduated from Laramie High School, she started working at Head Start (initially to be a comfort to her little brother, who was starting Head Start). Soon after her brother, Matt, was settled in, she was offered a permanent position because of her kindness and compassionate nature.
She eventually left for Nebraska, where she put her love of cooking to good use as prep cook with her brother, Tony.
Debbie was offered an opportunity to return to teaching, this time to assist her sister, Maria in Arizona. Debbie was warmly embraced by the community easing her transition to her new home. She was nurturing and patient with her new students and was able to make learning fun and interesting. She sure had a way with words.
She then returned to Wyoming to care for her mother, where she also worked full time at American Linen. She continued to work there for several years following her mother’s passing. While working at American Linen she met Donald Tipton, and they married in 2000.
She then went on to work at Safeway, where she managed the Bakery Department and later the Deli Department. While working at Safeway she cared for her father until his passing.
After working at Safeway she took a position as a prep cook at the New Mandarin and retired from there after five years.
Debbie loved spending time with her family, laughing, telling stories, cooking and watching her favorite TV shows with her sisters.
She loved spending time with her husband, Don, shopping in Cheyenne or Fort Collins talking and laughing with him. Debbie loved to crochet scarfs, blankets, and anything else. She also enjoyed reading, particularly fantasy, fiction and mystery. She enjoyed traveling, seeing new sights, trying unusual foods, meeting new people.
Debbie was one of a kind; beautiful, brave, kind, compassionate, loving, giving, hilarious, happy, and full of life. She will be loved long after she is laid to rest, and her memory will live on for generations as our family celebrates her and the legacy she left behind.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Antonio G. Mendoza and Evangeline E. Mendoza, and her brother, John A. Mendoza.
She is survived by her husband, Donald Tipton; her siblings and their children, brother, Anthony L. Mendoza; his sons, Federico and Francisco Mendoza; sister, Genevieve and Joe Aguirres; her children, Jose (Sawmber) Aguirres and Gypsy Aguirres; sister, Elizabeth and Ysidoro Jaramillo; sister, Maria Mendoza and her daughter, Eva-Marie (Timothy) Montoya; sister, Stephanie Nottage and her children, Tiphanie (Jacob) Nekolite and Douglas (Kathryn) Nottage; sister, Evangeline L. Mendoza and her daughter, Ashley Christine Mendoza; and her brother, Mathew (Michelle) Mendoza. She is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Celebration of Life will be at 1:00 p.m. Saturday October 3, 2020 at the Lincoln Center.
I just heard about Debbie’s passing! I don’t even know that to say. She was a wonderful friend from grade school though Hi school and even after that!! I’m so sad and send God’s love to the whole family! I can’t imagine how deep a loss she leaves behind! My sincere condolences! I cry and mourn with all her family.
So sorry to hear of Debs passing, quite a shock. I fondly remember school days with her, not to mention we are related. Last time I saw her was at laundry mat by Dairy Queen two years ago. Always the same beautiful person. I love this picture of her, made me sad and happy at the same time. It totally depicts what a beautiful and sunny person she was, and always made me feel that way too. This is kinda late, sorry, I really don't check paper much. And I was sick. I have her picture in my gallery. Sincere Condolences to all family and friends. Debra Trujillo Grassman.
I’m sorry to hear of Deb’s passing, she always had that smile making you wonder what she was up to. I hope my prayers help with your broken hearts.
I am so sorry to hear of Debbie's passing, I worked with her at Safeway and she was always so nice and helpful!
I would like to extend my very deepest sympathy to the entire Mendoza Family. Debbie will be missed by us all.
I am very sorry for your loss. My comdolencs to all of the Mendoza family. My prayers go out to each and every one of you.
Sorry to hear about Debra's passing. I haven't see her since her days at Safeways, (bakery and deli). Debra would always smile and acknowledge me. Lord Jesus take her to heaven. Take care to the Mendoza family.
I was very sadden to hear about Debbie's passing. We have been friends for many years and every time we would cross paths it would be a very slow crossing because we always had to chat and catchup. Hugs and prayers for the entire family. I will miss Debbie's smiling face and warm welcomes! Rest in paradise my friend
We extend our deepest condolences to all of the Mendoza family. We pray for our dearest LORD to grant all of you such a peace that passes all understanding. Since we live out of town we didn't see Debbie that much or the rest of the family but we can truly say they all are so kind and loving and Debbie had such a sweet smile. All our love, Uncle Ronnie & Aunt Cissy
My prayers and condolences to the entire Mendoza family and friends. May she Rest In Peace.
I love you aunt Debbie. You were such a kind loving person. I miss you so much already. Rest In Peace
Eva and Ashley, I am so sorry for your loss. Debbie was so full of life and love. A kind soul that always made me feel so welcome during the holidays and your family gatherings. Rest in Peace Debbie.
To my loving and caring sister. We will miss your beautiful spirt and compassion for all those you touched in life. We are already feeling the huge hole that you left in the family circle. Rest in paradise , we will see you again and greet you with open arms. We love you more!