Debra Cannon-Clegg

Debra "Debbie" Hicks Cannon-Clegg, aged 70, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, in Arlington, Texas, surrounded by her beloved family after a long illness. Debbie's humor and warmth shone through until the very end, making jokes to bring laughter to her family in her final hours. Her compassionate heart touched many lives, both in her personal life and professional career.

Debbie was born on February 1, 1955, in Lepanto, Arkansas. After many years of dedicated service, she retired from the Arlington Villa Retirement & Nursing Community in 2020. She began as Activities Director and spent most of her career there as Resident Manager of Retirement, Assisted Living & Cottages. Known affectionately as "Mama D" by her coworkers, Debbie was a compassionate caregiver and a champion for the elderly, as well as any pet in need of care. Her big heart and kindness were evident to all who met her, and she never met a stranger. Debbie had a special love for dogs, with Phoebe being her trusted sidekick in her final days.

The home Debbie and Christine built together was a place of love and laughter, and "the" family gathering spot for all occasions. Their doors were always open to anyone, whether for a night, a weekend or an extended period, especially those going through difficult times. Debbie and Chris were wonderful at creating their "chosen family" as their circle. That circle included a unique blend of family, friends and those they loved dearly. In many ways, their closest friends were family members, making them doubly blessed.

Debbie shared nearly 30 wonderful years with her devoted wife, Christine Clegg, and they would have celebrated their 9th wedding anniversary next week. Debbie leaves behind her children: Midge Cannon Beavers (Alan), Roger Cannon (Beth) and Camryn Clegg (Dylan Widup); her grandchildren: Taylor Cannon Freeman (Kevin "KJ"), Luke Cannon (Laura Coates) and Colt Cannon; her great-grandson, Ares Freeman; and her siblings: Darrel Hicks, David McKinney, Jr. (Ginger) and Melba McKinney Osterman (Sean). Debbie also had numerous nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

Debbie was born to Omega "Midge" McKinney and Darrel Hicks, both of whom predeceased her. She was also predeceased by her sister, Edie Faulkner.

Debbie's family expresses their gratitude to the nurses and techs of Station 52 at Arlington Memorial Hospital for the exceptional care and comfort they provided Debbie in her final days. They also extend their deepest thanks to Debbie's best friend, Rhonda Schrock, for being there every step of the way, providing guidance, comfort and laughter when it was needed most.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a contribution to the Humane Society of North Texas in Debbie's memory or simply taking a moment to make someone smile-something Debbie lived for every day.