Deborah Kaye Brantley

Deborah Kaye Brantley, born on January 18, 1953, in Willmar, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2025, in Waco, Texas. She was 72 years old.

Deborah spent over 40 years dedicating her professional life to the State Farm Insurance Company, where she held a vital position in the corporate headquarters, working within the arbitration department and claims. Her commitment to her work reflected her meticulous personality—everything had to be done correctly.

Raised in central Illinois, Deborah's early life laid the foundation for her loving nature. She graduated from Bloomington High School and pursued further education in college, cultivating a lifetime love of learning. This passion extended beyond her professional career and into her personal interests. An avid reader, she particularly enjoyed delving into both fiction and nonfiction, with a fondness for murder mysteries. Her artistic side blossomed through her creative pursuits, and she found joy in going antique shopping and collecting unique treasures. In her leisure time, she was also an enthusiastic viewer of the show "Ink Master," enjoying the artistic expression of tattooing.

Though she is preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Arlene Smoots, and her brother, Michael Smoots,

Family was paramount to Deborah, and her love for them was evident throughout her life. She moved back to Texas to be closer to her son, Derek Day, and her grandson, Brody Day. She is survived by her loving sisters, Jacque Smoots and Sandy Smoots-Ring, and her brother, Barry Smoots, along with other family members who cherished her deeply.

Deborah will be dearly missed by all who knew her, particularly for her kindness, caring spirit, and the joyful memories she created. Her legacy will continue through her memories, values, and the love she shared.

Deborah's family invites you to share a memory or a message online at her "Tribute Guestbook" at www.WHBfamily.com.