Thomasville, GA - Debra Ann Smith Kieffer,68, of Thomasville, Georgia, passed away on April 6, 2026, at her home. Debbie was born on June 12, 1957, in Erie, Pennsylvania, to the late Eugene Smith and Margaret Szumigala Rosenthal. She graduated from Villa Maria Academy in Erie, PA in 1975, working as a dental assistant where her warm smile and gentle nature put patients at ease, a role she faithfully served in for six years. Her love for children and nurturing spirit later led her into education, where she worked as a preschool teacher, dedicating 13 meaningful years to teaching at First Presbyterian Church in Thomasville. Teaching was more than a profession for Debbie-it was a calling, and she poured her heart into the lives of the children and families she served.

On April 7, 1979, Debbie married Brett T. Kieffer, the love of her life. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and unwavering devotion to one another. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose greatest joy was spending time with her six cherished grandchildren. Her home was filled with warmth, creativity, and love. Debbie found joy in life's simple pleasures-scrapbooking precious memories, where her patience and artistry shone, cross-stitching thoughtful creations, and enjoying an occasional round of golf where she found peace and joy. She had a gentle spirit, a generous heart, and a steady faith that guided her throughout her life. Above all, she had a gift for making others feel loved, seen and valued. She enjoyed sending cards to others for any occasion to let them know she was thinking of them.

Debbie is survived by her loving husband, Brett Kieffer; her children, Kylene M. Van Heiningen (Wally) and Ashley N. Olson (Johnny), both of Thomasville, and Brett J. Kieffer (Rachel) of Peachtree City, Georgia; six cherished grandchildren (Preston, Parker, Maebelle, Finn, Kade and Nora); and siblings Kathy Bucci, Cindy Vuong, David Smith, godson Cory Smith and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at the First Presbyterian Church in Thomasville, Georgia on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 11 am. The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 9th, from 5-7 pm at their home. The family invites all who knew and loved Debbie to join them in honoring her life and legacy.