Deborah Louise Stokes

Deborah Louise Stokes, 74, of Lohman, MO, passed away on Monday,
September 14, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on December 26, 1951, in St. Louis, MO, the
daughter of William and Jennie (Kelly) Dolan.

Deborah graduated from LaFayette High School in St. Louis, later
receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education
from the University of Missouri.

She was united in marriage to Richard “Rick” Stokes at the
Cathedral of St. Joseph on May 21, 1977. They shared nearly 50
years together, building a life centered around family and
faith.

Deborah dedicated more than 30 years to the pro-life cause,
serving in a variety of roles at the Vitae Foundation, including
Executive Director. She was deeply committed to the mission and
to making a difference in the lives of others. Prior to her
retirement in May of 2026, she was awarded the Missouri House of
Representatives Resolution No. 4652 for her years of service and
dedication to the Vitae Foundation.

Debbie’s family and friends knew her to be joyful, genuine, and
above all, kind. She took great pride in her personal style and
in thoughtfully decorating her home with each season. As an avid
reader and lover of books, she cherished time in her beloved
library. She found peace and fulfillment in gardening, tending
to her plants with the same care and patience she showed to
those she loved. Debbie brought creativity, warmth, and kindness
into all aspects of her life, leaving a lasting impression on
everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Survivors include her husband, Rick; two children, Jennifer
(Brian) Busby, Lohman, MO, Kelly Stokes, San Diego, CA; three
grandchildren, Devin Dirnberger, Olivia Busby, and Zoe Busby; a
sister, Melinda (Gary) Sanders, Jefferson City, MO, and her
beloved golden retriever, Frankie.

Deborah was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation will be 1:30-4 p.m. Sunday, September 20, 2026, at
Trimble Funeral Homes – Jefferson City with a prayer service at
1:00 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, September
21, 2026, at St. Martin Catholic Church with the Rev. Nicholas
J. Reid officiating.

Memorials are suggested to the Vitae Foundation or to St. Martin
Catholic Church Building Campaign.

Services entrusted to Trimble Funeral Homes – Jefferson City.
trimblefunerals.com

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