Debra Lynn Schmid

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:26) Debra Lynn Schmid passed away on Saturday March 24, 2018 with her beloved daughter, Kylea, holding her hand.

Debbie was born December 28, 1959 in Elgin, IL, to George W. Etters, Jr. and Adrienne J. (Cliff) Brouk. She was a 1979 graduate of McHenry County College, receiving her Associate Degree in Applied Sciences, with honors, in Floriculture/Horticulture. She married Thomas J. Schmid (deceased) on October 25, 1980. Debbie was a mother, floral designer and owner of Schmid’s Flower Village and Gift Box. She later became an author of spiritual books and created a ministry, “The Beauty of Life.” Debbie’s most recent book, Heaven’s Heartbeat, was published this year.

Debbie truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures; church, her ministry, her bible study groups, quilting, gardening and writing. Most of all, she loved spending time with her grandchildren, Synwi and Tanyn Bitoka. Debbie had an uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way and the number of lives she touched are countless. She is survived by her daughter, Kylea (Schmid) Bitoka, her mother, Adrienne J. (Koci-Etters) Brouk; brothers, Jeffrey S. Etters, Scott P. Etters and Timmothy L. Etters. Debbie was a member of Palo Verde Church of Christ and Pantano Christian Church.

Family, friends, and others whose lives Debbie touched are invited to the East Lawn Palms Mortuary Chapel, 5801 E. Grant Road, from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. on Thursday, March 29, 2018, for a visitation and time to reminisce, grieve, support each other and, of course, just chat. A small, family burial will be held on Friday.

Debbie requested that a “Celebration of her Life” memorial be held at a later date. Her family hopes you will all attend Debbie’s “Celebration of Life” later this year. More details will be forthcoming.