Deborah Lee Taylor

Deborah Lee Taylor (Russell), 71, passed away on February 18, 2026. Born on December 26, 1954, in Haskell, Texas, Deborah carried her small-town roots with her throughout her life. Though she resided in Moore, Oklahoma, her heart always longed for Rochester, Texas — the place that forever felt like home. Deborah dedicated more than 35 years of her life to working as an aircraft mechanic at Tinker Air Force Base. She took immense pride in her work and in the strength and skill it required. She was resilient, hardworking, and determined — traits that defined not only her career but her entire life. Deborah was also a fierce advocate for equality in the workplace. Many women will have a better life at Tinker because of her fights to ensure women shared equality in the workforce and in life. She stood her ground, demanded fairness, and helped carve a path for those who came after her. She bravely battled breast cancer and beat it, proving her strength as a true survivor. Later, she faced blood cancer with that same fierce determination. Deborah was a fighter. She endured a hard life, yet she persevered through every challenge with grit and unwavering resolve. More than anything, she was a dedicated and devoted mother. No matter the hardship, she made sure her daughter was taken care of — always. Her love was protective, steadfast, and unconditional. She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her daughter, Cassady, and son-in-law, Zach; her beloved granddaughters, Eleanor and Hadley; her bonus daughter, Danyelle Judson; her sister, Kathy; her brother, Kerry and his wife, Mary; and several nieces and nephews; the love of her life, Pat Janeway. Deborah was feisty, outspoken, strong-willed, and unapologetically herself. She had no problem being silly and loved to laugh. She was spunky, vibrant, and full of personality. She loved the ocean and was an avid seashell collector, always drawn to the waves and the treasures they left behind.