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Debra Joy Hedges, 69, of Monticello, Indiana, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. Born on December 22, 1955, in Lafayette, she was the beloved daughter of the late Ira B. and Marguerite (Pratt) Hedges. She is survived by her devoted sister, Gay Lynn Hedges of Petoskey, Michigan.
Debra was a 1974 graduate of North White High School.
While in high school, Debra was an active member of 4-H where she was crowned Miss White County in 1974. Debra earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Art and Family and Consumer Sciences from Ball State University in 1979. She pursued further academic excellence, receiving a Master of Arts from Purdue University in 1985, along with an additional 30 hours of advanced graduate study.
With a heart for teaching and a spirit of adventure, Debra spent 33 years inspiring young minds. Her career spanned Kankakee Valley, Frontier, and Merrillville School Corporations, as well as a remarkable chapter overseas in Kuwait. She retired in 2011, leaving a legacy of compassion, creativity, and care.
Debra was baptized at the First Baptist Church of Monon. She was a longtime member and supporter of the Humane Society, and the Indiana State and Local Retired Teachers Association. Debra was an ardent animal lover, especially cats, and her home was a sanctuary for her furry companions. Her admiration for all creatures great and small was central to her life’s joy.
Those who knew her best will remember the way her eyes lit up when she spoke of her pets, her garden bathed in sunlight, her favorite antique finds, or a well-loved book in her lap. To honor this lifelong devotion, one might imagine Debra reunited with her cherished animals at the Rainbow Bridge—a place where love never fades and tails wag with joy. As the poem says: “There, all the animals you ever loved run to greet you… and you cross the bridge together, never to be parted again.”
In accordance with her wishes, there will be no public visitation or services. She will be laid to rest next to her parents at Monon Cemetery, with arrangements entrusted to the Clapper Family Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions in Debra’s name may be made to organizations reflecting her enduring love for animals:
Helping Paws of Monticello
Attn: Lois High
2862 N. East Shafer Dr.
Monticello, IN 47960
Happy Tails Animal Care Center
8954 NW Shafer Dr.
Monticello, IN 47960
Woodhaven Rescue Farm
6310 S. 900 East
Lafayette, IN 47905
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