Debra Kay Reffitt

Debra Kay Reffitt (Rellihan), 69, of Lone Jack, Missouri, peacefully passed away on December 23, 2024, at 11:37 PM. Born on July 16, 1955, Debra was an adored wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, whose heart for others and joy in sharing moments, left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

Debra grew up in a large, loving family; the daughter of the late William A. Rellihan Jr. and Elizabeth A. Rellihan (Stephan), and the oldest of nine children. She graduated from Bishop Miege High School, setting the foundation for a life characterized by hard work, devotion, and resilience.

Debra found immense joy in her family, and is survived by her husband, Freddie J. Reffitt, three daughters: Jamie Harrel (husband Shawn Harrel, children Evan and Aaron Harrel), Jennifer Snelling (husband Brad Snelling, children Livia and Laiken Snelling), and Janice Bell (husband Doug Bell, children Bailey Barron, Cameron and Hunter Bell). Her family was her greatest pride, and she was a steadfast presence in their lives.

Debra’s love extended beyond her immediate family. Debra is survived by her beloved siblings: Barbara Rellihan, Teresa McGuire (Rellihan) (husband Gerry McGuire), Stephanie Frost (Rellihan) (husband Steve Frost), Elizabeth Lillis (Rellihan) (husband Charles), Dan Rellihan (wife Ruthann), Tim Rellihan (wife Tracy), Mary Shaw (Rellihan) (husband Rod), and John Rellihan (wife Theresa). She is also survived by the Reffitt family, countless nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom will honor her memory. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In her 31-year career as a mail carrier with the United States Post Office, Debra served her community with dedication before retiring in 2013. She was known not only for her diligence but also for her genuine care for those she encountered on her daily routes, and postal friends she made over the years.

Debra married the love of her life, Fred, on September 19, 1998. Together, they built a beautiful life, first in Raytown, Missouri, where she lived for over 30 years, and later in Lone Jack. Fred retired in October 2023 after an impressive 47-year career at Tension Envelope, and the two cherished their time together in retirement.

A resilient breast cancer survivor, Debra rang the bell of victory in 2021, a testament to her strength and perseverance. She was known for her quick wit, fun-loving nature, and zest for life. She raised her three daughters on her own with vigor and determination, and when she met Fred, he became a loving husband, stepfather, and grandfather. Together, they created a life full of love, laughter, and treasured memories. She enjoyed simple pleasures, from spending time at the lake with Fred to spoiling her dog Buster Boy, indulging in chocolate, online shopping, and listening to the music of Josh Groban, finding comfort and joy in his voice.  She was deeply proud of her daughters and grandchildren, always sharing their accomplishments with anyone that would listen.  Strong in her beliefs, Debra lived with integrity. Her sense of humor and “spicy” personality shone through until the end.

Debra’s, laughter, authenticity, sincerity, resilience and kindness was a reflection of the love that will forever be imprinted in the hearts of her family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Funeral Services will be held to honor and celebrate Debra’s life Friday, January 3rd, at St. Sabina Catholic Parish – 700 Trevis Ave., Belton, MO 64012. A Visitation will be at 10:00am, with a Catholic Mass at 11:00am. The Burial will be immediately after at Mount Olivet Cemetery – 7601 Blue Ridge Blvd Kansas City, MO 64138, and a gathering back at St. Sabina after. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her memory to St. Sabina Parish Memorial Fund, at the address above.

Rest in peace, Debra, walk pain free wearing that big smile with your family and friends who have gone before you, as a beacon of love and light