In loving memory of Deborah Ann Burnett-Sampson of Salem, IL, who was born on April 21, 1954, in Sullivan, Missouri, and peacefully passed away on October 18, 2023, in Springfield, Illinois. Known affectionately as Debbie, she will be remembered as a woman of immense courage, a loving spirit, and an unwavering optimism that touched the lives of all those fortunate enough to know her.
Debbie’s early years were characterized by her dedication to education. After graduating from Bourbon High School in 1972, she pursued further studies at the Hickey Secretarial School in Saint Louis, Missouri. Her first job was at Fabick Tractor, where she diligently served until she relocated to Salem, Illinois. There, she garnered recognition as secretary of the year while working for a local bank, a testament to her strong work ethic and commitment to her profession.
After the birth of her beloved son Darren, Debbie made the heartfelt decision to step down from her position and focus on raising him. Once Darren had grown, she made the choice to resume her education. She attended Kaskaskia College, where she earned her associate’s degree in Early Childhood Development, consistently earning a place on the Dean’s List throughout her studies. Driven by her immense love for children, Debbie found fulfillment working at BCMW Head Start while also serving as a paraprofessional for several school districts.
In 2005, a new chapter of Debbie’s life began when she married Dennis Sampson on May 2nd. Together, they blended their families and created countless cherished memories over the past 18 years.
In 2006, Debbie embarked on a courageous battle with cancer. Despite the challenges she faced, she triumphed over the disease in 2009, only for it to reappear a decade later. As a result, she retired from her dedicated work in the education sector in 2019. Yet, throughout her journey, Debbie remained steadfastly optimistic, embodying her loving and spirited nature even in the face of adversity.
Debbie had a deep appreciation for the wonders of life, evident in her diverse range of interests. She had a special fondness for children, and movies, and held a particular admiration for Larry Bird and Neil Diamond.
The Food Network, The Price is Right, and Let’s Make a Deal were regular fixtures on her television screen. Additionally, she avidly followed the Johnny Depp trial. Debbie was also a gifted cook, delighting her loved ones with her culinary talents.
Debbie will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends, her memory a testament to her strength, love, and unwavering positivity. She leaves behind a legacy of perseverance and a spirit that will continue to inspire all those who were touched by her beautiful soul.
Debbie is survived by her loving son, Darren Dwyer of Salem, IL; her husband, Dennis Sampson of Salem, IL; a sister, Gay Cunningham and companion Ross Pulvere of Heber City, UT; three nephews: Derek Burnett and wife Madison of Kansas City, MO, Christopher Cunningham of Heber City, UT, and Clayton Cunningham of Vail, CO; a niece, Madeline Burnett of Pheonix, AZ; great nieces and nephew: Aiden Burnett, Ava Ann Burnett (named after Debbie) and Haiden Cunningham; two loving cousins, Sonny Sappington, and wife Missy and Dale Branson and wife Penny all of Bourbon, MO; a second son, David Marcum and wife Danielle and their children, Owen, Cora and Emery of Salem, IL; a devoted friend, Larry Rogers of Salem, IL; a step-son, Tug Sampson and wife Aimee and their children, Wayland, Sterling, and Aubree; and her three precious pups: Hoot, Libby, and Dewey.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Edith Burnett; two brothers: Thomas and Richard Burnett; a brother-in-law, Gary Cunningham; paternal grandparents, Orville and Opal Burnett; and her maternal grandparents, Walter and Viola Richters.
Private funeral services will be held at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan, Missouri. With interment to follow at the Oddfellows Cemetery of Sullivan. Friends may send their online condolences to Debbie’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or your local animal shelter. All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.
