Debra "Debbie" Kaye (Shetley) Richardson

Debra “Debbie” Kaye Richardson, 65, of Norman, Oklahoma, passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on September 5, 1960, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Cecil Gene Shetley and Aleta Rae (Sloan) Shetley.

Debbie spent her early childhood surrounded by family and adventure. In 1967, her family moved to Houma, Louisiana, where she began making cherished memories. By 1971, they returned to northwest Oklahoma City, where she attended Putnam City schools during her formative years. In 1975, the family settled in Norman, Oklahoma, where Debbie continued her education through Norman Public Schools, graduating from Norman High School in 1978.

She went on to attend Oklahoma City Community College, where she earned her associate degree. It was in Norman that Debbie met the love of her life, Ronny Lee Richardson. The two were married on September 15, 1979, beginning a beautiful life together built on love, family, hard work, and hospitality.

Throughout her childhood, Debbie shared a special bond with her family during trips to the lake, especially Lake Eufaula. Those early memories grew into a lifelong love for lake life that remained close to her heart. She carried that love with her into adulthood, always enjoying time at the lake with her “lake family,” where laughter, friendship, and making memories were second nature.

Together, Debbie and Ronny built and operated multiple successful restaurants and businesses, including Chubby’s Burrito Grill & Cantina in Porum, Oklahoma. A place where Debbie’s warmth and personality left a lasting impression on everyone who walked through the doors. She was truly a people person who never met a stranger, always finding joy in connecting with others, whether at home, in her restaurant, or while traveling.

Debbie also loved traveling with her husband, especially cruising to new destinations. Above all, she treasured time spent with her family. Her kindness, laughter, and welcoming spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Debbie is lovingly remembered by her husband of 47 years, Ronny Richardson. Together, they had four sons and devotedly raised five: Billy Byrd; Justin Richardson and wife Casey; Brandon Richardson and wife Kirsten; Tanner Richardson and wife Alyssa; and Riley Richardson and wife Sarah.

She is also lovingly remembered by her seven grandchildren, Caleb, Autum, Cooper, Caisyn, Payton, Teal, and Ruby; her siblings, Mike, Donna, Dyana, Allan, and Darla; and many extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil Gene Shetley and Aleta Rae Shetley.

In honoring Debbie’s wishes, cremation has been entrusted to Hunn Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 211 W. Okmulgee, Checotah, Oklahoma 74426.

A celebration of Debbie’s life will be held on May 16, 2026, at Embassy Suites in Norman, Oklahoma, at 4:00 p.m.

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