Deborah Kay Shafer

Deborah Kay Shafer, née Hammitt, born on August 6, 1958, in Phoenix, Arizona, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, in Roswell, New Mexico. She was a cherished presence whose vibrant spirit and warm personality touched the lives of many.

Deborah, affectionately known as Debbie, embraced life with enthusiasm and joy, her passions spanning both indoors and outdoors. She delighted in activities such as playing softball, umpiring, bowling, and fly fishing, always approaching each with a zest that inspired those around her. Beyond her hobbies, she treasured her many friendships that filled her heart, creating bonds that were sustained by kindness, laughter, and the simple pleasures of shared time together.

A distinctive hallmark of Deborah’s memory is her love of yellow roses—a symbol she held dear. Seeing these bright blooms should always bring a smile to the faces of all who knew her, capturing the warmth and light she brought into the world.

Deborah was deeply devoted to her family. She leaves behind her beloved daughter, Jessica and her husband Clint, as well as a son, Jeremiah and his wife Victoria. She was a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren and a loving great-grandmother to eighteen great-grandchildren, as well as an aunt to numerous nieces and nephews. These family connections were sources of immense pride and joy in her life.

She was predeceased by her parents, Gorden James Hammitt and Rudy Lynn Francis, along with a sister, Nikki Squires, a brother, David Hammitt, and a daughter, Valerie, whose memories she carried with her always.

A memorial service to honor Deborah’s life and legacy will be held at the Ballard Funeral Home, located at 910 S Main St, Roswell, NM 88203, on Saturday, May 30, 2026, beginning at 2:00 p.m. and concluding at 3:00 p.m. It will be a time for family, friends, and all who cherished her to gather, reflect, and celebrate the abundant life she lived.

Deborah Kay Shafer’s enduring spirit, love for life, and the bright light she shared with everyone fortunate enough to know her will long be remembered and cherished.