Debra Jean Stoddard

Debra Jean Stoddard, 67, of Bay City, Michigan, passed away on June 25, 2026. She will be remembered for the love, creativity, and warmth she shared so freely with family and friends. Family and friends are invited to gather in her honor, with visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. and a time of sharing and remembrance at 4:00 p.m.

Debra was born on September 25, 1958, in West Branch, Michigan, to Walter and Mary Lou Rich. Throughout her life, she was known for her creative spirit, her quick wit, and her gift for making ordinary things beautiful. She had a warm and welcoming personality, and she made everyone feel comfortable in her presence. Debra loved antique shopping and collecting unique treasures, each with its own meaning and story. She also enjoyed decorating her home with changing themes, spending time arranging and rearranging each space until it felt just right. One of her favorite pastimes was restoring and redoing furniture, turning old pieces into something lovely once again. She took pride in the little details and found joy in creating beauty wherever she could.

Above all, Debra cherished her family and the life she shared with her beloved companion, Fred Schmidt. She found her greatest joy in spending time with Fred, her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and she took great pride in watching her family grow. She was the kind of mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who remembered birthdays, offered encouragement, and always made time to listen. Her home was often a place of laughter, conversation, and comfort, and her love made a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. Debra also had a special way of making friends feel like family, and her kindness, generosity, and thoughtful nature will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew her best.

She is survived by her companion, Fred Schmidt; her daughter, Kelly Stoddard; her grandchildren, Trisha (Trevor) Bartholomew, Ashley Mullins, and Curtis Mullins; and her beloved great-grandchildren, Robbie, Trae, TaeLynn, Kade, Skylar, Ryder, and Waylon. She is also survived by her sister, Lou Ann (Terry) Gerwig; her brother, Gary (Kim) Rich; along with many nieces and nephews.

Debra was preceded in death by her son, Christopher; her parents, Walter and Mary Lou Rich; and her brother, Butch Rich.

Though her absence leaves a deep void, Debra’s memory will live on through the love she gave, the beauty she created, and the treasured moments she leaves behind. Her spirit will continue to shine in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her.

A Time of Sharing will take place on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. at Gephart Funeral Home. The family will be present to receive visitors on Saturday at the funeral home from 12:00 p.m. until the Time of Sharing. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wishes of the Family. In honoring the family’s wishes, they ask that no pictures are to be taken throughout the visitation and the time of sharing.