IN REMEMBRANCE
Debra During
Class Year:
1972
Date of Birth:
12/30/53
Date of Passing:
4/23/25
Debra Durling, 71, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025, in Round Rock, Texas after battling multiple sclerosis for many years. She faced her illness and loss of independence with courage and humor, showing kindness to caregivers despite her frustrations. A vibrant and active spirit throughout her life, Debra touched the lives of many with her warmth, dedication, and love for adventure.
Born on December 30, 1953, in Portsmouth, Virginia, Debra’s early years were in San Diego, with the family later settling in Bridge City, TX. She pursued higher education at Lamar University before continuing her studies at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, where she trained to become an occupational therapist. Her career was devoted to working as a pediatric occupational therapist, where she made a lasting impact on countless young lives through her compassion and expertise.
A longtime resident of Austin, Texas, Debra embraced life with enthusiasm. She learned to play guitar from her cousin and developed a lifelong love of playing the guitar and singing. Her love of the outdoors led her to enjoy snow skiing, scuba diving, hiking, and traveling to new destinations.
Debra was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Lucille Durling. She is survived by her brothers George (Evelyn) Durling and David (Chyrl) Durling, and numerous cousins. Her love extended warmly to her nieces, nephew, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Debra also treasured the many strong close family-like friendships she cultivated over the years, most notably her friend Mary Pratt and family who provided so much love and support.
A memorial gathering celebrating Debra’s life will take place at 3 PM on Thursday, May 15,2025 for her lifelong Austin area friends and family at Austin Beerworks, 3001 Industrial Terrace, Austin, TX. An interment service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, located at 4560 HWY 87 South in Orange, TX. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Deb can contribute to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Sierra Club or any favorite charity.
Debra’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.