Debbie Atkins Griffin passed away peacefully Saturday, March 23, 2024, at her home in Sherman.  She gracefully left this world surrounded by her loving family and her pets, as was her wish, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Debbie was born in Deming, New Mexico to Bill and Dorothy Atkins on August 15, 1949.  She graduated from Lake Dallas High School and attended Texas Women's University in Denton, TX.  She met the love of her life, Paul Griffin, during this time.  After marriage, Debbie and Paul lived in Garland, TX where their daughter Kristina was born.  They later moved to the Griffin Family farm in Sherman where she remained until her death.

Debbie was a fun loving, larger than life character. Her ability to love and connect with others was unmatched with an uncanny ability to connect with young people, especially her younger relatives.  She saw it as a blessing to be able to help others in their time of need.  Debbie loved to travel and was always up for a road trip.  Debbie loved to wager now and then and the numerous trips she and Paul made to Las Vegas were some of her favorites.  Debbie was an outstanding cook and always enjoyed food and fellowship with family and friends.  She was of Catholic faith.

Debbie is survived by her daughter Kristina Cooper and husband Monty of Denison; granddaughter Jessica Medaris and husband Thomas of Sherman; great grandson Ethan Smith of Sherman; brother David Atkins and wife Elaine of Forestburg; special nephew Matt Atkins and wife  Christina of Denton; special grandniece Cara Slater and husband Derek of Boyd and special great nephew Cade Slater.  She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband Paul, parents, brother Don Atkins and his wife Mary and sister Diane Stevens.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to Denison Animal Welfare group (D.A.W.G.) in Debbie's name.

Debbie's wishes were to be cremated.  A celebration of life will be held at the family farm on April 7th from 1 PM to 4 PM.