Deborah “Debbie" Diane Eklund (Newbill)

Deborah Diane “Debbie” Eklund, 71 of Independence, MO passed away Wednesday, August 25, 2021 at Centerpoint Medical Center. Cremation is planned with a memorial service to be held at 6:00 p.m., Friday, September 3, 2021 at the Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E. 39th St., Independence, MO 64055. The family will greet friends from 4:00 p.m., until service time Friday at the chapel. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Beacon Heights Community of Christ or to Community Service League. Debbie was born August 13, 1950 in Independence, MO to John William and Norma (Netsch) Newbill and has been a lifelong area resident. She had worked for over 31 years at the Independence School District as a teacher, counselor and had retired as principal in 2003. She enjoyed traveling, reading, quilting, games and puzzles, shopping and most of all spending time with family. She was a member of the Women’s Civic Club, Community Service League and the NEA. Survivors include her husband Eric Eklund of the home; a son, John Townley and wife Lisa of Blue Springs, MO; a daughter, Brooke McGuire and husband David of Lee’s Summit, MO; a step son, Tim Townley and wife Denise of Portland, OR and 4 grandchildren, Nickolaus, Tristan, Jackson and Caden. She is preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Gloria Newbill. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel (816) 373-3600)