Deborah Lynn Wallen (Rice)

Deborah Lynn Wallen (nee Rice) was born on July 21, 1950 and passed from this life on January 18, 2021.

After a remark from her mother that she could be an artist one day, Deborah had found her calling at the tender age of four. Unusually focused and dedicated, she never wavered from that calling. She graduated from William Chrisman High School in the class of 1968; continually polishing the talent she was born with, Deborah eventually earned a Bachelor of Arts from Northwest Missouri State University. She was a member of several arts organizations including the Independence Art Association and the Pastel Society. She was the winner of numerous awards including Best in Show at the 2004 Missouri State Fair, and had a following of devoted patrons of her art.

Of all the beautiful works she created, her most treasured was the family she so cherished. Deborah is survived by her husband of 51 years. Jim Wallen was the love of her life. She supported him in all his endeavors, even becoming a lifetime member of River and Prairie Storyweavers, an organization he founded. They built careers and a life of service together. In October they were awarded the Volunteer of the Year award at their church Englewood Church of Independence.

Deborah is also survived by a daughter Cristi Rose, son-in-law Aaron Rose, four grandchildren Rebekah Canales (Kenan Canales), Jimmie Rose, Zachariah Rose (Sophia Yslas), and Catherine Callen (Taylor Callen), four great-grandchildren Tristen Jenkins, Kaiden Canales, Emily Rose, and Deborah Piper Callen, one brother Carl Rice, and one sister Jeanne Rice. She was preceded in death by her parents Charles and LaVerne (nee Pack) Rice and her parents-in-law Ivan and Joyce Wallen. Her family was the great masterpiece of her life. She worried, supported, prayed, and talked about them daily.

Little did she know, through her faith, empathy and friendship, God was created a beautiful masterpiece of her life. Her empathy and readiness to always pray earned her many lifelong friends, often made very quickly. All the connections, friendships, and bonds of love she cultivated became a stunning, colorful painting of a life admired by so very many today.

A visitation will be held from 2:00-3:30 p.m. Monday, January 25, 2021, with a memorial service to follow at 3:45 p.m., both at Englewood Church, 10628 E Winner Rd, Independence, MO 64052. The service will be videorecorded/livestreamed and additional details may be found at Englewoodchurch.org. Covid-19 protocol will be followed.

In her honor, the family suggests contributions to the Englewood Church or to River and Prairie Storyweavers, PO Box 25261, Kansas City, MO 64119.

Online condolences and fond memories may be left at www.speakschapel.com (Arr: Carson-Speaks Chapel 816-252-7900)