Debbie D. Glessner

Debbie Dalene Glessner, beloved wife, mom, nana, and friend, passed away Thursday, March 23 at the age of 67.

Debbie was born February 5, 1956 to Dale and Maxine (Arnett) Cowdin of Dwight. Debbie lived her entire life in the Dwight community and grew up enjoying small-town living where she played softball, was a cheerleader, participated in Girl Scouts, hung out at the family owned Cowdin's Standard Service Station, was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, and had a special fondness for Elvis. Debbie was a graduate of Council Grove High School (Class of 1974) and met the love of her life, Donald Glessner, at Lucy's, the local high school hang out. They married shortly after, on June 21, 1974. 

Debbie was a beautiful woman of many talents and passions, but her greatest love was undoubtedly for her family. Donald and Debbie raised two wonderful children, LeeAnn, and Cody, and were blessed with five grandchildren. Debbie loved nothing more than spending time with her family, whether it was attending her kids' and grandchildrens' sporting events, preparing home cooked meals, or just simply enjoying each other's company. Summer was her favorite time of the year where she would spend time working in her flower beds, sitting on the deck listening to the birds sing, or on her front porch where she loved the feeling of calmness and relaxation.

In addition to her role as a devoted wife, mom, and nana, Debbie held many roles throughout her life. She worked at the Morris County Courthouse in her early years, at Charlene's in downtown Council Grove, and she also babysat for many years for local friends and family. She always had a special place in her heart for her "kids'' and they all loved their Aunt Debbie – there was nothing like Aunt Debbie's hugs. 

Most recently, Debbie was known throughout the community for her years of service at the Farmers COOP, also known as MKC, in Alta Vista. She worked at the Farmers COOP/MKC the last 28 years and recently retired in January 2023. Debbie was looking forward to spending more time with her husband and family, scrapbooking for her grandchildren, and she had big dreams of re-landscaping her backyard.

Debbie touched the lives of so many. Above all else, she will be remembered for her contagious smile and her unwavering love and devotion to her family. She never missed an opportunity to express her love and affection for those closest to her, often saying, "I love you to the moon and back." Her kindness, generosity, and warm spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. 

Debbie was preceded in death by her infant brother Ronnie, father Dale, and brother Dennis. Debbie is survived by her mom, Maxine Cowdin, of Dwight; husband, Donald, of the home; her children, LeeAnn Taylor and husband, Ryan, and Cody Glessner of Dwight; her grandchildren, Treyton, Caden, Macelyn, and Reegan Taylor, and Owen Glessner. She is also survived by her siblings, Larry Cowdin and wife, Linda, of Manhattan; Margaret Shifflett and husband, Bill, of Wichita; Randy Cowdin and wife, Debra, of Wichita; Rod Cowdin and wife, Sandi, of Dwight; and sister-in-law, Nancy of New Jersey; along with many nieces and nephews. 

A visitation for family and friends will be held Sunday, April 2 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Sawyer Funeral Home in Council Grove. Graveside services will be held Monday, April 3 at 11 a.m. at the Dwight Cemetery. Those who wish to visit with the family after the service will gather at the Dwight United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.  

Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.