Deborah Leeds

Deborah “Debbie” Kay Taylor Leeds, 78, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2026, at Morris County Hospital in Council Grove, Kansas, surrounded by loved ones after a prolonged illness.

Debbie was born on October 7, 1947, to Robert and JoAn Taylor in Council Grove. Her childhood was shaped by the closeness of her family, her love of riding horses, and her lifelong care for animals. She graduated from Council Grove High School in 1965 and later attended Crumbs Beauty School in Topeka, Kansas, before returning home to Council Grove.

On June 5, 1966, Debbie married the love of her life, Floyd Leeds. Shortly after their marriage, they moved to Seattle, Washington, where they lived for a time before returning to Kansas to begin their family. Together, they were blessed with four children — twin sons and two daughters. While raising her children, Debbie worked at the Hays House as a bartender and. Except for brief periods living in Topeka and Seattle, Debbie spent her entire life in Council Grove, on the family property where she grew up and which she cherished deeply.

Family was the center of Debbie’s world. She adored her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with fierce devotion. Known lovingly as Nanny, she was a wonderful cook who never forgot a favorite dish, preparing special meals for birthdays, holidays, and every occasion that brought her family together. She was a strong, smart, independent woman and she will be greatly missed.

Debbie was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd, on September 21, 2025.

She is survived by her children: James Leeds (Carolyn), Jason Leeds (Jennifer), Michelle Marquez (Russell), and Amanda Leeds-Pavone; grandchildren: Dow Leeds (Summer), Samantha Stephens, Tyra Chrest (Tylar), Mathew Chrest, Brecken Floyd Leeds (Maddie), Deegan Leeds, Taylor Marquez, Ali Marquez, Colton “Dez” Pavone (Haley), Larry Pavone, Cristian Pavone, and Eric Witmer; great-grandchildren: April Leeds, Aurora Leeds, River Leeds, Alyssa Stephens, Rossen Leeds, Rawlie Leeds, Morgan Chrest, Barrett Chrest, Oliver Floyd Pavone, Henry Pavone, Harper Pavone, and Ember Pavone.

A celebration of Debbie’s life will be held at a later date. The family invites all who knew and loved her to join in honoring her memory.

Memorial contributions may be made to Council Grove Senior Center. They may be sent in care of Sawyer Funeral Home, PO Box 273, Council Grove, KS 66846.