Debra Lee Barton, 60 of Lithia, Florida passed away May 22, 2013 in Tampa Florida. She was surrounded by her family at her time of death and went peaceably into the presence of her Lord. She was born in Terre Haute, Indiana to Lillian and Emil Knowles on October 14, 1952.
She is survived by her husband of 38 years Mark Barton and sons Matthew, Andrew, and Jeremy; one brother Randy and sister Leesa. She has two daughters in law and 6 grandchildren.
Debbie was an active homemaker and loved entertaining friends and family. She was skilled at decorating and candle making and was an excellent cook. She loved horses and riding.
She moved to Florida in 1987 with her family and lived in the Lithia area her remaining years. Debbie, along with her husband, founded Sanctuary Youth Center and worked with teens and young adults for many years. They were pastors at Sanctuary Church and she became a second mom to many youth in the Lakeland area.
Memorial service will be held at Epic Church, 1115 E. Memorial Ave in Lakeland, Florida on Saturday June1 from 2 PM to 4 PM. Reverend Allen Sayers will officiate.
There will be no public graveside services. In lieu of flowers the family asks that a donation be made to a Lakeland Youth Ministry or youth organization of your choice.