Deborah Kay Emery

Deborah Kay Emery 

May 7, 1954 – January 11, 2026

Deborah Kay Emery, known lovingly as Debi, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, at the age of 71.

Debi was born on May 7, 1954, in Nephi, Utah, to Marjorie Witt of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and was the cherished daughter of Marjorie and the beloved stepdaughter of William Witt (deceased). Although born in Utah, Debi spent much of her early life in California, where she grew up, married, and began raising her family. In 1993, Debi and her family relocated to Idaho, where they settled in and around the Coeur d'Alene area, a place that would remain home for the rest of her life.

While working at a fabric store in California, Debi met the love of her life, Steven Craig Emery. The two were quickly smitten, beginning a partnership grounded in devotion, faith, and love. Shortly after meeting, Steve became a Christian, followed by Debi, and together they chose to build their life on shared faith and commitment. They were married on March 7, 1981, and remained devoted to one another until Steve’s passing on February 26, 2012.

Debi was a woman of deep joy, warmth, and generosity. Her home was always open and welcoming, especially to the many friends of her children who found safety, laughter, and belonging there during their teenage years. She and Steve also opened their hearts and home to five foreign exchange students over the years, creating lifelong connections that spanned countries and cultures.

Creative to her core, Debi had a keen eye for beauty and home décor and a lifelong love of thrift stores. For a period of time, she ran Harmony Thrift, combining her love of community, creativity, and resourcefulness. She was also a gifted artist who created many beautiful paintings that her family will treasure always. She spoke fondly of the art classes she taught to young people, delighting in encouraging creativity and confidence in others.

In later years, Debi greatly enjoyed working as a hostess at Mulligan’s restaurant in Coeur d'Alene, where her joyful spirit shone brightly. She welcomed customers with genuine warmth and was known for her kindness, encouragement, and care toward her coworkers, whom she deeply loved.

Debi had a fondness for the color red, a detail many remember with a smile. One of her most treasured possessions was a red Crossfire sports car that Steve bought her, a symbol of his love and the joy they shared.

Above all else, Debi treasured her children. She devoted her life to homeschooling Jonathan, Benjamin, and Stephanie, pouring herself wholeheartedly into their education and growth. She provided rich opportunities for them to explore snow sports, music, business ventures, and friendships through homeschool co-op groups, fostering curiosity, independence, and lasting bonds.

Debi was a devoted and loving mother to Jonathan Emery of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho; Benjamin Emery (Paloma) of Seattle, Washington; and Stephanie Brett (Paul) of Melbourne, Australia. She was overjoyed to become a grandmother with the birth of Hannah Joy Brett on October 20, 2025, in Australia. Though her time with Hannah was brief, it was deeply treasured. Debi was able to spend Christmas with her granddaughter and was overjoyed at finally becoming a grandmother, a joy she spoke of with immense pride and gratitude.

She is also survived by her mother, Marjorie Witt of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho; her brothers, James Witt of San Francisco, California, and William “Bill” Witt of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

All who knew Debi loved her and will miss her dearly. She impacted countless people, young and old, with her warm hugs, encouraging words, and infectious smile. Her joy was genuine, her faith unwavering, and her love abundant.

Debi loved the Lord deeply and is now at peace, resting in the arms of her loving Savior and reunited with her beloved husband, Steve. Her legacy of faith, creativity, hospitality, and unconditional love will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.