Debra Russell Bowland, 65, passed away on December 22nd in her home with her family at her side.

Debi was born on January 24, 1944 in Basin, Wyoming to Bill and Helen Russell.&bsp; She graduated from Basin High School and attended the University of Wyoming where she was married to her husband, George Bowland, in 1964.

After spending time as a Mom raising her three kids, Debi enjoyed a successful career in the political arena.&bsp; She followed her passion of championing conservative causes her entire life.&bsp; Debi served as Secretary of Labor for Governors of both Louisiana and Ohio. She also proudly served in Washington as a political appointee for President Ronald Reagan and President George H. W. Bush.

George and Debi retired in 2002 and moved to the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina where she spent her days reshaping her role into Nana for her seven grandchildren. &bsp;

Debi will be remembered by her family as a dedicated Wife, Mom and Nana.&bsp; She will be remembered for her unconditional love of everyone in her family and the positive impact she made on everyone she touched.&bsp; Debi is survived by her husband George, her three children: Tracy, Todd and Tara, and her seven grandchildren: Jesselyn, Matthew, John Todd, Anna Catherine, Alexis, Haley and Saxon. &bsp;

Debi will be missed very much, but her everlasting love will be felt in our hearts forever.