Debbra Sue Heckwine, 67, of Taylorville, IL, passed away at St. John’s Hospital on October 20, 2025. She was born on May 16, 1958, in Taylorville to Albert Joseph and Barbara Joann (Elliott) McWhorter. She married Scott Whitehead on January 14, 1977, and later divorced.
Debbra graduated from Pawnee High School in 1976, and from Capital Area Vocational Center in 1978. She later extended her education at Millikin University in Decatur, IL, something she was very proud of. She worked as an LPN (licensed practical nurse) for over forty years and cared deeply for her patients. Debbra was strong in her faith. She loved reading her Bible and was an active member of Faith Community Worship Center in Taylorville, IL. She was an avid Cubs fan and loved watching NASCAR races, especially Jeff Gorden. She attended many concerts over the years and enjoyed listening to music but above all, she cherished the time spent with her family.
She is survived by her children: Stacey (James) Whitehead-Denton of Taylorville, IL; Dustin Whitehead of Bluffs, IL; grandchildren: Chase Denton; Brennan (Peyton) Whitehead; Kyleigh Whitehead; Lexi Whitehead; Liam Whitehead; great-grandchild: Elizabeth Whitehead; her mother: Barbara McWhorter of Taylorville, IL; as well as her siblings: Diane (Phil) Cochrane, Highland, CA; Katheryn (J.R.) Dickerson of Springfield, IL; and two nieces: Jamie (Eric) Miller of Arcola, IL; and Darlene (Willie) Weigle of Renton, WA.
She was welcomed into heaven by her father: Albert McWhorter; daughter: Stephanie Whitehead; grandson: Gabriel Alexander Whitehead; sister: Peggy Habian; and her nephew: Robert Wilson.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A graveside service will be held the following day, Friday, October 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.
Memorials may be made to Debbra’s family to assist with expenses.
Sutton Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at suttonmemorialhome.com.
