Debra R. Halsted

ROCKFORD – Debra R. Halsted, age 70, of Rockford passed away peacefully Tuesday August 8, 2023. Born in Rockford on September 25, 1952 daughter of Richard L. & Jessie R. (McNabb) Keckler Sr. As a young girl, Debi pitched for the Jets on the Kenrock Community Center slow pitch softball league. She met her soulmate and love of her life, Fred Halsted; they married at the Cathedral of St. Peter in 1975. Debi worked nearly her whole career as a Licensed Practical Nurse at River Bluff Nursing Home, where she cared deeply for her patients and truly cherished her work friendships, continuing to stay in touch and have monthly luncheons even after her retirement. A devoted and proud member of Holy Family Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, she enjoyed bible study, making rosaries, volunteering at the Adoration Chapel and regularly contributing and donating food, prayers and time to Corpus Christi Monastery and the Poor Clare Colettine Nuns. A selfless servant to her family and 24-hour on-call NaNa, she loved spoiling her grandchildren and even Fred from time to time; enjoying trips to local apple orchards, the Boone County Fair, shopping for the necessities, attending grandchildren's games and events and cooking and baking with the littles; family was her true pride and joy. Debi will be missed for her honest, patient, kind and caring spirit; her calm, soft spoken but strong willed demeanor; witty sense of humor; being an exceptional listener; a trusted confidant; and always having an encouraging word for anyone in need. Beloved wife, mother, NaNa, sister and dear friend; she will remain forever in our hearts.

She is survived by her loving husband of 48 years, Frederick A. Halsted Jr.; son, Steve (Julia) Halsted; grandchildren, Adelein, Andrew and Anabel; siblings, Ron "Glenn" (late Patricia) Keckler, Richard (late Della) Keckler and Karen (late Bill) Bair; brothers and sisters-in-law; Angie (late Jerry) Pobjecky, Linda (Don) Klagues, Chuck (Dawn) Halsted and Kris (Clark) Runyard; numerous nieces and nephews; best friend; Sister Mary Margaret of Poor Clare Colettine Nuns; many dear work and church friends; and beloved goldendoodle, Ruby. She is predeceased by her son, Nicholas Halsted; brother, Michael Keckler; father and mother-in-law, Frederick & Ann Hasted Sr.; and her parents.

Mass of Christian Burial held Tuesday August 22, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Road, Rockford, with visitation from 10:00 AM until the time of Mass at 11:00 AM. Interment at Calvary Cemetery, Rockford. Christenson Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Memorials to the Family.

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