Deborah (Debbie) Marie McCoy Black, 72, a longtime resident of Huntsville, Texas, was born in Dallas, Texas, to John Dee McCoy and Ermile Marie Walters McCoy. Debbie grew up alongside her three younger brothers, Mike McCoy (Barbara), Pat McCoy (Eilene), and John McCoy (Tonja).

In 1972, Debbie moved from Dallas to Huntsville to attend Sam Houston State University. Shortly after arriving, she met the love of her life, Albert Ray Black. They were married on May 1, 1976, beginning a beautiful life together rooted in faith, partnership, and unwavering devotion to family.

The very next day after their wedding, Debbie graduated from Sam Houston State University with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. That August, she began what would become a remarkable 41-year career with Huntsville ISD. Over four decades, Debbie touched the lives of hundreds of students across multiple campuses. She was known as one of the kindest and sweetest souls—an exceptional teacher, coworker, and friend. Debbie had a rare gift for connecting with every child she taught, making each one feel seen, valued, and loved.

When health challenges prevented her from remaining full-time in the classroom, Debbie continued her passion for literacy by volunteering with the A Time 2 Read program. This allowed her to keep doing what she loved most—helping children grow and succeed.

Debbie and Ray built a beautiful family together. They welcomed their first daughter, Michelle Marie Black Culak, on June 29, 1981; their second daughter, Stephanie Lynn Black Puente, on September 28, 1984; and on December 22, 1989, twin daughters Kimberly Ann Black and Kelsey Alene Black Carpentier. Debbie's love for her daughters was constant and steadfast, and she delighted in walking beside them through every stage of life.

A devoted and lifelong member of Calvary Baptist Church, Debbie faithfully served for nearly 45 years in the Children's Choir ministry, where she especially cherished leading children in prayer. She also found great joy in being part of the Senior Stars group, where Friday morning domino games became a treasured tradition. Debbie was active in Bible Study Fellowship, participated in water aerobics, and always looked forward to her monthly teacher lunches with dear friends.

Creative and talented, Debbie enjoyed sewing and quilting. Over the years, she lovingly crafted many quilts for her children and grandchildren—each stitch a reflection of her care and devotion.

Above all, Debbie's greatest passion was her family. Affectionately known as "Nana," she embraced her role with deep, steady love, becoming a constant source of warmth, encouragement, and unconditional support for her grandchildren. You could always find her in the stands—cheering at football, soccer, volleyball, tennis matches, band concerts, and dance performances. She especially loved music and treasured listening to her oldest grandchild play the piano.

In 2007, Debbie began what would become a nearly 20-year battle with cancer when she was diagnosed with Stage IV Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. After years in remission, she faced a new diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma with courage and faith. In 2025, she was diagnosed with pre-leukemia, which progressed to Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Through every trial, Debbie remained a warrior—full of strength, grace, and unwavering trust that God was in control. Her faith never wavered.

Debbie is survived by her devoted husband of 49 years, Ray Black; her four daughters, Michelle Culak and husband Tony, Stephanie Puente and husband Justin, Kelsey Carpentier and husband Corie, and Kimberly Black (who lovingly insists she was her favorite); and her beloved grandchildren: Anthony Culak, Caleb Culak, Elaine Culak, Dash Puente, Blaze Puente, Elijah Carpentier, Cora Carpentier, and Judah Carpentier. She is also survived by her brothers Mike McCoy (Barbara) and John McCoy (Tonja), and sister-in-law Eilene McCoy; and a host of cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Bernard and Dessie Walters and John and Fleta McCoy; her parents, John and Ermile McCoy; and her brother, Pat McCoy.

Debbie carried herself with grace and quiet strength. Though her body grew weary, her spirit remained strong. We find comfort in knowing she is now at peace—free from pain and suffering—completely healed and in the presence of her Savior.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Debbie's memory to the A Time 2 Read literacy program. Donations may be made online at www.atime2read.org or mailed to PO Box 7403, Huntsville, TX 77342.