Deborah Kathleen Hurt

Deborah "Debbie" Kathleen Hurt, 68 of Edmonton, KY passed away Wednesday, September 16,2026, at her home surrounded by her family. She was born December 11, 1957, to the late Garnett and Dorothy Fields Rajala. Besides her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Dale Hurt, sister Alice Rich, brother Lonnie England and sister-in-law Debbie England.

Debbie was a true people person with a big personality, a strong work ethic, and a way of making everyone feel like a friend. She never met a stranger, and if you spent any time around her, chances are you shared a laugh or two. Debbie loved to cut up and have a good time, but she was also the kind of woman who spoke her mind, you never had to wonder where you stood with her.

Working was something Debbie truly loved. She began waitressing at Jim’s Grill in 1970, where she spent many years serving folks in the community. When the restaurant was sold, Debbie took a leap of faith and purchased it herself. From 1990 until 1999, she proudly owned and operated Debbie’s Grill, a place where good food, familiar faces, and plenty of conversation could always be found.

She later went to work at Gene’s Freeze, where she spent 23 years as a waitress. Over the years, Debbie served countless meals and made countless friendships. She was especially known for making the absolute best coleslaw. Many may have tried to get that recipe from her, but Debbie never would give up her secret, and she took that secret right along with her.

When she wasn’t working, Debbie enjoyed the simple things in life. She loved shopping, grilling out, relaxing in the swimming pool, and soaking up the sunshine. But more than anything, she loved her children and grandchildren. Family get-togethers were especially dear to her, and there was nothing better than having everyone together, sharing food, laughter, and time with one another.

Debbie spent much of her life taking care of and serving others, but to her, it was never just a job. She genuinely loved people. Through all those years behind restaurant counters and tables, she became a familiar face and a friend to so many. Her quick wit, straightforward ways, laughter, and one-of-a-kind personality will be remembered by everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her children Sandy Jewell (Robert), Donnie Gearlds (Crystal), Derrick Crump (Megan), Sabrina Hurt, Alisa Seiler (Mike), Dale Hurt Jr. and Joseph Hurt, grandchildren Courtney Reece, Trevor Scott, Colton Scott, Hannah Gearlds, Madison Vickery, John Michael White, Destiny Gearlds, Hunter Gearlds, Natalie Shoultz, Addison Shoultz, Mattie Shoultz, Hadleigh Jones, Ezra Jones, Allison Dubree, Nathan Layton, Jordan Hurt, Maverick Hurt and Brooklyn Hurt, great grandchildren Millie, Jessalyn, Brycelen, Deklyn, Ivee and Blakelyn, two brothers Wayne England and Tommy England (June). She is also survived by several nieces, nephews and a host of friends. 

Funeral services for Debbie will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home in Edmonton with burial in the Metcalfe Co. Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 4:00PM until 8:00PM Friday and after 8:00AM Saturday here at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Butler Funeral Home for funeral expenses. 

Butler Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted to the care of Mrs. Hurt.