Deborah Antweil Obituary

Debbie Antweil, the beautiful and beloved “Cleopatra” to Barry Antweil for over 40 years, joined her dearly missed parents, grandparents, and previously departed friends on the eternal side of life on July 10, 2025. She passed away on the heels of her “favorite brother-in-law,” Perkins Brasher, allowing Oliver Maxwell, Gary McDaniel, and David Eyler a very short window of opportunity to claim that title.

Deborah Theresa entered the world as the first daughter of Roger & Shirley Clendenen on December 3, 1946, in Pensacola, Florida. Her soft blond curls, dancing green eyes, and charming smile captivated anyone fortunate enough to meet her. But it was her heart of gold and huge capacity to love that nurtured her five little sisters while growing up in Hobbs, New Mexico. She enthusiastically devoted herself to her role as Big Sister, never complaining (until recently to get attention) about keeping all five herded in the right direction while Shirley and Roger worked long hours to provide for a busy houseful of girls. She perfected the use of orange-juice-can curlers, hosted the most memorable garage dances, and turned heads with her iconic style. Little sisters Denise Brasher, Rebecca Maxwell, Kelly McDaniel, Erin Dean, and Allison Eyler will carry on with the chaos and chatter until we are all singing “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” together in heaven.

Mothering came naturally to Debbie. Every newborn was at home in her arms. She could soothe colic and coax a baby’s first giggles. The births of her very own daughters in the 60’s brought order and joy to a tumultuous decade and sealed her fate as matriarch. Wendi Paige and Raney McRae (Watkins) inherited her natural beauty, tenacity, and fierce dedication to family. She parented them with unshaken practicality, grounded in common sense, clarity, and steadfast love. The fruits of that love are ten cherished grandchildren: Alexandra Spence, Reese Russell, Tanner Spence (Megan), Daniel Samaniego (Christina), Dr. Katie Samaniego, Dylan Davis, Emily Samaniego, Brennan Dees (E.J.), and Jax and Tripp Bradley. Debbie’s legacy as “Grandma” is safe in the hearts of her nine great-grandchildren: Hennley Spence, Kobe Wiltz, Briar VanHoosier, Ezra Samaniego, Adeline Spence, Emerald and Amethyst VanHoosier, and Atlas and River Dees. Many will long for another chance to sit and visit, most especially her son-in-law, Joey Bolton, other family and lifelong friends, and a host of nieces and nephews who lovingly referred to her as “Aunt Debbie.” 

God blessed Debbie with Barry, a good-hearted man who matched her boundless generosity, biting sarcasm, and insatiable quest for the perfect hamburger. They defied the odds that were stacked against a marriage between a Catholic girl with children and a Jewish boy with status. Although they were gifted boxing gloves from a friend on their wedding day, they joyfully and faithfully lived out their covenantal wedding vows to each other for forty years. Self-sacrifice, faith in God, and a healthy mix of romance and clashing of opinions sanctified their love for each other. There was no place Debbie would rather be than with Barry, although the dog park with Annie, her pampered poodle, was a close second. Legendary tales about Debbie and Barry will be retold for decades to come, prompting heartfelt chuckles and a nostalgic longing for family.

Barry will host a private celebration in honor of Debbie’s life in August. Please reach out to a family member for details.

Debbie stepped so gracefully into the next life, reassuring us that God is faithful in His promises.

Debbie is in the care of Canon Funeral Home.