Deborah Ann Houston, né Croteau, 75, of Apopka Florida passed away on Saturday, July 13,2024 at home, following a valiant 10 year fight with cancer. She was born in Lillington, Harnett County, North Carolina in 1949 to Andrew and Mary Croteau. She was married to, and is survived by, Mark R. Houston, her husband of 55 years. They moved to the Orlando Area in 1973 following his service in the U.S. Air Force. She was the long-time manager of the Edgewood Children’s Ranch Thrift Store, benefiting the Edgewood Children’s Ranch for over 30 years. She is survived by her husband, Mark R. Houston, daughter, Shelly A. Houston and Grandsons Ethan Morgan Tessinari and Trenton Christian Tessinari, all of Apopka, Florida. She is also survived by her mother, Mary G. Kosinski, Canterbury, Pennsylvania and sister, Wanda Miller, Lakeland, Florida. The family will hold a memorial service at a later date.
This heritage started 67 years ago with Pastor Herbert F. Loomis, who founded the First Baptist Church of Daytona Beach, Florida, in 1934. In 1938 Francis E. Loomis, son of Pastor Herbert F. Loomis, received his license to practice Mortuary Science and in 1941 established Loomis Funeral Home of Winter Garden, FL. 
420 W Main St
Apopka, FL 32712-3452
Lisa Eldridge says
God rest your sweet soul, my dear dear friend, Debbie. Our years together at the thrift store were full of the best friendship. We had fun, my sons still have such good memories of our time together there.
I will miss you til I see you again.
Love,
Lisa
DeDee Headley says
Debbie Houston was loved by all that met her. Her personality would light up a room when she walked in. She loved her family, especially her two grandsons ❤️ I volunteer at the Hope Center that used to be the Edgewood Thrift Store and people still ask about her. She made a huge impact on many people and I am one of them. Prayers for her families ❤️🥰🙏
Laurie Schneider says
Mark, Shelly, and boys I am so sorry to hear about Debbie. She was such an amazing friend, and boss anyone would ever want. She always looked on the bright side of everything good or bad. She was always in my thoughts these many years later.
Rhonda Gallant says
May peace find your hearts in knowing she is no longer suffering but rejoicing. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Remember the smiles and laughter.
Kathy Weagraff says
Debbie was the best at the Edgewood’s Thrift Store. She would encourage my students who came to work with her. Debbie let the girls have a fashion show for Debbie and I to enjoy! I loved working with her and shopping at the Thrift Store. She truly was an asset to Edgewood’s Thrift Store. Mark and family I am so sorry for your loss. May God bring you comfort and peace.
Love and prayers,
Kathy