Deborah Renfro Vance, a remarkable woman whose love shaped everyone, passed away on February 10, 2026, at the age of 70, after a hard-fought battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on June 5, 1955, in upstate New York, Deborah spent the majority of her life in Huntsville, Alabama, where she built a life centered on family, friendship, and service. She graduated from Grissom High School in 1973. After dedicating herself fully to raising her children, she courageously pursued her lifelong dream of becoming a nurse, graduating from Calhoun Community College in 1995. She began her nursing career in her 40s while battling breast cancer—facing that season with grace, grit, and unwavering determination.

Deborah was, in every sense of the word, remarkable—remarkable in her strength, remarkable in her honesty, and remarkable in the way she loved.

Her greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her daughters, Marcie (Donald) Lewis and Joanne (Greg) Shell; her cherished grandchildren, Morgan (Chase) Starnes, Jonah Snead, Ethan Lewis, and Nathan Shell; and her beloved boyfriend and devoted companion of ten years, Jerry Hinkle.

She is also survived by her brother, Jack (Marilyn) Renfro; sisters, Victoria (Benny) Pitsinger and Christie (Ray) Kubichan; along with a host of nieces, nephews, and countless others who proudly considered her their "bonus mom."

She was preceded in death by her parents and her precious daughter, Samantha Vance, whom she loved fiercely and carried in her heart always.

As a mom, she was devoted, protective, encouraging, and unapologetically honest. She never hesitated to share her opinion—especially if it involved what you "should've done"—but it was always rooted in love. As "Meme," she found pure joy in her grandchildren, celebrating every milestone and loving them with her whole heart.

As a nurse, she lived her calling. She cared deeply for her patients, advocated fiercely, and formed lasting bonds with coworkers who respected her compassion and strength. Nursing was not simply her career—it was her dream fulfilled.

She loved boldly, fought courageously, and smiled through tears. Her legacy is one of resilience, laughter, honesty, and unwavering love.

Visitation will be held Sunday from 3:00–4:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 4:00 p.m. at Berryhill Funeral Home. During the Celebration of Life, family and friends are invited to share their favorite memories and reflections. We hope it will be a time to honor the many ways Deborah impacted so many lives.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Not One More Alabama in Samantha's honor.