Debra Lee Jackson, 68, left on her journey to be with her relatives on November 13th, 2025. Born on August 29th, 1957, down at Jackson Hole along the Sheyenne River, she was the beloved daughter of Ignatius M. Jackson Sr. and Sadie R. (Smith) Jackson. Debra was the third youngest of eight children, growing up with three sisters, four brothers, and an adopted brother.

Debra graduated from Four Winds High School in 1974 and lived her life boldly, joyfully, and on her own terms. She began dancing in powwows at a young age and went on to become a champion Fancy Dancer, respected for her talent and dedication. Debra loved pool and darts, winning several pool tournaments while living in Wisconsin. She enjoyed the competition, the fun, and the friendships she made along the way. She also loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing along the lakes and rivers where she grew up. Later in life Debra found peace in gardening, growing food from her own hands to share with her family and friends. She was a wonderful grandma, known for showering her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with love and gifts, and she treasured every moment with them.

Debra’s strength showed in many ways throughout her life. She was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at just 19 years old, yet she never let it define her. Over the years, she went through many treatments, including several surgeries and gold injections. She later battled meningitis and underwent double hip surgery and open-heart surgery. Through every challenge, she remained strong and resilient, qualities her family admired deeply. Her children supported her through it all, taking her to appointments, helping her through surgeries and recoveries, and staying by her side. She was grateful for everything they did and proud of the care they gave her. Debra was a strong woman, brave, determined, and unbroken by the hardships she faced.

Debra is survived by Joseph Jackson Sr., Gail Jackson, Lacie Jackson, and Dwight (Darian) Jackson, Skylee Driver, Jaymison Jackson, Chad Driver Jr., Alanis Jackson, Joseph Jackson Jr., Cassidy Driver, Grady Jackson, Hans Driver, Ayden Jackson, Lorant Jackson, Jewel Driver, Colter Jackson, Navi Jackson, and Dagen Jackson. Parker Jackson-Dauphinais, Taven Driver, Peter Driver, Asontae Jackson-Whitebuffalo, and Walker Driver- Charboneau; her Godchildren, Ignatius “Pugsely” Jackson and Dorothia Santos; her siblings, Burton Jackson and Phyllis Jackson; special friends, Clarice Lawrence and Ester Ironhawk.

Debra now rejoins her loved ones in the Spirit World. Her parents, Ignatius Jackson and Sadie Jackson; brothers, Philip “Buzzy” Jackson, Ignatius “Ping” Jackson Jr., Adrian Jackson and her adopted brother, Billy Fox; sisters, Claudette “Yiya” Ross and Paula “Piya” Goulet; grandparents, Michael Jackson, and Lilian Chase, and her eldest son, Dustin Jackson; special friend, Jennifer (Feather) Drake.

Pallbearers: Joseph Jackson Sr. ~ Dwight Jackson ~ Grady Jackson~ Pernell Jackson Sr. ~ Ayden Jackson ~ Lorant Jackson ~ Joseph Jackson Jr. ~ Philmore Jackson

Honorary Bearers: Clarice (Josie) Lawrence ~ Ester Ironhawk ~ Carol Black ~ Rena (John) Lohnes ~ Arthur (Carla) Carmona ~ Helena Littleghost ~ Duane Jackson Sr. ~ Evelyn Jackson~ Morris (Daisy) Azure ~ Mitch (Dixie) Omen ~ Larse Azure Sr. ~ Darian (Dwight) Jackson ~ Phaedra Jackson ~ David “Digger” Azure Jr. ~ All her relatives and friends

Debra’s Wake/Visitation will be Wednesday, at 5:00PM followed by a Prayer Service at 7:00PM all at St. Michael Rec. Center, St. Michael, ND. 

Friends wishing to join the procession from Debra’s Home may gather on the road in front of her home, prior to 4:00PM.

A Funeral Service will beheld Thursday, November, 20, 2025, at 10:00AM at St. Michael Rec. Center, St. Michael, ND.

Her Burial will be at the St. Michael Cemetery.