August 26, 1949 - January 17, 2026
Debby Durham passed away peacefully on the evening of January 17, 2026, surrounded by all of her loving family. Known by many and cherished by all who knew her, Debby lived a life defined by kindness, generosity, and an unwavering passion for helping others - both people and animals alike. Her warm smile, compassionate heart, and tireless giving spirit touched countless lives in Fremont, Omaha, and beyond. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for the love and light she brought to the world.
Debby is survived by her devoted son, Matt Milligan (Ashley) and loving daughter, Molly Milligan (Shine Adams); her three beloved grandchildren, Ava, Cole, and Grace, who were the joy of her life; her brother, Steve Durham; and her sisters, Sunny Lundgren and Lindy Boyer. She was preceded in death by her parents, Chuck and Margre Durham.
Born in Omaha, Nebraska, on August 26, 1949, Debby spent the last 50 years in Fremont, NE, calling it home since 1975. A proud graduate of the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, she earned her degree in Education in 1971. She began her career teaching grade school children as an early educator for two years, where her natural nurturing instincts shone brightly. After the births of her children, Molly and Matt, she devoted herself fully to motherhood and homemaking, creating a loving home filled with warmth and care.
Debby's heart for service extended far beyond her family - she was a steadfast community volunteer and advocate for those in need. She passionately supported social programs, medical initiatives, the arts, and especially animal welfare through her generous giving and hands-on kindness. Her deep love for animals inspired her to help improve the lives of pets and strays, always believing every creature deserved compassion and a second chance. Whether through quiet acts of support or broader community efforts, Debby gave selflessly, putting others first and making the world a gentler, more caring place.
A memorial service to celebrate Debby's life will be held at Fremont Presbyterian Church, 520 West Linden Avenue, Fremont, NE 68025, Monday, January 26th, at 10:30 a.m. Debby would have loved if, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her memory to organizations that reflected her deep commitment to caring for others and supporting those in need: Care Corps' LifeHouse in Fremont, Nebraska (providing shelter, food, clothing, case management, and life skills to those facing homelessness and poverty) - www.lifehousene.org; Open Door Mission in Omaha, Nebraska (empowering men, women, and families to break the cycle of homelessness through shelter, resources, meals, and transformational support) - www.opendoormission.org
Debby's legacy of love, caring, and giving will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. May she rest in peace, knowing the profound difference she made.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
To view the service live please visit the church facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/presbyterianchurchfremont/
Condolences(24)
Kathleen Zuchniak
Omaha, NE Tuesday, February 3, 2026 My deepest sympathy on the passing of Deb, to her family and dear friends. I will miss her Christmas cards, they were always filled with love. Deb was a beautiful rare gem of a person, that was able to light up and add sparkle to the lives she touched. May she rest in peace.Kathy Spicer
Ames, NE Friday, January 30, 2026 Awe Debbie, Bless Your Heart…Was just admiring your beautiful Christmas card. We’ve know you for over 20 yrs and so appreciated your heart. Our children enjoy trail rides with you, their Grandma Raye & friend Pam. Oh for the love of horses! You leave a wonderful legacy that lives on through your children, grandchildren & all of the amazing causes you supported. Rest well in the arms of Jesus. Prayers for peace & comfort for your family.
Kathy Spicer
Ames, NE Tuesday, January 27, 2026 Awe Debbie, Bless Your Heart…Was just admiring your beautiful Christmas card. We’ve know you for over 20 yrs and so appreciated your heart. Our children enjoy trail rides with you, their Grandma Raye & friend Pam. Oh for the love of horses! You leave a wonderful legacy that lives on through your children, grandchildren & all of the amazing causes you supported. Rest well in the arms of Jesus. Prayers for peace & comfort for your family.
Kathy Spicer
Ames, NE Tuesday, January 27, 2026 Awe Debbie, Bless Your Heart…Was just admiring your beautiful Christmas card. We’ve know you for over 20 yrs and so appreciated your heart. Our children enjoy trail rides with you, their Grandma Raye & friend Pam. Oh for the love of horses! You leave a wonderful legacy that lives on through your children, grandchildren & all of the amazing causes you supported. Rest well in the arms of Jesus. Prayers for peace & comfort for your family.
Stacy Mears
North Bend, NE Monday, January 26, 2026 I am so saddened to see this. I just saw Debby before Christmas. I have had the pleasure of being Debby's hairdresser over the last 10+ years. I enjoyed her monthly visits as she always filled the room with positivity and excitement. She was so passionate about so many things and her joy for life shone brightly. She always had encouragement and wisdom to pass along to me and I will miss seeing her. She always spoke so fondly of her kids and grandkids so I hope they always remember how much they were loved. I hope you rest easy Debby, I have no doubt you are in the best place now.-Stacy
Kathy Spicer
Ames, NE Monday, January 26, 2026 Awe Debbie, Bless Your Heart…Was just admiring your beautiful Christmas card. We’ve know you for over 20 yrs and so appreciated your heart. Our children enjoy trail rides with you, their Grandma Raye & friend Pam. Oh for the love of horses! You leave a wonderful legacy that lives on through your children, grandchildren & all of the amazing causes you supported. Rest well in the arms of Jesus. Prayers for peace & comfort for your family.
Hal ans Mary Daub
Omaha, NE Saturday, January 24, 2026 Mary and I were for many years early exchangers of Christmas holiday greetings with Debbie. We enjoyed Debby’s card and message just a few weeks ago. We have always admired her Fremont and greater Omaha quiet engagement and observed her generous heart and philanthropy. Her friendship was valued and in this time of great personal loss, we extend our condolences and sympathies to her family, and to those friends and organizations who knew and appreciated all she supported. Hal DaubDuane and Judi McKenzie
Fremont, NE Friday, January 23, 2026 Debby was a strong woman and will be missed by everyone that knew her.Mary hendrickson
Coronado, CA Thursday, January 22, 2026 To the family of Debby , how lucky you are to have had Debby for your mom. Treasure your memories of this beautiful mom. Please know of my thoughts and prayersMary hendrickson
Fremont/coronado
Jean Chalupsky
Omaha, NE Thursday, January 22, 2026 Rest in Peace. You’ve made an impact on this earth. We became friends with animals in common. I’ll miss your words of wisdomand guidance. Thank you for your friendship. My sincere condolences to your family.
Linda Pipher Thorsell
Bend, OR Thursday, January 22, 2026 So sad to hear of Debbie’s passing. Such a pure soul and giving heart. Enjoyed singing with her in the Top Choir at Westside High School many years ago. Her kindness and loving way will be missed by so many. But oh the great memories we have of her. My deepest condolences and prayers go out to her family. God Bless. 💕🙏🏻Duane and Judi McKenzie
Fremont, NE Thursday, January 22, 2026 Debby was a strong woman and will be missed by everyone that knew her.Dr. Candace Gregory
Council Bluffs, IA Thursday, January 22, 2026 Debby always had time to share her wisdom and listening ear. I will always remember her encouraging and kind words for me as a young woman in leadership. Debby had an overflowing compassion for those experiencing homelessness and poverty. May God comfort her family and loved ones with his presence , love and great memories.Akin Tosyali
Lincolnshire, IL Thursday, January 22, 2026 I was so sorry to hear about the passing of Debby. She was a longtime family friend and will always be remembered for her kindness and the special place she held in our lives. Please know that our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. Wishing you comfort, peace, and strength as you remember and celebrate her life.Eileen & Bob Thornburg
Fremont, NE Wednesday, January 21, 2026 Matt, Molly & family,We are so sorry for your loss. Your mom so loved family & Fremont. She leaves a legacy as reflected by her generous support in numerous ways.
Our thoughts & prayers are with you.
Sincerely,
Eileen & Bob Thornburg
Amy Oetter
Omaha, NE Wednesday, January 21, 2026 Debby came into my life in 1999 in the most unexpected way.I was a young deputy sheriff in Dodge County when I was called to her home for a destruction-of-property complaint involving her fence. When Debby opened the door, I remember feeling it immediately—her positive power, her warmth, her presence. She was genuinely thrilled to meet me because I was the first female deputy sheriff, and in that moment something clicked. We didn’t just have a pleasant interaction; we had a bond. And from that one call, a strong friendship began.
My life is better because Debby was part of it.
I loved hearing her talk about her kids and grandkids. She lit up when she spoke about them—always proud, always grateful, always overflowing with love. Debby had a philanthropic heart that showed up in the way she lived every day, and her passion for all creatures made the world gentler and better. She had a way of caring that didn’t seek attention—it was simply who she was.
Debby was more than a friend. She was a powerful role model. She reminded me what strength looks like when it’s paired with kindness, and what it means to leave people and places better than you found them.
Thank you, Debby, for your friendship, your light, and the example you set. I will carry you with me—always.
You will be deeply missed.
Amy & Matt Skipper
Fort Worth, TX Wednesday, January 21, 2026 So sorry for you loss. We are thinking about you and your family.Denise Richards
Fremont, NE Wednesday, January 21, 2026 Debby was such a powerhouse and a huge part of Fremont. She quietly, behind the scenes, supported so many groups and people. She never asked for glory or recognition. To Debby's family, you can be assured she has earned her seat at God's table for eternity. Thank you, Debby, for your life of service to this community. You will be dearly missed and never forgotten. (Darlys Kopisch also wanted to send her condolences.)Carol Jardine Dworak
OMAHA, NE Wednesday, January 21, 2026 I am so very sorry about Debby's passing. Please accept my sincere condolences. Debby's mother Marge Durham was a beloved Sorority Sister in the Omaha Gamma Phi Beta Alumnae Group and I wanted to remember Debby and Marge with a donation to the Open Door Mission.Bill and Evonne Williams
Omaha, NE Wednesday, January 21, 2026 We are saddened by the passing of Debby. She was supportive of our non-profit Patriotic Productions and enjoyed working with her. Looked forward to receiving her Christmas card with a family photo.It was a life lived full. Evonne and I are sorry for your loss.
Karoly Mirnics
Omaha, NE Tuesday, January 20, 2026 We had only one meeting, a few month ago. Yet, I will forever remember your kindness and smile - you left a lifetime of impression on my soul. You and your generosity made a difference in the life of children with autism, providers and the community. Your amazing legacy lives on. We will all miss you greatly, you are one of a kind! Rest in peace, Debby.Barry C Reker
Fremont, NE Tuesday, January 20, 2026 Debby was a generous kind and caring person, being one of John C Fremont Days most reliable donors.She was also very generous as a donor for the Bob Bruner Memorial Fishing Derby. Allowing many area families to learn fishing, and how to enjoy the great outdoors for recreation and family solidarity!
Her willingness to share of the Debby Durham Family Foundation was unwavering...Thank you from the bottom of my heart...your generosity and kindness, will be greatly missed by many
Barry C Reker
Past President John C Fremont Days
Co-coordinator of the Bob Bruner Memorial Fishing Derby
Rick Harris
Omaha, NE Tuesday, January 20, 2026 Thoughts and prayers to the entire family- I worked at Debby’s house a lot of times , she was a special lady- we chatted a lot - she would give me tickets for my wife and her mom to go out , when my wife died she was so supportive, we talked a lot about my wife- Tammy passed away January 17 , and now I can’t believe Debby passed away on January 17 ! Debby was a unique and special woman- prayers to the family 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻Joann Williams
Fremont, NE Tuesday, January 20, 2026 Matt Mollie and families I was deeply saddened to hear about your mom. She was a great person and did many great things for people everywhere. I taught second grade Sunday school with your mom at the Presbyterian church for years and would always enjoyed seeing and talking with both of you after Sunday school when you’d come up to ride home with your mom. God Bless and take care. Sincerely Joann Williams