Debra Sue Daniels was born to Nellie Ruth and Willie B. Daniels on December 30th, 1955 in Ogden, UT. On August 14, 2026, Debra finally surrendered after a long and difficult battle with Alzheimer’s disease in Salt Lake City, UT. For those who knew Debra, they will recall a joyful and kind spirit who was eager to connect the disconnected and uplift the fallen. A graduate of Utah State, Debra completed her academic career with a master’s of social work from the University of Utah in 1984 and eventually an LCSW. In a career spanning more than 40 years Debra worked as assistant executive director of the YWCA for more than a decade, clinical director of the Rape Recovery Center, (who in 2024 awarded Debra with the Pillar of Hope at their 50th anniversary gala) and from 2003 until her retirement in 2020 Debra held the role as director of the Women’s Resource Center and eventually became the vice president of the women’s enrollment initiative. As recently as 2024, almost half a decade after her retirement, Debra was awarded the Pillar of Hope award by the Rape Recovery Center as part of their 50th anniversary gala and the Dr. Kristen Reese award from the Utah Pride Center. Debra believed that a just world was possible for everyone and that belief can be felt in the impact left by her work and the lives touched by her commitment to helping others, in particular women from communities of color. Ever the social butterfly, Debra rarely met a stranger. With a generous and warm spirit she amassed a tremendous network of friends, associates, and colleagues – with numerous close friendships lasting more than 30, and is some cases, 40+ years. However, nothing meant more to Debra than family. She is preceded in death by her wife and partner of 30+ years, Johna Gustin and, her parents, and four brothers. Debra is survived by several nieces and nephews, her two sons, and her youngest brother. Family members and friends may pay respects and participate in Debra’s celebration of life on Friday August 28th, 2026, from 6:00-7:30pm, doors will open at 5:00pm, at Myers Mortuary, 845 Washington Blvd, Ogden, UT 84405. Friends and family are invited to share photos and memories of Debra on her memorial page at www.myers-mortuary.com/obituaries/debra-daniels. Services entrusted to Myers Mortuary in Ogden, Utah.