Debra Sue Gurule
Debra Sue Gurule, the unwavering rock and glue of her family, passed away peacefully at her home on April 1, 2026, surrounded by the deep love of her children and grandchildren.
Debra was born on September 24, 1959, in Marysville, California, to William Hankins and Odie Faye Brown. Raised in Ogden, Utah, she attended Lewis Elementary, where she formed lifelong bonds with her best friends, Della, Fawn, and Carla. They were sisters at heart and remained inseparable through all of life’s seasons.
A woman of remarkable work ethic, Debra was a dedicated employee throughout her life. In her younger years, she was a familiar face at the Gibson store. She later brought her kindness and diligence to the Midtown Clinic and eventually became a vital asset to Halliburton, where she worked faithfully until her retirement.
In 1975, Debra welcomed her son, Jeremy, during her marriage to Gerard Gurule. She later found her longtime companion in Christopher Herrick, and together they grew their family with two daughters, Kristen and Audrey.
To her family, Debra was everything. She was the steady hand through every storm and the heart of every gathering. Her life was defined by the fierce love and deep pride she felt for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Debra’s legacy lives on through her children:
Jeremy (Tiffany) Gurule, Kristen Herrick, Audrey (Brayan) Herrick.
She was the cherished Nana to Jerrica (Anthony), Anthony (Lorena), Isabel (Ray), Angelina (Blake), Emory, Katelynn (JR), and Miracle. Her light continues to shine through her 11 great-grandchildren.
She is also survived by her father, William Hankins, and stepmother, Carol Hankins and her brothers: Kelly (Jo) Dixon, Kim (Nellie) Hughes, Bobby (Sam) Hughes.
Debra was preceded in death by her mother, Faye Hughes; her companion, Christopher Herrick, her sister, Judy Peterson; her brother, Ricky Hughes; and her dear friend, Della Barfuss. A celebration of life will be held on June 27th at Golden Spike Park in Riverdale, Utah 4 to 9 PM.