Debra Jane (Koenigseder) Geels

Debra Geels, age 58, passed into her heavenly home on April 13, 2025. Born on January 1, 1967, to John and Phyllis (Gross) Koenigseder, Debra was a lifelong resident of Fort Smith, Arkansas, where she built a life rooted in faith, family, and service. 

Since July 13, 1991, Debra shared her life with her beloved husband, Patrick Joseph Geels. Together, they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unwavering love.

Debra dedicated her professional life to caring for others, as a trauma recovery RN at St. Edwards Hospital and later a hospice RN for Peachtree Hospice, where she provided comfort and dignity to patients in her care. As a nurse at St. Boniface School, she nurtured and protected the well-being of countless children. Her kindness, gentle strength, and deep compassion touched the lives of everyone she cared for.

As a devout Catholic, Debra’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. Her faith helped guide her through life. Outside of her work and faith, Debra found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid sewer and quilter, pouring love and creativity into each stitch. She loved camping with family and friends, and she had a soft spot for animals—especially cats. Debra will be remembered by her family and friends as a devoted wife, loving mother, loyal friend, compassionate nurse, and strong woman.

Debra is preceded in death by her mother, Phyllis Koenigseder; and her stepmother, Cindy.

Debra's legacy of love, grace, and strength remains in the hearts and minds of her surviving family: her beloved husband of 34 years, Patrick Geels; her three children: Emily Geels of Monticello, Arkansas; Jacob Geels of Norman, Oklahoma; and Daniel Geels of Russellville, Arkansas; her father, John Koenigseder of Alma, Arkansas; her two brothers; Mark Koenigseder and wife Amy of Hackett, Arkansas and Bob McMillin and wife Donna of Benton, Arkansas; her sister Amanda Stark and Aundrea of Alma, Arkansas; and a host of family and friends.

A visitation will be held at Lewis Funeral Chapel on Monday, April 21, 2025, from 5:30p.m - 6:30p.m with a Rosary to follow. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Boniface Church, on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 10:00 am, officiated by Father Mario. Services entrusted to Lewis Funeral Chapel.

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