Debra Renee Castellano

Debra “Debbie” Renee Castellano (West), 69, passed away on June 23, 2026, at Integrity Healthcare of Marion.

Debbie was born on March 24, 1957, in Marion, Illinois, to Lloyd and Helen (Sprague) West. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose greatest joy in life was the people she loved.

More than anything, Debbie cherished being a mother. Some of her happiest years were spent as a stay-at-home mom, where she poured her heart into raising her children and creating a warm, loving home. In her younger years, she enjoyed roller skating, listening to music, and playing baseball with the boys. She once dreamed of becoming a disc jockey or a veterinarian—interests that reflected her lifelong love of music and animals, passions she later shared with her daughter. Debbie loved deeply, protected fiercely, and had a way of making those around her feel truly seen and cared for.

Debbie also built a successful and meaningful career in the mortgage industry, where she worked for several decades. She took great pride in helping individuals and families achieve the dream of homeownership, approaching her work with dedication, perseverance, and genuine care for others.

Outside of her career, Debbie found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She was a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan who eagerly anticipated Opening Day, spring training, and summer games each year. Music was always a constant in her life—she especially loved Jackson Browne, Bob Seger, the Eagles, and Fleetwood Mac—and she found happiness in long drives with the radio turned up. Debbie loved sunshine and warmth, whether she was relaxing by the pool, traveling to Jamaica, spending time at the beach, or enjoying a peaceful day outdoors.

She also enjoyed tending to her garden, planting flowers each spring, and occasionally growing vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers. Time spent outside, whether gardening, boating, or simply relaxing in the sun with friends, brought her great contentment. Debbie had a special love for animals, especially dogs, and her beloved companion, Ali, held a special place in her heart.

Debbie is survived by her husband, Joseph “J.D.” Castellano; her son, Brian; her daughter, Danielle; her stepson, Monte; five grandchildren; her sisters-in-law, Julie Felts and Laura Calvert; her brother-in-law, Jeffrey Castellano; many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends; and her beloved dog, Ali.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Helen (Sprague) West; her father-in-law, Marion J. Castellano; and her mother-in-law, Roberta Castellano.

Honoring her wishes, Debbie will be cremated.

Debbie will be remembered for her love of family, her strength, her loyalty, her love of music and sunshine, and the way she made the people she loved feel like home.