Debbie Salyer

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Debra Kay Salyer, age 69, of Sarcoxie, MO, passed away on Saturday morning, September 4, 2021 at Oak Pointe of Monett.

Debbie was born on January 29, 1952, in Monett, MO, the daughter of James Clifford and Anna Claire (Steward) Dotson. She graduated from Monett High School with the class of 1970 and continued her education at Missouri Southern State College in Joplin, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in K-12 Education. 

As she entered the teaching field she continued with her education, obtaining a master’s degree in K-12 Education from Missouri State University in Springfield. Starting in the fall of 1974, she would teach full-time at Sarcoxie and Monett School Districts for a combined 26 years. Even after retirement, she was a part-time reading and classroom aide for the Sarcoxie Elementary School for 15 years. 

Debbie was a lifelong member of the St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Monett, where she was active in most activities including Bishop’s Committee, Sunday School, Episcopal Church Women’s Committee, Altar Guild and Eucharistic Ministry. Debbie helped organize and lead a collaborative Vacation Bible School for children from four Monett churches for over thirty-five years. Debbie also assisted with the children’s Bible Drill at the First Baptist Church in Sarcoxie. Debbie’s loves in life included her family, church and educating children.

On November 26, 1976, Debra Kay Dotson and Loyd Leigh Salyer were united in marriage. They enjoyed spending forty-four years together.

She is survived by her husband, Leigh of Sarcoxie, MO; two sons, Jim Salyer and wife Dr. Kendra Price-Salyer and Chris Salyer and wife Melissa; two grandchildren, William and Daniel; one brother, David Dotson; and several extended family and friends.

Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Thursday, September 9, 2021 at the Buchanan Funeral Home in Monett. Memorial services will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, September 10, 2021 at the St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Monett. Reverend Paula Lively will officiate. 

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in care of the funeral home. Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home.