Deborah Ann “Debbie” LaPlante of Belgrade, Missouri, departed this life on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, in the comfort of her home at the age of 61. Debbie was born in St. Louis on August 22, 1964, a daughter of the late Joseph Gombas and Diane (Fish) Gombas, who preceded her in passing.

Debbie was a loving and caring woman whose greatest joy came from her family, especially her grandchildren. She loved cooking for her family and creating special meals for the holidays. Among her family’s favorite requests were her porcupine meatballs and her famous fried chicken—dishes that will forever carry memories of her love and care.

Debbie also had a creative spirit and enjoyed crafting. She spent many happy hours painting birdhouses and ceramic pieces and creating beautiful Christmas crafts. Christmas was her favorite holiday, and she made sure every part of her home was decorated, filling it with warmth, beauty, and holiday spirit.

She especially enjoyed spending time with Bob, taking leisurely car rides along country roads and enjoying the beautiful scenery around them. Debbie and Bob cherished their life in the country and the quiet moments they shared there. Debbie was a fun-loving grandmother who enjoyed playing board games with her family and making memories with those she loved. Her family and grandchildren were the most important part of her life, and she expressed that love through the countless ways she cared for and supported them.

Those who remain to treasure her memory include her husband of 33 years, Robert “Bob” LaPlante; her three children, Wesley (Nikki) Wisdom, Larissa (Matt) Bess, and Tiffany LaPlant Halbert; and her nine grandchildren, Alexis, Owen, Maisen, Veahda, Kohby, Trenton, Braxton, Paisley, and Brentley.

She is also survived by her four siblings, Connie Gombas, Teri (Rob) Hedden, Chrissy Gombas, and Jami (Colby) Hammers; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Russell and Tina LaPlante; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss her dearly.

Debbie will be remembered for her generous heart, her creativity, her love of family, and the warmth she brought into the lives of those around her. She found joy in simple moments—cooking for those she loved, decorating for Christmas, crafting, enjoying country drives with Bob, and spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Her love will live on through the family she cherished so deeply and the many memories she created with them. She will be deeply missed and forever treasured.

A memorial visitation for Debbie will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at DeClue Funeral Home. A memorial service will immediately follow the visitation at 5:00 p.m. in the DeClue Memorial Chapel, with Pastor Dan Townsend officiating.