Debi Hawthorne, 70, of Cozad, Nebraska, passed away on Monday, October 19, 2026, at Meadowlarke Pointe in Cozad.

She was born on February 17, 1956, in Cozad, Nebraska, to John Ivan and Katherine Fay (Norden) Gregory. On August 13, 1996, Debi was united in marriage to Lonnie D. Hawthorne in Lexington, Nebraska. Debi was blessed with five children: Jon, Shannon, Nitasha, Katreena, and Cassie. She was a stay-at-home mom for many years until her children were all old enough to attend school. She then went on to manage Wendy's in Lexington for 20 years.

In her free time, Debi enjoyed going fishing, watching her favorite football teams, and watching a scary movie. Debi's greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren, who were her whole world. Watching them grow up and flourish was a true blessing for her.

Survivors include her children, Jon (Courtney) Whitehouse, Shannon (Matt) Johnson, Nitasha (Cody) Robinson, Katreena (Eddy) Melo, and Cassie (Paul) Proctor; stepchildren, Leonard Hawthorne, Steve Shafer, Charles Hawthorne, Dennis Hawthorne, Nathan Menagh and Trinity Seder; brothers, Tim Gregory, Larry Gregory, and Dale Gregory; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Debi was preceded in death by her husband, Lonnie Hawthorne.

A Memorial Book Signing will be held on Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 2-4 p.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington.

Memorials are kindly suggested to the family for later designation.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com