Debra Naralene Shorten, 68, of Orange, Texas, passed away on September 10, 2025, at home.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at New Hope Church of God in Vidor. Officiating will be Pastor Johnny Creasong. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange.
Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Monday, September 15, 2025, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Born in Orange, Texas, on August 30, 1957, she was the daughter of Narrell Wright and Oweta (Emmons) Wright. Debra was known for her remarkable baking skills, particularly her homemade biscuits, cakes, sweets, and desserts, which brought joy to countless family gatherings. A devoted family member, she loved her family deeply, especially her grandchildren, who lovingly referred to her as "Gammy." Debra was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, showing her kind-hearted nature. Although she could be reserved and quiet at times, she took great pride in allowing her children to shine and be their best selves. Debra had a deep appreciation for music; she enjoyed playing the piano and organ and took pleasure in singing and praising God. She was a member of the New Hope Church of God, where her faith played an important role in her life. Debra will be lovingly remembered for her warm spirit, her delicious baking, and her unwavering support for her family. She will be missed dearly by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She was preceded in death by her father, Narrell Wright; son, Robert Beard; and sister, Katrina Wright.
She is survived by her loving husband of 29 years, Bryan Shorten; mother, Oweta Wright; sons, Kenny Shorten and wife Megan, Ryan Beard and wife Cynthia, Matthew Shorten; daughters, Amanda Sites and husband Dale, Tiffany Farris and husband David, Heather Hernandez and husband Rolando, Alisha Martinez and husband Omar; nineteen grandchildren; siblings, Wesley Keith Wright, Dawana Tharpe, and Kyle Wright; numerous other loving family and friends.
Serving as pallbearers will be Ryan Beard, Kenny Shorten, Roland Hernandez, Omar Martinez, Dale Sites, and David Farris.