Deborah Ann Rivera

Deborah Rivera ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Ahlgrim & Sons Funeral and Cremation Services LTD. on Mar. 10, 2026.Deborah Ann "Debi" Rivera (née Fleck), age 65, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, in Chicago, Illinois. Born on December 30, 1960, in the same city she called home throughout her life, Debi brought warmth, laughter, and compassion to all who knew her. Debi was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.Debi was the beloved daughter of Joyce and Wallace Fleck, both of whom preceded her in death. She was the devoted wife of Steven Sheppard and a proud, loving mother to her son, Ryan, who was always at the center of her world. One of eight siblings, Debi grew up surrounded by the beautiful chaos of a large family. She is survived by her brothers and sisters: Daniel, Joseph, James, Pamela, Lisa, Lara, and Dawn, as well as her two grandsons and many nieces and nephews. Her family was the heart of her world-whether she was spending time with Steven, catching up with her siblings, or cheering on Ryan and his family; they were always her greatest priority. Her presence in their lives was a constant thread of connection, and her absence will be felt deeply at every family gathering.Known for her vibrant sense of humor and boundless creativity, Debi had a rare gift for making others feel truly seen and cared for. Her kind heart left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She had a way of turning ordinary moments into cherished memories through laughter and love.Though Debi is no longer with us in body, her spirit endures in the stories shared by those who loved her and in the kindness, she showed throughout her life. May her memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know her.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.