Debra Kay Leahy

Debra Kay Leahy, 69, passed away on June 27, 2021 at Parkridge Specialty Care in Pleasant Hill after a courageous battle with cancer. A private celebration of Debra’s life will be held at a later date.

Debra was born February 29, 1952, in Newton, Iowa to Winifred Henry and MayBell (Musgrove) Bookout. She managed various bars throughout the Des Moines metro and was great at darts. Debra later was a self-employed painter. She worked primarily removing lead based paint and asbestos from homes making them safe again. After defeating cancer the first time, Debra became somewhat of a free spirit, coloring her hair crazy colors and getting meaningful survivor tattoos. She loved growing her many plants and flowers. Debra was a member of the Lutheran Church.

Debra is survived by her children, Christopher Bookout, Shannon (Jeff Hodson) Blackwell, Joe (Nicole) Leahy and Brenda (Matt Rushing) Dominguez; the father of her children, Joe Leahy; siblings Steve (Ruth) Bookout, Jacque Cupples, and John (Debbie Harris) Bookout; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; infant daughter, Daffodil; and her brother, Gene Bookout.

A celebration of life will be held from 3 - 5:00 pm on Sunday, July 4, 2021 at 421 Watrous Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50315.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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