Oct. 31, 1950 – Feb. 6, 2020

Natchez – Debby attended school throughout the years at Carpenter II, Braden, Margaret Martin and Natchez High School, always excelling in academics. She was a cheerleader in junior high and her sophomore year of high school. She took dance lessons from Martha Hootsell from the time she was a small child and participated in the Historic Natchez Tableaux in both Little and Big Maypole, Audubon and the Ballet. She won the title of the first Miss Natchez. Debby continued her dancing career while living in New Orleans under the direction of Harvey Hysell’s Ballet, even performing in Giselle, a performance featuring Rudolf Nureyev. Many were not aware that Debby was a talented artist and fine seamstress. Debby was formerly married to the late, Jim Deterly.

While living in New Orleans, Debby began her work in finance as a stockbroker, where she met her husband, Jim Hill. Debby’s career excelled to bond trading in international banking. She was well-respected, receiving many accolades. Sadly, her career ended when Multiple Sclerosis affected her ability to continue with rigor.

Debby and Jim were married for 31 years. Jim stood by Debby, supporting and caring for her for the duration of her struggle with MS. Jim committed himself to keeping Debby in their home throughout her illness.

Debby was preceded in death by her parents, Margaret and Wesley Cooper of Natchez.

Survivors include her husband, Jim Hill of Covington; stepdaughter, Shani Rowbatham and her husband, Dave; grandson, Reece; sister and brother-in-law, Carolyn and Gary Guido of Natchez; two nieces, Megan Guido and Kari Caldwell, both of Natchez; and best friend, Barbara Koerber Greenwald of Waterbury, VT.

A private interment will be at a later date. Local arrangements have been entrusted to Laird Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the Natchez-Adams County Humane Society.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at lairdfh.com.