Debra Marlene Rathbun

November 25,1954-October 23, 2026 

Debra Marlene Rathbun was born on November 25, 1954, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, to Gerald Wayne and Marlene Lorraine (Hutchins) Popham. Deb passed away on October 23, 2026.

Deb grew up in Sundance, Wyoming, where she spent her time showing horses in 4-H, working at the local Tastee-Freez, and enjoying time with her cousins. After graduation, she completed cosmetology school. She spent a summer working as a flagger for a local construction company, where she met her future husband. Deb and Floyd were married in July 1976 and moved to Basin, Wyoming, where Deb opened her own business, Deb’s Beauty Salon. Through her work, she connected with people, built lasting relationships, and became a familiar and cherished part of the community.

Ready for a change of pace from owning her own business, Deb began working as a secretary at Basin High School, which later became Riverside High School. She also spent a short time at Greybull High School before joining the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office. There, she dedicated the next 30 years of her career to serving the people of Big Horn County as a dispatcher and administrative assistant. 

Deb took pride in her work and found joy in being there for others. Her commitment to her community extended beyond her professional career. Deb served for many years on the Basin Town Council and the South Big Horn County Rural Health Board. She cared deeply about the community she called home and generously gave her time in service to its residents. 

Her years of involvement reflected her dedication to helping others and making a difference in the place where she lived and raised her family.

While Deb dedicated many years to her career and community, her family was always at the center of her heart. She dearly loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and treasured the time they spent together. 

Deb found joy in cooking and sharing meals with the people she loved, especially during family gatherings and the Christmas season. Christmas held a special place in her heart, bringing together the people who meant the most to her and creating memories her family will cherish for years to come. 

For Deb, some of life’s most precious moments were spent surrounded by family and friends, sharing love, laughter, delicious meals, and cherished traditions.

Deb is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Kandice and Chris Dooley; her grandchildren, Bree and TJ Lundberg, Cade Dooley, and Mackenzie Riney; and her great-grandchildren, Teagan Lundberg and Tate Lundberg. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Jill Popham; her sister and brother-in-law, Heidi and Scott Komes; and her nephew, Kody Komes.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Rathbun; her father, Gerald Wayne Popham; and her mother, Marlene Lorraine Popham.

Deb will be remembered for her dedication to serving others, the countless memories she created, and the deep love she shared with her family. Though she will be deeply missed, her love will live on in the hearts of her family.

In keeping with the family’s wishes, there will be no public memorial service. Her family will gather privately to spread her ashes and honor her memory.