Debra Carls

Debra Carls, 66, of Pekin, IL, passed away peacefully at 1:38 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.

Debra was born on December 24, 1959, in Pekin to Calvin and Delores (Smith) Friedrich. She married Kurt McBeath in November of 1979 and they had two children, Brooke and Blake. She later married Jon Carls on April 10, 2011, in Morton. Together they built a life filled with laughter, adventure, and cherished memories.

She was preceded in death by her father; her paternal grandparents, Nelson and Rachel (Eitenmiller) Friedrich; and her maternal grandparents, Earle and Amelia (Alig) Smith.

Surviving is, her loving husband, Jon Carls of Pekin; her mother, Dee Friedrich of Pekin; one daughter, Brooke (Doug Balakovich) Lanan of Pekin; two sons, Blake (Katie Gortva) McBeath of Green Valley and Trenton (Petra Slinkard) Carls of Salem, MA; one sister, Jan (Tony) Bracciale of Prescott, AZ; one brother, Bob (Vicki) Friedrich of Pekin; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, treasured friends, and all whose lives were made brighter by knowing her.

Deb enjoyed a successful career as an insurance agent with Monge Crouch–Mahoney in Pekin, where she spent many years serving her clients with integrity, compassion, and a welcoming smile. She was a faithful member of Bethel Lutheran Church in Morton, where her faith remained an important part of her life.

A spirited and fun-loving woman, Deb embraced every opportunity to enjoy life. She loved spending sunny days on the boat, soaking up the warmth of the sun, and escaping to the Lake of the Ozarks, a place that brought her peace and countless happy memories. Whether she was enjoying time outdoors, traveling, or simply relaxing with those she loved, Deb found joy in the moments spent with family and friends. Her kind heart, infectious smile, and ability to make others feel welcome will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at Bethel Lutheran Church in Morton with Rev. Greg Moyer officiating. Visitation will be 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Monday, August 10 at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory and from 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM Tuesday at the church. Cremation will be accorded following the service. Inurnment will be held at a later date at Glendale Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Liberty Village of Pekin for the Activity Department or Bethel Lutheran Church for the music ministry in Deb's memory.