Deborah Sue Cottrell-Lopez

Deborah Sue Cottrell Lopez, age 64 years, of Medford, Oregon died Thursday, January 9th, 2020 after a struggle with cancer.

She was born in Los Angeles, California on December 6, 1955, to Wesley and Georgetta Ulrey. Debbie was a beloved mom, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, daughter, auntie, friend, Sweetheart and wife. She had a fierce love for each of her five children: Tammy Lowrie, Michael Lopez, Tony Lopez, James Lopez and Nicolas Lopez. She was deeply proud of her six grandkids, Jarrett Lowrie, Brandon Lowrie, Nahollie Lowrie, Gidean Lowrie, Nicolas Lowrie and Pharoah Lopez. She was thrilled to become a great-grandma to Aubree and Chevelle Lowrie, Emerson Lowrie and Kaiden Gerjets. She also had a special bond with Ellen Marks, a longtime close friend and co-parent, and niece Kristi Ulrey.

Debbie's family was her world. She was preceded in death by four brothers: Timothy Ulrey, David Ulrey, Marty Ulrey and Roy Ulrey. She is survived by siblings Wanda Morley, Wesley Ulrey Jr., Carol Walters, Sylvan Ulrey, and Jimmy Ulrey. Debbie remained connected to her brothers and sisters all her life, and profoundly mourned her brothers that left this world before her. Her many nieces and nephews were dear to her heart as well. The only thing of equal importance to her family was her love for her cats, especially Dog Frog.

In her thirties, Debbie got her GED then earned a business degree from Rogue Community College. She had a fiery, independent spirit and did not like to be told what to do. She loved children, and this love helped her to retain her sense of wonder and faith. Her doors remained open to anyone in need. If Debbie loved you, you knew it. She had a way of making everyone feel special. She will be greatly missed!