Debra Ann Vail

Debra Ann Vail, 61, peacefully passed Aug. 2, 2016 at her home in Poplar Bluff, Mo. Debra, formerly from Little Rock, Ark., and also Monticello, Ark., was born Aug. 21, 1954 in Farmington, Ark. to the late Charles Cunningham and Betty Workman. She was of the Baptist faith. She is survived by her husband of 40 years, James W. Vail Jr. Debra was always active in her community. She was a den mother for the cub scouts and active in a family support group for active duty military. She retired from Little Rock School District Transportation. She was awarded the Adjutant General's Volunteer Award in 2000. Debra was also awarded the Artillery Order of Molly Pitcher Award. This award recognized her courage, patience, and best traditions of military service. BE IT FURTHER UNDERSTOOD: That we hereby confer upon her the shield of Molly Pitcher emblazoned above and enjoin all Field Artillerymen henceforth to show due honor and respect whenever she enters their midst. Also surviving are one son, Benjimin Vail; three daughters, Shannon Ferrell, Carolyn Ellis and Deanna Vail; two sisters, Barbara Parnell and Wanda Hays; one brother, Raymond Cunningham; 13 grandchildren, Sarah, Emily, Hannah, Allen, Kenneth, Jerry, Marshall, Molly, Oliver, Emma, Sam, Haylee, Isabelle and two great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held at the VFW Post in Monticello, Ark., Aug. 21, 2016 from 1-6 p.m. Arrangements are under the direction of Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home. Online condolences: www.fitchhillisfh.com.