Debra Gail Cosby Johnson passed away peacefully the morning of February 27, 2025 at the age of 69.
Visitation: 6pm to 8pm Friday, March 7, 2025 at Lake Shore Funeral Home, Waco, TX
Funeral Service: 10am Saturday, March 8, 2025 at Lake Shore Funeral Home, Waco, TX
Reception: 12pm Saturday, March 8, 2025 at Lee Lockwood Museum and Library, 2801 W. Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76707
Debra Cosby was born on September 21, 1955, to Alberta and Ulysses Cosby in Waco, Texas. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Louis Johnson, Sr., who passed away on January 4, 2016; her brother, Keith Anthony Cosby of Waco, TX, who passed on September 10, 2023; and her beloved mother, Alberta Cosby, who passed on August 29, 2022.
There is a famous quote that says, “Anyone who keeps learning stays young.” Debra lived by this principle, always seeking knowledge throughout her life. She attended G.L. Wiley Junior High and graduated from Waco High School in 1973. Like her mother, Alberta, Debra had a passion for learning and teaching. This love for education led her to earn a Bachelor of Science in Education from Baylor University and a Master’s in Secondary Administration from Paul Quinn College. It was during her time at Paul Quinn that she formed a lasting friendship with Tanya McCloud.
Debra married Robert Louis Johnson, Sr. on February 9, 1974, and together they raised two children: Robert Louis Johnson, Jr. (Jersey City, NJ) and Misti LeMae Johnson Mostiller (Robinson, TX). Robert, Jr. and Misti were the center of Debra’s world, and she loved them unconditionally, taking great pride in both their academic and athletic achievements. Robert made it a point to take his mom and grandmother on trips around the world, including time spent overseas in France and other countries, while Misti played a crucial role in caring for Debra, especially as she battled Multiple Sclerosis.
Debra’s commitment to education was evident in her decades of service with the Waco Independent School District. She had a long and resilient career, working at Sul Ross, Mountainview, Cedar Ridge (where she was honored as Principal of the Year), and A.J. Moore High School. She especially enjoyed her time at A.J. Moore High School, where she served as Assistant Principal under her dear friend Debra Bishop and trusted and beloved colleague Angela Reheir. Debra Bishop shared, “We had many happy times working together. She was always a kind and compassionate friend and colleague, and I could always count on her.”
Debra’s true passion for teaching extended beyond the classroom, as she found fulfillment in sharing her faith and discussing the Bible. She was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Christian Witnesses in 1993, and throughout her life, she remained steadfast in her ministry. Even as she battled severe pain from Multiple Sclerosis and other health challenges, she prioritized her Christian service, focusing on prayer, Bible study, and preaching. During the pandemic, Debra’s unwavering spirit and dedication to her ministry inspired all who knew her. She would want to be remembered most for her faithfulness, as she remained dedicated to her spiritual work to the very end of her life. Many fondly recall the phone calls, texts, and memes Debra sent to express her love and concern, always putting others before herself.
If you knew Debra, you knew she loved to joke and “high side” with her friends and family. Her best friends, including but definitely not limited to, Beverly Johnson, Alecia Ward, Debra Bishop, Tanya McCloud, and Doloris Walker, will tell you she always had a joke ready to lighten the mood. She also loved spending time with her grandchildren, often teasing them, especially Kaden, whom she affectionately called “Kadensaurus.”
Debra is survived by her uncle, Gerald Wayne Elliott Sr. (Addie) of Waco, TX; her son, Robert Louis Johnson, Jr. of Jersey City, NJ; her daughter, Misti Johnson Mostiller (Steven Q.) of Waco, TX; grandchildren, Kalil Johnson-Washington, who lovingly cared for his “Granny D” until the end, and Kaden Samuel Mostiller, both of Waco, TX, Alice Kathryn Johnson of Stockholm, Sweden, and Louis River Johnson of Jersey City, NJ. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Beverly Johnson, Maudine Johnson, and Dara Johnson, all of Waco, TX; brother-in-law, Wendell Johnson aka Pickle of Temple, TX; nieces, Sheila Merkledove of Clifton, TX, Cheryl Mims of Waco, TX, Erica Johnson of Katy, TX, Wanna Perkins of Houston, TX, Daphanie Latchison of Waco, TX, Victoria Janae Cosby Jordan of Waco, TX, Brittany Johnson of Waco, TX; nephews, Larue Mims of Maryland, Donnie Johnson of NC, Wayne Johnson Jr. of Houston, TX, Gregory Johnson Jr. of Waco, TX, Dwayne Johnson of Houston, TX, Dwight Johnson (Mia) of GA, Derrick Johnson (Brittany) of Cedar Park, TX, Preston Johnson of Houston, TX, Daneric Johnson of Waco, TX; cousins, Leslie Raymond Bolden (Quintessa) of Houston, TX, Gerald Wayne Elliott Jr. (Nichelle) of Mount Kisco, NY, Saul C. Elliott aka JuneBug (Mary) of Waco, TX, Gregory Prentis (Kandy) of Denver, CO, Brett Prentis of Arizona, Darryl Prentis of San Francisco, CA, Sherry Elliott Wilson (Willie) of Waco, TX,, Kenneth Elliott aka PeeWee of Waco , TX, Vickie Elliott Griffin (Gerry) of Lancaster, TX, Trina Rodgers (Robert), Anita Satchell (Mark) of Denver, CO, Lisa Prentis of Denver, CO, Alexa Elliott, Kezia Footman (aka Jimmy), Shellia Jimenez of Joliet, IL, and “adopted brother” Dwight Battle, Sr., “adopted son” Dwight Battle, Jr., and “adopted daughter” Michelle Battle, all of Waco, TX. Debra is also survived by a host of other beloved family and friends, too numerous to list but deeply cherished.
Debra’s legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and the countless lives she touched through her faith, work, and love.
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Place of Service: Lake Shore Funeral Home , 5201 Steinbeck Bend; Waco, TX 76708
Print Obituary & Condolences
My sincere condolences to Debra’s family. She was my lifelong friend.I will miss her, but I will cherish all of the memories we made from elementary school to our professional years as administrators in Waco ISD. Rest well my friend. See you on the other side.
I am so sorry for your loss. I had the privilege of working for Debra at Cedar Ridge. I was the office clerk. i pray for you during this loss. Helen Harris
I have known the Cosby family a very long time. Sorry to hear of this sad news. I will miss Debra’s weekly calls. My heart is broken. To her children and family members, you have my condolences.
You have my deepest sympathy for your loss of your mother! Deborah will call me two to three times out of a month just to check and see how I’m doing. This was very encouraging. I will truly miss my Friend! Love Almeta
Our deepest condolences to your family and friends. I didn’t know you outside of school but will always have you in my heart as a true friend and kind person that God has blessed me with in my life. Debra was a great person and long life Waco High Tiger. May she R.I.P. Love you always my friend.
My deepest condolences and prayers for her family. I had the privilege of working with Debra as the speech therapist for Cedar Ridge Elementary my first few years as well as other campuses throughout our tenure with Waco ISD. I always enjoyed talking with her when we’d see each around town. She was sharp and good humored. R.I.P. Mrs. Johnson ~Jessica Chapman
Deborah was like an aunt a mom a friend all in one. She understood me when nobody else did.
Never passed judgment and Robert was like my cousin/brother and friend and misty always kept me in line lol and she would always feed you even if feels her last two dollars she never thought about herself, but everyone else she will be greatly missed
We will miss Debra very much.She was like family because through the years me and my family had adopted her mother Alberta Cosby as part of our family until her death.We love Debra cause she always called and checked on my family.Jack and my boys.She was thoughtful and I will miss her calling me and sharing words of encouragement with me often.
Little Robert and Misti , you and your families have my deepest condolences for the loss of your mother my niece Dede. She was steeped in education and her faith. Will miss our long conversations. PRAYING for Bo both of your families daily. May she rest in peace.
Your loving Aunt Ursula
I’m so sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy for you and your family.
I have grown up knowing this Powerful Lady. Her Husband my Uncle whom I Miss Dearly May God have Mercy on their Souls and give their Children the Strength as they Navigate this hurdle in Life. May this moment prepare us For the home going of Mrs. Debra Johnson, for she lived a joyful God-fearing life. For those who knew her were blessed. Lil Robert and Misti Johnson Your will be Missed and she will always be with U………God Bless🙏
I can only say that Debra Johnson was real. She was real in her love for her God Jehovah,her children,her beliefs, and her friends. When she said that she loved you she meant it .
Sleep peacefully and pain free my friend 🙏🙏❤️
Dear Johnson family
I was deeply saddened to her
About the passing of Aunt Debra. She was truly an extraordinary person who left a lasting impact on every one she met. Her beauty, grace, and sense of humor always made those around her feel love and appreciated. I will always remember the way she would light a up room with her jokes and infectious laughter. As a principal at AJ Moore, she touched so many lives, guiding and inspiring countless students and teachers with her leadership, kindness, and dedication. She will be greatly missed, but her legacy will live on in the many lives she touched. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this, difficult time. May the love and memories you shared with Aunt Debra bring you comfort in the days ahead
With deepest sympathy Cheryl Mims.
Deborah
I will miss your calls just checking on me about my cancer journey. We always talked about Ms Reiher and I could tell you had a special love for her. I do also. You always asked about Dorothy and my two kids. You were quick to tell me about your son and daughter and grandkids. Rest in Peace my friend
Bill Shepard
My deepest condolences to the family of Mrs. Johnson . She will definitely be missed any time you saw her no matter the situation or circumstances she greeted you with a warm smile and kind words . Prayers of comfort and strength to the bereaved family .
LSF III,
AJ MOORE C/O 2001
My condolences to the family.
Mrs. D. Johnson you were so sweet ever since meeting you at Parkdale elementary school…and you were always there when I needed you the most. Not just in elementary school but all the way through high school and life. There were 3 mentors I had..you..Mr. Clayton and Mrs. Brenda Hand
Thank you for taking your time with us and really getting to know us. Especially me, I could go yo you about anything…and you would help and mentor me…You saved my life so many times from all the bullying and I will never forget you!
You were an amazing mentor and assistant principal that helped me get through so many tough times at school. You will be terribly missed …heaven gained a beautiful soul today. ✨️ 🫶
I am so sorry to read this. I met Debra at Waco ISD. She was a very sweet lady, always welcoming with a smile.
God be with you.
Ms Johnson was a very sweet lady was my high school principal at AJ.moore as I gotten older I would see her around town she still remembered me and my name even remembered my mom she would say how is Latoya doing and my mom would tell me.. she never forgot a face or name prayers for her family and friends ❤️ you Ms Johnson 🙏 😇
Praying for her family,, friends and all of us that knew her
My Condolences to her family. She was a wonderful person and a great assistant principal at A.J.Moore Academy. She was always willing to talk and help as well as guide. She will be deeply missed.
We are praying for you during this tremendous loss. Cousin DD was loved by so many and will be truly missed. Her passion for teaching extended beyond the classroom to our weekly conversations, teaching the word and life lessons along the way. Beautiful person and spirit, Rest in peace. Always! Deloz and Angel
I’m deeply sorry for your loss. Aunt Debra was an extraordinary person who always offered guidance and support whenever needed. Her love and care for her family were truly inspiring, and her selflessness will never be forgotten. She will be deeply missed. Love you all!
The Mackey Family
Rest Easy my dearest friend I will always remember all the good times we had at AJ Moore and all the High Sides. ….. gone but you will never be forgotten.😢🌹🌹🌹🌹
I’m from the class of 2003 for aj moore academy. Mrs Johnson was an excellent and caring person all throughout my high school career she was there with the rest of the administration to talk to me I had wonderful conversations with her. That said I’m sad to see yet another wonderful person in my life who has gone to heaven to early.
Much love and respect to you Mrs Johnson thank you for being there for me I. High school
Your student and friend: Joseph Salyards
Precious, precious woman. May God comfort all who grieve her loss.🙏
My sincerest condolences,
I knew Debra from working at Waco ISD, and she aways so cheerful and friendly.
Sympathy extended to all her loved ones.
My deepest sympathy to Misti, Robert, and family
members upon the passing of my dear friend, Debra
Johnson. We worked together for 20 plus years and shared many, many memories. Our vision never waivered as we strived to promote success for all our students. Debra had a strong sense of loyalty to her friends and we were blessed by it. Her generosity was second to none. I could go on and on about Debra’s outstanding qualities but most importantly was her devotion to our Heavenly Father and our Savior Jesus Christ. She loved the scriptures, spending her life not only living the word, but always spreading the word.
Debra., I admired and respected your unwavering faith and was blessed to be able to share thoughts on our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I know you are at the feet of our Lord along with your mom, dad, and your brother Keith. I pray that we will be continue our friendship and sisterhood in Christ. Love you and I will miss you dearly.
Our deepest condolences to Debra’s family and friends. May God comfort and strengthen you during this difficult time. We will miss our phone conversations and occasional lunches with you and your mom before she passed. We admired Debra for her resilience and persistence to keep going even though she was in pain and suffered with health issues. We love and will really miss you! Wanda and Denise Brown
I sincerely loved Debra Johnson. She was assistant principal at Mountainview, where I taught. She was absolutely delightful; always positive, professional, and fun-loving! I am so sorry for your loss. Your mom was such a blessing to so many! ❤️
Mrs. Johnson was my principal at A.J. Moore, and she was a kind, humble, and encouraging woman who truly loved what she did. She was always there to support me, whether it was calming me down or simply being someone I could talk to and confide in. I will always cherish the memories of running into her at Dollar General. My heartfelt prayers and condolences go out to her family. Mrs. Johnson, you will be deeply missed. Candace Blackwell
Condolences to Debra’s family!!! My friendship with Debra began as we attended kindergarten together, then reunited after my family and I returned to Waco Texas in 1967. At that time, we united ‘once again” at GL Wiley Junior High School. I am proud and honored to consider myself a “friend” of such a gorgeous lady. Your charisma, wit and smile will be remain in my heart forever. Until we meet again…
I spent only a brief moment,in your presence,but I felt like I knew you for a life time,Your love for Jehovah,an zeal were so refreshing,I look forward spending all eternity with you and many more of our love ones under Jehovah’s loving care,an guidance
Sending big hugs and prayers. May God bring you all strength and comfort during this time.
Rosalin Hall-King
Misti and Robert and Family:
I am so very sorry for your loss. Your Mother was always cheerful and looking to help others.
When I was working with her at A.J. Moore Academy as an Administrator and I was not sure of the “ropes” for
secondary students; she took me under her wing and I was her “student.” She had followed Dr. Bishop’s pattern and I was following Debra’s pattern of being successful with all students. Your Mother knew her craft in and out.
She was loved.
Charlie & Debra Jackson
Condolences to Debra’s Family. We are so very sorry for your loss. May Jehovah the God of all comfort be with you during this difficult time.
Our sincere condolences to the family. Misti and Robert, your mother was a jewel and will be truly missed. God bless each of you.
Debra was a loving kind sister . She always had a smile and beautiful spirit. She was faithful and loved Jehovah . She always called and checked on my mom regularly . She will be truly missed! Jehovh will remember my sister. Revelation 21:3,4
Debra was always been a kind and gentle soul. She has always had love and attention from my entire family. We will surely miss her.