January 5, 1962 – March 28, 2026
Debby was born on January 5, 1962, in Okmulgee to Kenneth Beard and Norma Green-Beard. She graduated with honors from Beggs High School in 1980, where she played cornet in the Jazz Band and was a twirler for the Marching Band. During her high school years, Debby was a true pioneer. She broke barriers as the first female member of Beggs FFA, excelling in public speaking programs and showing numerous prize-winning pigs and steers. Four years after joining what had been an all-male organization, she graduated as the first female president of the Beggs FFA Chapter. Her deep love for horses also flourished during this time, leading her to be crowned Rodeo Queen and to compete in Play Days, Junior Rodeos and horse shows. That same year, she had the unique opportunity to tour Europe as a twirler with an agricultural musical ambassador group an experience she always held close to her heart.
She continued her education at Oklahoma State University, earning her Master’s degree in Agricultural Education in 1985. Debby began her teaching career in Guthrie, where she quickly became known for her passion, dedication and ability to truly connect with her students. As one of the first female agriculture teachers in Oklahoma, she helped break barriers and open doors for many who would follow in her footsteps. She went on to create a cooperative agriculture program between Boynton and Midway schools and later taught at Checotah and Morris Public Schools, shaping the lives of countless young people along the way.
In 2002, Debby joined Connors State College, where her impact only continued to grow. She was named Division Chair in 2003 and later became Director of Agriculture. With vision and determination, she built the horticulture program from the ground up, including the development of multiple greenhouses that still stand as part of her legacy. She served as advisor for the Ag Ambassadors and was honored as Faculty Member of the Year in 2013. Her contributions to agriculture and education were further recognized when she received the Gold Buckle Award for Equine and Rodeo Supporters.
After an incredible 40-year career in education, Debby retired in 2025. Even in retirement, she remained busy doing what she loved. She spent the past two years working at Hometown Treasures, where she poured her creativity into crafting beautiful floral arrangements. This “part-time” job quickly became a true passion, and her work reflected the care and creativity she brought to everything she did. Debby was also a 25-year member of the Osage Hills OHCE, an involvement that held special meaning as a tribute to her beloved grandmother, Mildred Green.
Debby found joy in life’s simple pleasures gardening, crafting and canning – and she had a quiet, humble spirit that made her all the more special. She never sought attention, yet her presence naturally drew people in. Whether in a classroom or on a stage, she had a way of making others feel comfortable, valued and inspired. To her students, she was more than a teacher – she was a mentor, a supporter and often like a second mom.
Of all the roles she carried, the one she treasured most was “Mom.” Her love for her family was at the center of everything she did. She shared 40 beautiful years of marriage with her soulmate, Bill Golden, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter and deep devotion.
Debby is survived by her loving husband, Bill Golden; her daughters, Katelyn Golden and her boyfriend Chris and Kendall Spradlin and her husband Justin; her mother, Norma Green; and her cherished family members, including Linda Beard, Denny Beard and spouse Michele, Vickey Jones, Staci Barrett, Anthony Beard, Lesa Golden and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Beard; her grandparents, Mildred and Norman Green; and her in-laws, Bill and Valle Golden.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the Morris High School Gymnasium in Morris.
In honor of Debby’s lifelong dedication to education, a Memorial Scholarship Fund is being established in her name to benefit Connors State College agriculture students, ensuring her passion for teaching and mentorship will continue to impact future generations.
Debby’s life was one of service, kindness and quiet strength. The love she gave, the lives she shaped and the legacy she leaves behind will continue to be felt for generations.
Services have been entrusted to Schaudt’s Okmulgee Funeral Service and Cremation Center. Friends & family may leave condolences and kind words of comfort at www.schaudtfuneralservice. com.
