Debra S. Annen, age 71, of Madison, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on June 8, 2026. Deb was born on September 7, 1954, in Madison, Wisconsin, to Roland “Spike” Annen and Jeanne (Billington) Annen. A lifelong resident of the Madison area, Deb graduated from Madison West High School in 1972. She continued her education at the UW-Stout, earning a degree in Elementary Education and later obtaining a master's degree from UW-Madison as a Reading Specialist.

Deb dedicated her life to education and spent many years helping children develop a love of reading and learning. She enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as an educator, beginning in the Adams-Friendship school district before joining the Deerfield school district, where she taught for many years and formed several cherished lifelong friendships.

Those who knew Deb were well acquainted with her deep love of cats, whose companionship brought her immeasurable joy. Beyond her devotion to her furry friends, she had a passion for reading, traveling, and singing — most recently with the Monona Senior Choir. She looked forward each year to the beloved "Annen Camp" family tradition and was a lifelong and faithful member of Glenwood Moravian Church in Madison.

Deb faced the challenges associated with Turner Syndrome throughout her life with remarkable courage and determination. She was proud that she had defied the odds and lived a full and meaningful life. She was truly an independent woman who lived life on her own terms and generously shared her time, talents, and resources with the people and organizations she cared about.

Deb is survived by her siblings, Pamela (Carl) Southerland and Jeff (Mary) Annen; five nieces and nephews; thirteen great-nieces and great-nephews; and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roland “Spike” and Jeanne Annen.

Deb's gentle and caring spirit touched the lives of many. She was known for her kindness, generosity, and thoughtful nature. One of the many ways she shared her love was through the gift of books, often sending beautifully selected storybooks for birthdays and holidays. This tradition reflected both her passion for reading and her dedication to education, and those treasured books are now being enjoyed by the next generation.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Karen Hansen of SSM Health for her compassionate care and support over the years. Special thanks are also extended to the Madison Fire Department EMS personnel for their assistance and care during times of need, and to the entire staff of the UW Hospital Emergency Department for their skill, kindness, and support of both Deb and her family as she transitioned peacefully from this life to one free from pain and suffering.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Glenwood Moravian Church or the Dane County Humane Society.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at GLENWOOD MORAVIAN CHURCH, 725 Gilmore Street, Madison, Wisconsin.

A memorial celebration of Deb's life will be held on Monday, July 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at GLENWOOD MORAVIAN CHURCH, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. A luncheon will follow at Barnwood Event Center, 3230 Larson Road, Madison.

Deb's service will be live-streamed and may be found through the following link: Live Stream

Please share your memories below in the online guestbook.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434