Debra Dawn Heimbigner

Debra Dawn Jacobson Heimbigner, age 58, passed away on March 28th, 2025, after a courageous fight against breast cancer. Deb was born on November 17, 1966 in Malta, Montana to Clarence and Shirley Jacobson. She grew up on a ranch in south Wagner, Montana, along with her sisters, Roxane and Linda. All three sisters were active in helping their father around the ranch and their mother with activities in the home. Deb was active in 4H, Choir, and Speech and Drama throughout her years of school. She raised many sheep for 4H along with other projects, garnering many awards and ribbons throughout her years in the activity. She attended Catholic school and later graduated from Malta High School in 1986.

Deb attended the University of Montana-Northern in Havre, Montana, obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. It was there that she met Donavan Heimbigner. The two married on June 8, 1991 in Malta, Montana, before moving to Chester, Montana. During their 10-year marriage, they had one child, their son, Zakary, born on April 29, 2000. They divorced the following year in 2001. Deb lived in Chester for the remaining years of her life, raising her son and teaching religious education for 10 years.

Throughout her life, Deb conquered many adversities associated with cerebral palsy, and later, breast cancer. She had many hobbies and interests, including coloring, cross-stitch, latch-hook, and reading. She loved animals and had many pets throughout her life, including cats and dogs. Deb will always be remembered for her boisterous laugh, lovable stubbornness, and courageous attitude. She always battled through any adversity or obstacle that stood in her way, and will remain an inspiration to all that knew her.

Deb is preceded in death by her grandparents, Bessie Mae and Harvey Jacobson, Catherine and Joseph Bengert, and her mother, Shirley Ann Jacobson. She is survived by her father, Clarence Jacobson (Maurine) of Surprise, Arizona, her son, Zakary Hudson of Aliso Viejo, California, and her sisters, Roxane Shammel (Ellis) of Sheridan, Montana, and Linda Schafer (Ron) of Bozeman, Montana. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and her beloved cat, Tiger Lilly.

Services for Deb will occur at St. Mary's Catholic Church on Friday, April 4.