Deborah Rae (Doering) Jackson, 73, of Washington, passed away on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria. She will be fondly missed.

She was born on December 28, 1951 in Peoria to Patricia J. (Hanks) Rora and Sheldon F. Doering.

She is survived by her daughters, Michelle (John) Burgess and Lisa (Damon) Force; her grandson, Ryan Shipley; her brother, Rick (Sue) Doering; and her cat, Angel.

She is preceded in death by her parents, and her sister, Kimberly Doering.

Deborah was a free spirit whose mischievous smile, sparkling green eyes, and clever wit brightened the days of all who knew her. She will be fondly missed. Deborah dedicated 30 years to her work as a medical transcriptionist, first at Hopedale Medical Center and later at OSF St. Francis Medical Center.  She enjoyed this work and had many fond memories of her colleagues. Deborah loved pets and all animals, and shared her home with well-loved cats and dogs over the years. She was an avid equestrian, and would rise early to take care of the family's horses and those of boarders. She found the work rewarding, and her time on horseback was a prized respite from the cares of workaday life. Her daughters also benefitted greatly from the skills and bonds that are formed through horsemanship.

Mom was the heart of the family. She loved her daughters and was proud of the women they have become. She made many sacrifices to ensure their happiness and well-being. She dearly loved her grandson, Ryan, and took great pride in his many fine qualities. Mom's favorite Scripture was 2 Corinthians 12:9, especially this excerpt: "My grace is sufficient for thee."  She used to liken it to the expression, "Don't borrow trouble." Mom would not want us to be sad. She is free of pain, and surely her beloved horse, Zodiac, was there at the rainbow bridge to give her a ride.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to TAPs Animal Shelter in Pekin or to  Central Illinois Riding Therapy Inc (CIRT) in East Peoria.

Cremation rites have been accorded. No services will be held at this time.