MT 43 News Articles View a Published Article

Obituary: Debbie Jo Schmaus
Author: Family Of Debbie Jo Schmaus

Debbie Jo Schmaus

Family of Debbie Jo Schmaus

Debbie Jo Schmaus, 71, passed away unexpectedly on October 6, 2026. Born and raised in the Helena Valley, Debbie spent her life filling the world around her with color, laughter, music, and love.

Debbie raised her three daughters before meeting the love of her life, Vince. In 1990, the two moved to Townsend, where they made their home in the only bright yellow house on the block—a home that reflected Debbie’s colorful personality and vibrant spirit.

Raising her girls was never a quiet affair. Debbie made sure they were up bright and early, sometimes with the sound of her tambourine. Her home was filled with loud music, dancing, and singing, with whatever kitchen utensil happened to be within reach serving as a microphone. She had a way of turning ordinary moments into memories that would last a lifetime.

Debbie was an artist at heart, always finding ways to bring color and creativity into her surroundings. From painting murals on her closet doors to brightening her home one colorful wall at a time, she expressed herself in everything she touched. She loved poems, paintings, collecting knickknacks, and finding countless ways to share her love with those around her.

Her love for animals, especially dogs, was immeasurable. Her animals were her entire world, and over the years, many four-legged companions were lucky enough to be part of her life. And, of course, no memory of Debbie would be complete without mentioning her cooking. Her meals had a way of bringing everyone back for thirds, leaving full bellies and happy hearts around her table.

Debbie lived life in her own colorful way. She loved loudly, created freely, and made an impression that will live on in the memories of everyone fortunate enough to know her. Whether through music, art, animals, a home-cooked meal, or one of her many expressions of love, Debbie had a way of making life a little brighter.

Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Mickey Lenahan and Samuel Akins; her siblings, Steven Akins, Sam (Jay) Akins, Donna Reed, and Ronnie Akins; and the many beloved dogs who shared her life.

Debbie is survived by her loving husband, Vince Schmaus; her beloved dogs, Hector and Sparky; and her siblings, Bonnie Hurlburt, Terry (Allen) Hibs, Toni (Kevin) Akins, Candie Partridge, and Cathy Anderson. She also leaves behind her three daughters, Steph (Tim) Hensley-Parrotte, Billie Parrotte, and Holly Parrotte; her grandchildren, Cede Meier, Kayla Lessley, Jordan Hoff, Lexi Lessley, Taeler (Colton) Dorrington, Ethan (Katana) Hoff, Olivia Hensley, and Cannon Hensley; and seven great-grandchildren. Along with many extended family and friends.

Debbie’s love, laughter, creativity, and colorful spirit will live on through the family she loved so dearly and the countless memories she leaves behind. To know Deb Jo is to know endless love.

Celebration of Life will be on Saturday, October 24th, 2026, at 1pm at the Watsons Gym- 4; Litening Barn Rd, Townsend, MT 59644. We are doing a potluck style for lunch, please bring your favorite dish to share and bring your own drinks.

Article Images

Click on Image Thumbnail(s) to view fullsize image
PhotoCredit: Family of Debbie Jo Schmaus
Image 1 Caption: Debbie Jo Schmaus Photo Provided