Deanna Kaye Havel

Deanna Kaye Ledbetter Havel was a woman who could command a room simply by walking into it. With her vibrant personality, razor-sharp wit and unapologetic individuality, Deanna was truly one of a kind. She lived boldly, laughed freely and left an unforgettable impression on everyone fortunate enough to meet her.

Born on July 25, 1966, in Roseburg, Oregon, Deanna was the daughter of Charlie and Carol Ledbetter. She attended Western Oregon University where she earned her degree in education, pursuing a career that would allow her to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

An exceptionally gifted educator, Deanna had a remarkable ability to see the potential in others and believed that the very things that made people unique were what made them extraordinary. She encouraged everyone around her to embrace their eccentricities, celebrate their individuality and never apologize for who they were. Her ability to make people feel seen, valued and accepted was one of her greatest gifts.

Deanna was never one to blend in to the background. She was spirited, outspoken, wonderfully sharp and entirely herself. She had a way of making people laugh, challenging them to think and her influence extended far beyond the classroom. Deanna had a gift for connecting with people and welcomed people from all walks of life with an open mind.

At the center of Deanna's life was her family. She cherished her parents, Charlie and Carol and the bond she had with her sisters, Kristi and Kim. Childhood memories of life at Rice Creek in Winston, Oregon were often her favorite topic around the family dinner table. Deanna's love for them ran deep and family remained her greatest source of connection and belonging.

Nothing, however, compared to the fierce love she had for her children, Mallory, Lexi and Jackson. They were her pride and joy and being their mother was the role she treasured most. She loved them whole-heartedly, championed their individuality and wanted nothing more than for them to thrive.

Deanna was preceded in death by her father, Charlie Ledbetter, and her sister, Kristina Ledbetter. She is survived by her mother, Carol Ledbetter; her sister, Kimbra Ledbetter; her three beloved children, Mallory Allen, Lexi Havel and Jackson Havel; her son-in-law, Patrick Allen; her three bonus grandchildren, Liam Allen, Jake Allen and Hayley Allen; and her nephew, Christian Schweitzer.

Deanna leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, acceptance and individuality. She reminded people that being different was something to celebrate and family was everything. She was bold, brilliant, and entirely herself - there will never be another quite like her.