Deborah Gay Rauhut

Deborah Gay Rauhut, of Potosi departed this life on January 17th, 2025, in St. Louis, surrounded by the love and care of her family. Deborah was born on December 3rd, 1952, in Bonne Terre, she was the daughter of the late Robert Lee Simpson and Beverly Deborah (Wood) Simpson.
​ Deborah was united in marriage to William Rauhut of Potosi on August 7th, 1999. 
Deborah was a dedicated educator, retiring in 2013 after many years of teaching. She was also an Administrative Assistant at the Pregnancy Resource Center where she had a profound impact on those she interacted with. Her academic achievements included earning a bachelor’s degree, beyond her professional accomplishments, Deborah took pride in finding ways to teach and give back to her community.
As a Sunday School teacher and an active participant in her church, Deborah had a heart for children and was deeply involved in the Overflow Ministry. She also enjoyed playing piano for Potosi First Baptist Church. Her greatest passion was spending quality time with her beloved family and grandchildren, celebrating every moment spent together.
Deborah is survived by her loving husband, William Rauhut; her two daughters, Alisia Wright and husband Tim of Potosi, Michelle Knobeloch and husband Russell, of Potosi; her two sons, Wayman DeClue and wife Jaci of Dupo, Illinois, and Matthew DeClue of Potosi; a sister, Diana Price and husband Kenny of DeSoto; two brothers, Robert Simpson of Carlsbad, New Mexico, Clay Simpson and wife Donna of Hartman, Arkansas. Eight grandchildren, Trevor and wife Mikayla, Nathaniel, Aaron, Gabriel, Seth, Ava, Walker, and Allison; five great-grandchildren, Aubrianna, Addilyn, Anniston, Avenn, Khalea, and Ethan; five bonus grandchildren, Mia, Jon, James, Heaven, and Oaklynn.
Deborah leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to family and community. She will be deeply missed and remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Visitation for Deborah was held Wednesday, January 22nd from 3 to 8 P.M. at Moore Funeral Home in Potosi. Visitation resumed Thursday, January 23rd from 9 to 11 A.M. at Potosi First Baptist Church with a funeral service beginning at 11 A.M. with Pastor Jim Ainley officiating. 
Burial and final prayers took place at Sunset Hill Cemetery in Potosi. Serving as pallbearers were Trevor Kean, Nathaniel Knobeloch, Gabe Knobeloch, Aaron Wright, Seth Wright, Walker Wright and Ethan Pennell. 
All services were under the care and direction of Moore Funeral Home in Potosi.