Deborah A. (Huff) McCallister

Deborah A. (Huff) McCallister, 66, a lifelong South Bend resident passed away on Monday April 13, 2026, after a several year battle with cancer, which she handled with resilience and determination.

Deb was born on February 18, 1960, in South Bend to the late Robert and Frances (Lukasiak) Huff. From a young age, she carried herself with independence, certainty, and a sharp mind.

Deb worked as a controller for Dynamic Mechanical Services in Mishawaka, IN, where she was known for her attention to detail and no-nonsense approach.  This made her a well-respected part of the team until her retirement in December 2025. 

She married the love of her life, John, in 1999 and together they blended their families and shared the last 30 plus years together.  They loved spending time together on vacations to places like Mackinac Island and Maine; and camping trips when the kids were little – where it almost always seemed to rain and somehow ended with everyone packing up in the middle of the night.  All these moments, imperfect and unforgettable, were some of their fondest memories. 

Deb was a lifelong Eagles fan and loved going to see live music with her family.  Some of her favorites were Elton John and Billy Joel.  She also loved dancing along to music with her grandkids. 

Deb is survived by her husband, John, and her children; Corey (Jesse) Payne, Sarah Stokes, Aaron Stokes, and Carrie McCallister, as well as her 10 grandchildren and her siblings; Judy (Chris) Garcia and Bobbi Gann.  She was the kind of mom who gave the best advice, and always made her children’s friends feel like part of the family. 

In keeping with her wishes, no services will be held; but a celebration of life will be held in early summer. 

Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel is honored to be caring for the family.

Online condolences may be sent via the Palmer Funeral Homes website at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.