This inaugural issue of Pilot! Is dedicated to the life and legacy of Debbie Huff. To those who knew her, Debbie wasn’t just an employee at Cairo Schools; she was a confidante, a force of nature, and a vital part of the district’s heartbeat. On July 28, 2024, the school district lost not just a colleague, but a friend, mentor, and leader.

Debbie’s career with Cairo Schools began as an aide at Emerson in 1994, and over time, she became the district secretary—a role that was just the beginning of her influence. “She took me under her wing,” remembers Keisha, a co-worker who became like family. “She was like a mother to me.” Debbie’s journey through the school district wasn’t just a matter of moving up the ranks; it was about making an impact on those around her, both personally and professionally. “She could run this place,” Dr. Ferrell, Superintendent of Cairo Schools, recalls with a mix of admiration and awe. “Even in the face of her illness, she’d be here at 7:30 PM, making sure everything was all right.”

Known for her no-nonsense attitude, Debbie was someone who “told it like it was.” Her cousin Terry reflects, “She wasn’t serious in a harsh way, but when she spoke, you knew she meant it.” Debbie had a gift for cutting through the noise, providing clarity and direction, whether in her professional role or her personal relationships. She had an incredible ability to balance directness with compassion, a trait that made her both respected and beloved.

But Debbie was much more than her job title. She was a woman deeply connected to her family and her community. Her colleagues describe her as someone who treated everyone equally—whether you were a fellow staff member, a student, or a community leader, you got the same level of care and respect. “She made everyone feel important,” said Keisha, recalling how Debbie treated her grandkids like her own, as her grandchildren didn’t live locally.

Debbie’s love for Cairo went beyond her professional obligations. “She wanted to see Cairo rise up again,” Dr. Ferrell said, his voice filled with emotion. Debbie had witnessed Cairo in its glory days, and she worked tirelessly to see it return to that status. She saw potential in her community and believed in the power of education and leadership to make a difference. “She was selfless,” said Dr. Ferrell. “Everything she did was about helping others, whether it was ensuring the school ran smoothly or supporting me in my role as superintendent.”

Even when her health took a downturn, Debbie remained steadfast in her dedication to Cairo Schools. “She was battling cancer for years,” Terry shared. “She beat breast cancer once, but when it came back, she was still here. She would take her laptop to chemo appointments and work on district business.” Debbie’s commitment was unshakable, even in the face of personal challenges. “It took four people to fill her shoes after she passed,” Dr. Ferrell added, highlighting just how much she handled single-handedly.

As the community reflects on Debbie’s life, it’s clear she leaves behind a legacy of resilience, commitment, and deep love for the people she served. Debbie’s dedication to Cairo Schools wasn’t just a job; it was a mission, a calling that she fulfilled with heart and soul. In my conversation with her colleagues, friends, and family, it became evident that Debbie’s life lessons will continue to guide not only the district but the spirit of this community.

I asked Terry what Debbie might share if she had a chance to offer some of her trademarked wisdom, in parting. “She’d tell our students to do their best, to explore the world, but always remember where they came from,” Terry shared. “And she’d want them to come back and help rebuild this community.” Debbie’s parting message to Cairo would undoubtedly be one of hope, unity, and perseverance—principles she lived by every day.