Debra (Petru) Choate was born and raised on a farm east of Hennessey by Henry and Barbara Petru. She was one of three daughters (Linda and Cindy) they raised on the farm. Growing up on the farm, mornings and evenings consisted of chores (milking cows, cooking, cleaning, etc). Henry, having Multiple Sclerosis, was determined to continue to work hard and farm until MS made it not possible. Barbara was right by his side, working just as hard- helping on the farm with the girls and having a job in town. Debra had great examples growing up, which shows through her hard work, dedication to family, and kindness. Debra graduated from Hennessey High School in 1973.
While in high school and after graduation, Debra worked for Choate Insurance/Tag Agency. Justin and Debra married on May 7, 1976, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Hennessey. They have been married for 48 years. Justin and Debra have three children: Julie, Keith (deceased) and Shelley. After having children, raising them, and helping on the farm, Debra decided to start substitute teaching at schools. It was at this point Justin was her inspiration to become a teacher. He told her, instead of substituting, why don’t you go to college and become a teacher? So she did! Not only did she go back to college and get her teaching degree, but she did it with small children at home, hectic schedules, continued taking care of her family without missing a beat, and made it look easy. Debra went to Phillips University in Enid from 1988-1992, graduating with her Elementary Education Degree. She taught 2nd,3rd, and 4th grades at Hennessey Public Schools for 30 years upon retiring in 2023. Justin and Debra have seven grandchildren: Wyatt, Cole, and Brett in Oklahoma and Stephanie, Allison, Ava and Chase in Colorado. Debra has also clerked many auctions alongside Justin auctioning. Debra was also one of the best women trap shooters, traveling all over the United States with Justin, shooting clays. Debra loves being outside, working in flower beds, gardening (when grasshoppers are not eating it as fast as it comes up), baking, and spending time with family. AAH, Shelley Muzny
