Debra McNair Calhoun, 58, had been involved with the Hillsborough County Head Start program since she was 20 years old.

Last Thursday, Mrs. Calhoun was found on the floor of her apartment by co-workers after she hadn’t shown up for work. She was hospitalized, and pronounced dead Friday.

Mrs. Calhoun was a 1971 graduate of Howard W. Blake High School, and although her demeanor was quiet, she was well known and well respected. She was also an excellent student.

According to family members, Mrs. Calhoun had complained of not feeling well after getting a flu shot, but had not experienced any health problems earlier.

Co-workers and close friends said her death was sudden and unexpected.

Head Start/early Head Start Director, Louis Finney, said Mrs. Calhoun was a popular employee and very dependable.

“She had been recognized by the agency for her great attendance on several occasions, and throughout her career, she’s had over 1,000 children come through her classroom.

“Mrs. Calhoun started as a teacher’s assistant, and later became the lead teacher and longest serving employee in Hillsborough County Head Start.” Finney said Mrs. Calhoun left a long list of people who will miss her dearly, and she also left her personal impression on him.

“She was always courteous, and she was returning to school to finish her education in Early Childhood Education.

“In 2000, Mrs. Calhoun was recognized and honored as teacher of the Year. She will be missed by the head start community at the West Tampa Center, and the Early Head Start staff at Kimmins.”

Mrs. Calhoun was the second daughter of Mrs. Ruth McNair, who is head of the West Riverfront Neighborhood Association and Crime Watch. She has two sisters, Ann and Linda, a daughter, Tasha Valdez, and 1 grandchild. Ms. Patricia Ferrell-Hunter is known by the family as her adopted sister.

Ray Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements for a service.