Deborah Snyder Bussart

Deborah “Debbie” Snyder Bussart was born on August 17, 1943, in Narberth, Pennsylvania, the third child of George Snyder and Frances (Lux) Snyder. She grew up alongside her sister Ann Elizabeth and her brother Terry (also known as George III), forming close family bonds that endured throughout her life.

Debbie attended Narberth School for most of her grammar school years before continuing on to Baldwin School for junior high and high school. A gifted and competitive athlete, she played field hockey and basketball, but her greatest love was lacrosse, where she played right wing. During her years at Baldwin, she formed lifelong friendships that she treasured deeply. Known affectionately as the “Baldwin Buddies,” this close-knit group gathered often for reunions over the years. Debbie later attended Bouvé College in Boston for one year before transferring to Hollins College, where she continued her education with the independence and confidence that defined her character.

It was at Hollins College that Debbie met James “Jim” Bussart on a blind date. Jim was a political science student at nearby Washington & Lee University, and despite falling asleep on that very first date, he won Debbie’s heart. A Southern boy through and through, Jim charmed Debbie’s Main Line family by arriving for a visit with bib overalls for everyone to wear to dinner—an idea that, to everyone’s delight, they happily embraced.

Jim had to propose twice. Debbie said no the first time, believing they were simply too young. The second time was the charm. They were married on February 11, 1967, beginning a partnership marked by love, humor, and deep devotion.

Together, they built a family, welcoming their son Tim in August 1968 and their daughter Suzanne in January of 1972. Debbie embraced motherhood with devotion, strength, and unwavering pride.

After settling in Marietta in 1973 at 265 Pine Tree Drive, Debbie and Jim quickly became the heart of their neighborhood. They were famous for hosting lively New Year’s Eve parties and for lighting up the cul-de-sac with fireworks on many Fourths of July. As Suzanne and Tim grew older, Debbie and Jim later moved to East Park, where they once again became pillars of the community, forming deep and enduring friendships.

When Jim began to suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, Tim moved back home to help care for him. During this time, the family adopted a rescue dog, Buddy, who quickly became a beloved fixture in the neighborhood—often seen alongside Debbie, bringing smiles wherever he went.

Debbie began her professional career working in a doctor’s office before finding her calling in education. She went on to enjoy a decades-long career as a paraprofessional at Sope Creek Elementary School, where she supported students and teachers with patience, dedication, and compassion. She retired in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of quiet service and care.

Friends and family alike remember Debbie as a ray of sunshine, known for her beautiful and ready smile, her warm heart, and her excellent sense of humor. She was deeply active in her faith community and valued the meaningful connections she formed through her small group at Eastminster Presbyterian Church.

Debbie also cherished time spent traveling with Jim. Her favorite vacation was a road trip out west the two took together in 1996—an adventure she lovingly documented by journaling the entire journey.

One of Debbie’s greatest joys came in 2014, when she became a grandmother. Known lovingly as “Meema,” she adored her grandson Jesse, delighting in every milestone and cherishing the special bond they shared.

Along with her parents, Debbie was preceded in death by her sister, Ann Elizabeth; her beloved husband, Jim Bussart; and her devoted son, Tim Bussart.

Debbie passed away on January 17, 2026, after a valiant fight against cancer. She faced her illness with courage, grace, and resilience—just as she lived her life.

She is survived by her daughter, Suzanne La Forgia, and her beloved grandson, Jesse, who brought her immeasurable joy and pride.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 21, 2026, at 11:00am at Eastminster Presbyterian Marietta, Georgia.