Debra Ann Maher

Debra was born in Chicago, Illinois, to James Ronald Maher Sr. and Mary Louise Maher. She later made San Antonio her home, where she built a life centered on family, education, and meaningful work.

She graduated from Highlands High School in San Antonio as part of the Class of 1976. Demonstrating her lifelong dedication to learning, Debra returned to school later in life and proudly earned her Associate’s Degree from San Antonio College on May 13, 2017. She continued pursuing her goals by completing the Certified Paralegal Program through the University of Texas at San Antonio on December 14, 2019.

Debra was always the brightest light in the room. She always had a positive outlook on life and never complained even during her cancer battle. Her compassion and empathy for others were two of her best traits. She was always more concerned with the well-being of those around her more than worrying about herself. She loved listening to music and dancing. One of Debra's favorite pastimes was to get in the car and go for long drives while listening to her favorite songs. She found joy in exploring new places, new restaurants, relaxing at the beach, hiking and camping. Her strength never went unnoticed by those closest to her as she fought her cancer battle. Even on her hardest days she always focused on the sunny days ahead and kept a positive attitude. She especially loved being a grandmother and treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren. She never shied away from doing silly things to make them smile or feel loved. She loved cooking homemade meals at family gatherings; it was her way of making sure her family felt loved. She will always be remembered for her smile and kind heart. She often told people, "Don't worry, be happy!" Above all else, Debra cherished time with her family.

Debra built a successful career in business and franchise development. She most recently served as a Senior Contracts & Compliance Specialist with Marathon Petroleum Corporation, a role she held from 2014 until her passing. Earlier in her career, she worked with Tesoro and was involved in franchise development for well-known restaurant brands including Schlotzsky’s, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, and the legendary restaurant brands Bennigan’s and Steak and Ale. She was respected for her professionalism, dedication, and integrity.

Debra is preceded in death by her parents, James Ronald Maher Sr. and Mary Louise Maher, and by her sister, Patricia Maher.

She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory:

her daughter Michelle Fulcher (Pawelek) and her husband Douglas Fulcher, along with their children Nathan, Lillian, and Caleb; and her daughter Laurie Winters (Pawelek) and her husband Zach Winters, along with their children Madison, Hudson, and Brody.

She is also survived by her siblings Karen Hall (Roger), Richard Macomber (Mitzi), Colleen Lewis (Danny), and James Maher Jr. (Bridgette), as well as numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

Debra will be remembered for her strength, kindness, perseverance, and deep love for her family. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched and through the family she loved so dearly.

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away."

— Revelation 21:4