Deborah Ann Paholak

December 16, 1953 ~ June 7, 2025

Passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, at the age of 71, surrounded by her loving family.

Beloved mother of Michelle (Ryan) Ross, Kristy (Brian) Alleman, and John (Renee) Cisco. Cherished grandmother of Jacob, Hannah, Logan, Wyatt, Myah, and Eliza-Rose. Dear sister of Vicky (the late Delbert) Johnson and Joanne Geraltowski. She also leaves behind many other loving family members and dear friends.

Deborah was born on December 16, 1953, in Highland Park, Michigan, to the late James and Melvina Smithson. A 1971 graduate of Hazel Park High School, she went on to earn her associate degree in nursing from Oakland Community College. Deborah dedicated her career to healthcare, finding particular joy as a traveling nurse, which allowed her to combine her love for helping others with her passion for exploring the world.

Creative and curious, Deborah had a deep love for arts and crafts, reading, and puzzles. She was especially fascinated by history, most notably the Titanic, and never missed a chance to dive into a good book or documentary. A true lover of life’s simple pleasures, she never met a pastry she didn’t like. Motown music always got her dancing, and she proudly once appeared on American Bandstand.

In honoring Deborah’s vibrant spirit, her family invites everyone to celebrate her life with a sweet pastry and a good song, just as she would have loved.