Mary "Debi" Deborah Adams

Debi was born to Ann and Lawrence Sullivan. Her parents later divorced, and her mother married Robert “Bob” Strecker, who became an important part of Debi’s life.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eulis Vernon “Bugg” Adams, and her daughter, Stefanie Adams.

Debi shared 52 years of marriage with her husband. Debi and Bugg built a life and raised their family together. They both enjoyed home improvement and took pride in working on their homes over the years.

Debi is survived by her two daughters, Melissa Rizzi (Steven) and Amy Drabinski (Timothy); her grandsons, Aleksander Rizzi (Kristin) and Nikolas Rizzi (Jordan); and her great-grandson, River Rizzi.

Debi grew up as part of a large family. Her biological siblings were Donna Sullivan, Pepper Sullivan, Patricia Armour, William Sullivan, and her twin sister, Mary Rebecca “Becki” Eldredge. Her family also included her stepsiblings, Robert Strecker, Jr., Theri Blanton, Cathy Ray, and Mary Beth Thibeau, as well as her sister- and brother-in-law, Reva and Rodney Hoke.

Among her many family relationships, the bond Debi shared with her twin sister, Becki, was especially special. As Debi’s only surviving biological sibling, Becki shared with her not only the unique connection of being twins, but a lifelong friendship and sisterhood. Debi and Becki remained extremely close throughout their lives.

Debi graduated from Copley High School and continued her education at Kent State University. She enjoyed a long and successful career in real estate as an Operations Manager, dedicating 30 years to her profession before retiring. Retirement didn't keep Debi still for long. She later went to work at Dillard's, where she eventually retired for a second time. While working at Dillard’s, Debi made many friends and enjoyed the relationships she formed there.

Debi was strong and independent, always willing to speak her mind, yet thoughtful and caring in the ways that mattered most. Debi was never boastful and always a good listener. She found happiness in the comforts of home and in the simple things she enjoyed most.

She loved shopping, home décor, and home improvement. She had a knack for decorating and simply had good taste, something we all admired. She was often our go-to, whether we needed her approval or help selecting.

Debi loved the holidays, especially the food, traditions, and time spent with family. She loved to cook and was known for many of her recipes. Her family looked forward to the dishes she made and the traditions that went along with them. Her recipes will continue to be made, shared, and passed down through the family for years to come.

Debi lived life in her own way and stayed true to who she was. She loved her family, her home, and the things she enjoyed. She leaves behind many memories, traditions, recipes, and plenty of “Debi-isms” that her family will continue to remember and repeat for years to come.

She was greatly loved and will be deeply missed.