I only spent time with Debbie for one day, in October of 2007.  I heard so much about her, from my Mom Nancy, who had spent the last few years caring for her.  My first impression of Debbie, was that of kindness, warmth, and joy.  Even with all of the health issues that she had to deal with, she always had a smile on her face.  She made me laugh, with her wonderful sense of humor.  I have never had someone, that I met for one day, leave such a lasting impression on me.  She will forever remind me, that no matter what life gives you, always remain positive.  She loved living.  I will always be reminded, that when I am having a rough day, I will remember that it is nothing compared to the tough times that she had to deal with.  Yet, she always seemed happy.  That is remarkable.  Debbie, my Mom will always love you, and think of you every day.  I feel very fortunate, to have met, and spent time with you, for that one day.  That one day, you left a lasting impression in my heart, and I won't forget that. I truly know, that you are pain free, and happy in Heaven.  "Have a blessed day"
                                                                      Love, Mike.

Debbie you are such a special person and my mom truly loves you! Cullen, Domino and I are so glad we were able to know you too.  You made us laugh and giggle.  Merm and you were funny and we enjoyed so much the time we spent with you.  We didn't get to see you in California, but I think Merm will continue that dream... I will always remember being able to talk to you that day.  Rest in peace Debbie.  Love, Marina

I love you Debbie.  I love your cat. I love Merm. Say Hi to God in heaven. Love Domino

Debbie was one of the first people I met at Gahanna Lincoln High School back in 1977.  Wow it's been that long.  She was then, and always continued to be one of the most up-beat and positive people I ever had the pleasure to meet and get to know.  

Debbie endured many personal trials in her life, some of them a product of the choices she made, but most of them forced upon her.  I have never known any one who remained as positive and good-natured throughout each and every stumbling block she faced.  She was always our smiling, happy-go-lucky, sweet Debbie.   If ever a person could have been bitter, if ever a person could have sulked, if ever a person could have wallowed in self-pity, if ever a person could have asked "why me?",  Debbie certainly had license.  She chose; however, to be happy in spite of all the bad things that happened to her, to never complain that I can remember and to instead focus on the good.

I have great respect and admiration for Debbie's spirit, one that we can all learn from.

I'll see you in heaven, friend.

Carla Monagan

i did,nt get a chance to tell you how thankful to you i am. when we were in the hospital you were my mouth when i could,nt talk for my self.i knew then debbie was some one i would have a real friendship with. i,m so glad we met! i remember we use to play cards til the wee hours of night.my kids truly appreciated you also.i promise to be a aunt to torey! and you will be missed! i,ll think of the lyrics to this song,gone too soon! tina and family.

Dear Family and Friends,

Today, Monday, April 12, I am lighting a candle in Debbie’s memory.

I went to the Manor at Whitehall today.  Since July 2007, Debbie spent time (three stays) at this nursing and rehabilitation home.  I wanted to thank the staff for all they did for Debbie.  They went above and beyond to care and provide for her in many special ways.

One of the staff mentioned how energetic Debbie was.  She participated with enthusiasm in so many of the activities.  She interacted with everyone.  She made a difference wherever she was.  She was very active at home, too.  Between surgeries, infections, hospitals, nursing homes and doctor visits, we were busy.  We went shopping (her favorite pastime) and went out often to good restaurants.  We celebrated holidays with family and friends.  She down-loaded the music she loved so much.  Also, on the computer and with logic books, she continued to work hard improving her mind.  She was constantly coming up with new recipes for me to try.  She sure kept me hopping with her ideas and errands!

Debbie was just so alive.  She had so many dreams and never let go of them.  She continued to keep making plans and loved talking about the future.

What an unforgettable person!  I, for one, was so fortunate to have her in my life.

All for now

Nancy

Dear Family and Friends of Debbie,

Please know that Debbie never lost her spirit or her sense of humor.  However, she did lose her body.  

Her body was just not strong enough to sustain our unforgettable Debbie.  She came home from the hospital the last time (Sunday, March 28) with the words ‘failure to thrive'.  She determining said she would change that diagnosis.  She would eat tomorrow.  Well, each tomorrow came; her body just did not want her to eat.  She drank water, lots of water; asked for her favorite liquids (she only took a few sips of each).  Saturday, April 3, just to humor me, she ate six strawberries, six blackberries, half a banana and half a cup strawberry instant breakfast.  

For the first time, Monday morning (April 5), she did not want her pills.  And, at the end of that day, she succumbed in her own bed at home.  

Being with Debbie these past years as her dear friend and caregiver has been my privilege and honor.  We always talked, shared and laughed.  (We also shared a lot of bantering back and forth that seemed to amuse others.)  

I will always remember Debbie’s wonderful sense of humor.  No matter where we went (shopping-her favorite past time, doctors’ offices, hospitals, nursing homes, homes of family or friends, restaurants), Debbie had everyone laughing.  She had a gift with words and a special way of phrasing them.  She had facial expressions that were truly unique and unforgettable; and clearly showed us her feelings.  

Never forget, Debbie loved her family and friends, always and forever.  Also, Debbie had a very strong faith which never once faltered during her illnesses.

Au revoir, Debbie, you are in our hearts as we were in yours.

Nancy Macumber

OBITUARY

Deborah Porter

October 10, 1962 – April 5, 2010

Schoedinger Midtown

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