Deborah Lynne Armstrong

Born on August 29, 1955, in Columbus, Ohio, Deborah was the daughter of Kathryn and John Petty, both of whom preceded her in death. She grew up in Columbus and graduated from Eastmoor High School in 1973. Her passion for the performing arts led her to Ohio University, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in theatre in 1977.

From an early age, Deborah was drawn to dance and performance. Trained in ballet since childhood, she flourished on stage at Ohio University, starring in numerous theatrical productions. After college, she toured for eight months with the musical "Ohio, USA" captivating people across the state. Her talents extended beyond the stage—she starred in a PBS movie and lent her voice to commercials and radio programs. In 1983, she performed in and designed costumes for Maggie Patton’s Dancentral, a testament to her multifaceted artistry.

Deborah later returned to Ohio University as an instructor, teaching stage movement and dance to aspiring performers. As her career evolved, she continued to share her voice through recordings for commercials, audiobooks, and films. She also worked across television, media, and print before transitioning into a new chapter at Jackson National Life Insurance, where she eventually retired.

While Deborah’s professional accomplishments were many, her greatest joy came from her family. She was a devoted mother to her daughters Claire (Michael) Chirillo and Katie Bennett. Her love extended deeply to her grandchildren—Benjamin and Nathan Chirillo; Kaelyn, Audrey, and James Bennett—each of whom brought immense pride and happiness into her life.

Deborah's commitment to her daughters’ lives was unwavering. She volunteered tirelessly for their Girl Scout troops and sporting events and choreographed their middle school musicals for five consecutive years. Her home was filled with music from her singing voice, the aroma of home-cooked meals from her kitchen, and the warmth of laughter during family vacations she so thoughtfully planned.

She shared a close bond with her siblings—sister Merry Kay and brothers Charles Petty and David Petty—and remained deeply connected to the memory of her beloved parents throughout her life.

Deborah’s heart was generous and tender. She had an innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Her sense of humor could brighten any room, and she carried a deep compassion that made others feel seen and valued. Grounded in faith, she sought God daily and lived with grace and purpose.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her—in every song sung around a kitchen table, every story read aloud to a grandchild, every dance step taken with joy.

May Deborah Armstrong’s life continue to inspire kindness, creativity, and love in all who remember her.

A visitation for Deborah will be held Wednesday, September 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, 205 E Washington, DeWitt, MI 48820.

The memorial service will take place Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the funeral home. The family will gather to greet friends beginning at 10:00 AM until the service.