

Born in Reading, Pennsylvania, in 1945, Deborah was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Annette (Peterson) Winter, and her sisters, Naomi Rauff and Judy Russell. Deborah and her sister Naomi shared a lifelong bond marked by love, friendship, and unwavering support. Though Naomi's passing left a void in Deborah's life, the family takes comfort in knowing the sisters are together once more.
Deborah lived in Bergen County, New Jersey, and Clermont, Florida, creating lasting friendships and connections in each community. She earned a bachelor's degree in Spanish from Westminster College and began her professional career teaching Spanish. Later, she joined General Reproduction Products, Inc., where she worked alongside her husband, William "Bill" Alexander, for many years.
Deborah enjoyed many interests and hobbies. She was an accomplished contract bridge player who participated in numerous tournaments over the years. She loved spending time at the beach, especially on Captiva Island, Florida, where she enjoyed many happy vacations. She also had a well-known sweet tooth and never passed up an opportunity to enjoy chocolate. Throughout her life, Deborah remained active in her faith communities. She participated in Bible study groups and church choirs at Calvary Lutheran Church in Allendale, New Jersey, and later at Woodlands Lutheran Church in Montverde, Florida. Her faith and church friendships remained an important part of her life.
One of Deborah's greatest passions was her love of dogs. For more than two decades, she volunteered with Canine Companions in both New Jersey and Florida as a dedicated puppy raiser. Through her volunteer work, she helped prepare future service dogs that would go on to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Her beloved dog, Royce, remained a cherished companion throughout her later years.
Deborah is survived by her husband, William Alexander, her daughters, Kirsten (Kurt) Blunck and Megan Nesbitt, her grandchildren, August and Everett Blunck and Connor and Graham Nesbitt, her stepchildren, Dwayne (Joanne), Cindy, and Darren (Tracy) Alexander, her step-grandchildren, Bobby, Melissa, Matt, Kayla, Chris, and Ryan Alexander and Sarah Grilli, her brother, Fred Winter, and many extended family members and friends.
Deborah's family is grateful for the care, compassion, and support provided by her hospice team, aides, friends, and neighbors during her final days.
A memorial service and celebration of Deborah's life will take place at Woodlawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park in Gotha, Florida, on November 10, 2026.
Visitation will be held at Woodlawn Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, FL 34734, US, on November 10, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.
A Funeral Service will take place at Woodlawn Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, FL 34734, US, on November 10, 2026, at 1:00 pm.
A Committal Service will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park & Cremation Gardens, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, FL 34734, US, on November 10, 2026, at 2:00 pm.
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