Born on April 5, 1952, in Paterson, NJ, Deborah, affectionately known as “Debbie” to family and friends, was the daughter of Gloria (née Iorlano) DeBlaker and James Dowd, Sr. Her warmth and devotion touched many roles: a loving child, spouse, parent, sibling, aunt, and friend. In the winter of 1970, Debbie met Steve. Together they journeyed through his final year in the Army and were married on June 24, 1972, at St. James Church in Totowa, NJ. They shared a beautiful love story. One with equal adoration and respect for one another. If you were in a room with them, you could observe the way they looked at each other, indicating a fresh and enduring connection. For twenty-five years, Debbie worked as a skilled pharmacy technician and was recognized for her compassion and dedication. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures: reading, needlepointing, and fishing beside Steve.
She was a loving Mother to David and Spencer and loved spending time with her grandchildren Ciara, Dakota, and Caleb. She also had a great sense of humor and wit. Her niece describes her as having a lively, positive and confident personality, just like her mother Gloria.
Debbie is survived by her husband of nearly 53 years, Steve Pittman; sons David and Spencer; grandchildren Ciara, Dakota, and Caleb; brother James Dowd Jr.; and niece Amber Loughrey. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother David.
A service to honor Debbie's life will be held at Smith-McCracken Funeral Home, 63 High St, Newton, NJ on Saturday, June 28, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with a memorial service beginning at 6 p.m.. All who knew her are welcome to attend.
