Debra Ruth (Spangler) Blair

On, July 11, 2026, the world lost a remarkable woman, Debra Ruth (Spangler) Blair, who passed away peacefully in Buda, Texas, after bravely battling Alzheimer’s disease since 2016. Born on January 21, 1955, in Austin, Texas, Deb’s 71 years of life were filled with love, joy, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends, and faith.

Deb was the beloved daughter of Chuck and Donnie (Freund) Spangler, who preceded her in death, and was raised in Austin. She attended John H. Reagan High School where, because of her joyful and accepting attitude, she was friends with everyone. Her peers recognized her radiant spirit by voting her head cheerleader and homecoming queen. She married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Tom Blair, on June 7, 1975, in Austin, Texas. Their union was blessed with three wonderful children: Christine Rae (Blair) Hummer, Jacqueline Renee (Blair) Cuellar, and Brian Blair.

Her educational journey was a testament to her determination and strength. Deb earned a BA in Journalism from the University of Texas, a remarkable achievement while raising three children. She also earned her black belt in Tae Kwan Do in her late 30s, a reflection of her discipline, perseverance, and adventurous spirit. She chose to dedicate her life to being a stay-at-home mom, raising her children with boundless love and care. Deb converted to Catholicism shortly after her marriage to Tom and was actively involved in Catholic women’s groups, Bible studies, and multiple retreats. Her faith was her anchor throughout her life.

Deb’s greatest joy was in being a mother. She wholeheartedly supported her children in every stage of their lives—whether it was school, sports, or personal passions—and she encouraged them to follow their own goals and dreams. She nurtured their independence while always being their strongest cheerleader, and she took immense pride in the people they became.

Deb’s joyful presence left an imprint wherever she went. She was known for her great smile, her contagious laugh, and the way she made everyone feel valued. She volunteered tirelessly for causes close to her heart, including her children’s schools, her church, and organizations focused on nature, animals, and the outdoors. With her background in journalism and gift for writing, she often became the “voice” of the groups she joined. Yet, it wasn’t just her skills that stood out—Deb naturally gravitated into leadership roles, inspiring those around her with enthusiasm and encouragement.

Among her many passions, Deb had a lifelong love of animals—especially horses. Taught by her grandfather, Ed Freund, she developed an early bond with them and carried that affection throughout her life. Though she set aside her love of horses while raising her family, her dream was realized when she and Tom purchased their beloved ranch in Salado, La Posada. There, surrounded by nature and with her horses nearby, Deb thrived. She poured her heart into making La Posada a welcoming home, a joyful gathering place filled with laughter, warmth, and community for family, friends, reunions, and church events.

She lived with unmatched joy, resilience, and faith, even after her Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2016. Deb adored her grandchildren—Brooklyn Blair, Reed Blair, Emma Saccomanno, Eva Saccomanno, Nolan Cuellar, Isabel and Ellis Hummer—and cherished every moment with them. Her legacy of love and joy will forever live on in their hearts.

Deb is survived by her devoted husband, Tom Blair; her loving children, Christi and her husband Michael, Jackie and her husband Carlos, and Brian and his wife Danielle; her six grandchildren; her brother Charles (Beno) Spangler Jr. and his wife Toni.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home in Pflugerville, with a rosary prayer service following at 7:00 p.m.

A funeral mass to celebrate Deb’s life will be held on July 20, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Albert the Great Catholic Church. Following the funeral mass, a reception will be held in the parish hall of the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, in memory of Deb’s courageous battle with the disease (Alz.org) or Pioneer Farms (https://www.pioneerfarms.org/).

Deb Ruth (Spangler) Blair was truly the most joyful person anyone could ever meet. She touched lives with her smile, her kindness, her leadership, her love of animals, and her steadfast faith. She will be deeply missed, but her light will shine forever in the lives of those she inspired.

Acknowledgments: The Blair family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the many friends and family who helped with Deb’s care during her long journey with Alzheimer’s. A special word of thanks goes to Flor Hernandez, one of her regular caregivers at the end and her dear friend Kathy Crabtree, her caregiver since April 2021, who was by her side with unwavering love and support. The family also deeply appreciates the compassionate care provided by hospice staff from Hospice Austin, whose guidance and kindness made Deb’s final days peaceful.

May her soul rest in eternal peace.