Debra Peters Obituary

Debra Ann Peters

Nov 2, 1957 - Mar 8, 2026

Sandusky

With heavy hearts, our family shares that Debra Ann Peters passed away peacefully Sunday, March 8, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Debra was born November 2, 1957, to Elizabeth and William Hartnett. From an early age, she carried a lively spirit and warmth that would define the way she lived and loved.

As a young girl, Debra discovered a love for music and movement. She took tap lessons at Kay Lutz Dance Studio, where she was taught by Miss America, Jackie Mayer. Dance remained a joyful part of her life, and she later shared that passion by teaching disco alongside Cleveland Browns legend Thom Darden. She enjoyed yoga, belly dancing, and taking tai chi with her mother, simple moments that reflected her love of movement and her zest for life.

Throughout her life, Debra was someone who naturally cared for others. Early in her career, she worked as the clothing manager at the former Mr. Wiggs department store, where she participated in several fashion shoots. She also volunteered as a counselor for Heartbeat Teen Pregnancy, offering compassion and encouragement to young women during difficult times.

Debra later found her true calling working as a paraprofessional with Perkins Local Schools, where she served for 27 years. She worked closely with students, especially those with special needs, helping them learn, grow, and feel supported. With patience, kindness, and her ability to communicate through American Sign Language, Debra made countless children feel understood and valued.

Debra made our home a place filled with love and warmth. She loved hosting her yearly Christmas craft shows, sharing handmade creations and her delicious cooking. She enjoyed collecting antiques and appreciated the stories behind the pieces she found. Her children were the center of her world, and she was always there volunteering at events, cheering from the sidelines, and celebrating every moment with pride.

Deb had a special appreciation for life's small blessings, going for walks, boating on warm summer days, and riding on the motorcycle with her husband. Together they shared a beautiful life and would have celebrated 47 years of marriage this June, a partnership built on love, loyalty, and devotion.

Debra is survived by her loving husband, Theodore Peters; her two children, Cori Peters of Castalia and Haley (David) Crabtree of Sandusky; her four cherished grandchildren, Kaydence Wright, Jackson Crabtree, Bruce Crabtree, and Norah Crabtree; her devoted therapy dog, Tux; loving mother, Elizabeth Hartnett; her sister, Kimberly (Jeff) Walters; her brother, Jeffrey (Kim) Hartnett; sisters-in-law, Sharon Chambers and LouAnn (Gary) Cebull; brother-in-law, Thomas (Molly) Peters; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends who loved her dearly.

Debra was preceded in death by her father, William J. Hartnett; her in-laws, Robert and Marjory Peters; her son-in-law, Timothy Wright; and her grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

Though our hearts are broken, we remain grateful for the life she lived and the love she poured into everyone around her. Alzheimer's may have taken many memories here on earth, but we find peace in believing they have all been returned to her now. As she walks with Jesus, we know she remembers the laughter, the dancing, the holidays, and every moment shared with the family she loved so deeply.

Friends may call from 10 a.m. until time of funeral service at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 12, 2026, at The Chapel, 4444 Galloway Road, Sandusky, with Pastor Eric Lapata presiding. Groff Funeral Homes & Crematory is assisting family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to contribute to Debra's memory may do so to Brain Support Network, P.O. Box 7264, Menlo Park, CA 94026 or online at www.brainsupportnetwork.org.

Condolences may be shared online at www.grofffuneralhomes.com.