Deborah Jean McNutt

Deborah Jean McNutt, née Cooke, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2026, in Fairborn, Ohio. Born on April 30, 1948, in Dayton, Ohio, Deborah led a life characterized by devotion to her family and steadfast commitment to those she loved.

She is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 59 years, Michael McNutt, who shared in her life’s journey and supported her through every season. Together, they built a home defined by kindness, warmth, and enduring partnership. Their son, Todd McNutt, continues her legacy, cherishing the values and love that Deborah instilled as a mother.

Deborah’s nurturing spirit extended across generations. She was a proud grandmother to Lorren (Cory) Roark and Emily McNutt, and a devoted great-grandmother to Alexis McKeever, Carter McKeever, Asher Roark, and Lincoln Roark. These relationships were a source of immense pride and joy for Deborah, and she took great pleasure in watching her family grow.

Family remained at the heart of Deborah’s world. She is also survived by her sister, Patricia, and brother-in-law, Wayne Leis, as well as her nephew, Mitchell (Darcy) Leis. She held a special affection for great-nieces, Ava and Cora Leis. Deborah is also survived by her brother-in-law, Mark (Christine Sherry) McNutt and sister-in-law, Sandy (Bob) Seigel.

Deborah faced loss with grace, having been preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Eloise (Roach) Cooke. The values and family traditions inherited from them remained central to her life and character, shaping the way she cared for her own loved ones.

Deborah’s heart for others extended beyond her home and into her community. For many years, she welcomed and supported others as a receptionist at United Senior Services. With a smile and encouraging word for everyone she met, she became an enduring presence—one whose compassion and ability to brighten someone’s day will long be remembered.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the Day Spring nurses and nurse aids and special thanks to Kandyce Clark, Rosanna Harrold, Fayth Bare, Amber DeRosa, Tiara Rose and Harley Hilterbrandt.

Family and friends are invited to share in celebrating Deborah’s life at a Memorial Gathering to be held at Jackson Lytle & Lewis Life Celebration Center, 2425 N Limestone St, Springfield, OH, on August 30, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. In this gathering of loved ones, Deborah’s spirit—marked by kindness, steady love, and grace—will be honored and remembered. In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer memorial contributions be made to the American Heart Association. Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.jacksonlytle.com