Deborah Linn Spangler
Deborah Linn Spangler, age 62, of Shelby, died peacefully at her home on Monday morning, June 2, 2025. Deb’s death follows a nearly two-year courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer.
Born July 4, 1962, in Willard, she graduated in 1980 from Shelby High School and attended North Central Technical College earning an associate’s degree in law enforcement. For many years, Deb was employed at First National Bank of Shelby. It was later that she returned to North Central to become a Licensed Practical Nurse- a career she flourished in. Debby loved caring for her patients at Shelby Pointe, later JAG Healthcare Shelby. She remained employed there until her cancer diagnosis where her time and energy transferred to making memories with family and friends and being steadfast in her battle- all of which was done with grace, patience, and determination.
On August 14, 1982 Deb married Gary Eugene Spangler. Together they raised their three children and enjoyed a life of adventures. They loved to travel, especially their trip to Alaska, annual trips to Florida, visits to the casino, and going to concerts which catered to her love of music. However, trips to Lake Erie for camping, boating, and fishing were at the top of the list all while enjoying time with family and friends.
Deb was devoted to her family, loved them extensively, and was dedicated to attending all the activities they were involved with. She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 43 years, Gary; her children: Bryan Spangler of Orlando, FL, Kevin (Lyndsee) Spangler of Greenwich, and Laura (Jake) Hummel of Shelby; her beloved grandchildren: Kayden and Sylas Spangler and Alex, Layla, and Reed Hummel; her father: Lawrence Alfred Kime of Cridersville; siblings: Jill (Jim) Blunt, Amber (Chris) Burkett, and Jeff (Sally) Kime; mother-in-law: Jeanette Spangler; in-laws: Debra Spangler, Linda Spangler, Linda (Ed) Whited, and Doug (Dawn) Spangler; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Debby was preceded in death by her mother: Crystal Harlene (Newman) Rita; stepfather: Phil Rita; father-in-law: Gene Spangler, and brother-in-law: Ron Spangler.
Family and friends are welcome on Thursday, June 5, 2025 from 3-7 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby where a rosary will be recited at 7 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Friday, June 6, 2025 at 10:30 am at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 29 West Street, Shelby with Fr. Chris Mileski celebrating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church.
Condolences may be made on Deb’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
To view Deb’s tribute video click here: Deb’s tribute video.
Gary and kids, I’m so very sorry for your loss. I loved Debbie she was such a kind soul. She took so good care of my dad while he was there, up until he passed. She definitely was called to be a nurse. She will be very missed.
Dear Deb’s Family,
Deb was such a huge part of my childhood and a dear friend no matter how much time between visits as adults. I dragged Barbie cases down to her house and we set up on the front porch. I learned to add eggs to tuna salad from your Grandma at the house in the Blvd. We walked to elementary school together and later carpooled as sophomores. Lots of fun overnights and helping to watch siblings, playing until dark before riding bikes home, visiting grandparents at the farm in Greenwich, and hanging in Willard
with her uncle. Later, she came with my family on a trip out west. When she was
getting ready to marry Gary, I had the
pleasure of encouraging her to wear the
wedding dress she wanted to choose.It was fun catching up when we could as the kids grew, although never enough time! I am so happy you have so many memories with her. I am sad we didnt get any time together this year as I was fighting my own cancer battle. Many condolences and so much love to all of you.
My sincere condolences to Gary and family. May Debbie rest in eternal peace. ❤️ my prayers for the entire family. ❤️
I am saddened to hear of Debbie’s passing but now no more pain. I knew Debbie from Shelby Pointe when I did activities there and she was a wonderful nurse. Cherish your memories and good times. Her smile and kindness will not be forgotten.
Gary and family, so very sorry to hear of Debby’s passing. She was a sweet gentle soul. Our prayers are will you all.
Laura and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of Deb, We were friends way back in elementary then when you and Kelsi became good friends, it became a full circle. You have my deepest condolences.
Pam
Gary, Bryan, Kevin, and Laura Jill, Amber and Jeff
We are so sorry to hear about Deb’s passing. She was such a gentle soul! May she fly with the Angels!
R.I. P
Bob &Jeanne Snipes
Farewell my lifelong friend….job well done on this earth. You and Gary have wonderful children that will keep your memory alive for years to come! Fly high Debby
❤️Julie Ensman
My sincere condolences to Gary and his family over the loss of your beloved wife and mother.
I’m so sorry to hear of Deb’s passing. We were neighbors through the backyards for many years. I pray that she is at peace and I pray for strength to get you all through this difficult time. Remember all the good times you had with her.
To Deb’s family,
My heart breaks to hear of Deb’s passing. Deb and I graduated together in the class of 1980. I have many fond memories, her smile, her laugh, her gentle way.
My sincerest condolences to Gary and family. She was a true gem.
Fly high Deb.
Sincerely,
Brigette Harrison
I am very sorry to learn of Deb’s passing. She was a wonderful person. May she rest in peace.
Sorry for your loss. Prayers.
Dear Deb and family, so sorry to hear of your loss. Treasure the memories you had together as a family.
I want to send my condolences to your family. As so many others have stated, Deb had the best smile, and always so upbeat! RIP Deb. You will be missed.
Our prayers, heart and condolences go out to Gary and all the families. I worked with Deb at First National Bank on Mansfield Avenue. She was always happy & smiling with all of her customers. Everyone loved her. She was such a wonderful person & was so great to work with. She will be sadly missed. Rest in peace Deb.
We are so sorry for your loss. Sending heartfelt condolences to your family during this difficult time. Wishing you peace, comfort, and strength in the days ahead. Holding you close in our thoughts and prayers.
With love and sympathy.
Gary and family, my deepest sympathies.
Shelby has lost yet another angel.
Aunt Jeanette — take care of your flock in this time of distress.
We are so very sorry to learn of this loss. Debbie and I (Jean) worked for years at the bank together, and we had so much fun then and after our banking years. Gary and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. She is fondly remembered, and we pray your memories will stay close and bring comfort. -Jean and Doug
Oh Gary, where do I even start? From all those years ago when you moved next door and meeting you for the first time I guess. Laura hanging on your leg at the make shift fence we had for Fred and Wilma. When leaving Howard said “Goodbye, Laurie”. Laura immediatly telling him “My name is LAURA”. Bryan being SO polite to us! Kevin, our little paper boy (sometimes forgetting us) 🙂 Howard said “Don’t complain!, he will always remember you as the grouchy old neighbor lady that got him in trouble!” I never complained. He was too cute! You all have been the best neighbors anyone could have and we will forever miss hearing Deb laughing when she had her family close. We wish you all strength in the days ahead!