We are heartbroken to share that Debby Fitzgerald, 62, of Connersville left this life on January 16, 2024. She is with Jesus, whom she loved, but whom we all know loved her infinitely more. Her body is whole again—and friends, for that we can rest in joy.

Debby knew how to use the simplest ingredients to nourish those around her. From an encouraging word to a hurting friend, to homemade provisions perfected by her intuitive cooking talent—she loved deeply and consistently.

She was an artist whose creativity could be found in every corner of her life and every room of her house: in canvases dressed in abstract shapes and color, the scent of handmade candles, the painted rocks adorning her sidewalks, and the natural forms of driftwood and sea-glass prominently displayed in her home—things of beauty and wonder were accessible and free and readily shared. And oh how she loved to share that creativity! Homemade play-doh hid in her cabinets; a treasure chest of crayons and blank sheets of paper laid in wait for her visitors. With her, scribbled snack-stained toddler artwork was always praised and placed on the refrigerator.

In Debby's hands a little would always transform into an abundance. She had the ability to grow countless peppers and tomatoes in her postage-stamp sized backyard, which produced an infinite supply of salsa stashed under her basement stairs. With a few dollars, she could bring home a library from a book sale, a trunkful of toys from a yard sale, or a wardrobe from a thrift store.

She was a loving and patient presence to her grandchildren—reading story after story until her voice was hoarse while letting MegaBlocks, Hot Wheels, dolls, and action figures take over her living room floor. With her, fussy babies were easily soothed, cranky toddlers became good sleepers, and sleepless parents got a much-needed date night.

She poured her love and guidance generously into her children. And it is really hard to find words for how much this is treasured. (Thank you, Mom.)

Debby will be deeply missed by her children, Kenya (Wayland) Lakes, of Greenfield, Rosemary (Dustin Purvis) Fitzgerald, of Richmond, Samuel (Kolby) Fitzgerald, of Lynchburg, VA, and Cassidy Fitzgerald, of Connersville; mother, Susie Hall; siblings, Rhonda Friend, Roger Hall, and Penny Wolfe; the biggest joys of her life, her grandchildren, Grayson Lakes, Avery Lakes, Warren Lakes, Theodore Purvis, Lillian Lakes, Lyla Fitzgerald, Aubrie Fitzgerald, and baby boy Purvis on the way; as well as several beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Steven Fitzgerald and dear friend, Shirley Halcomb.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at Reid Health that tended to Debby and her family through this season. And also to Dr. Jeevan Sekhar whose contagious enthusiasm and optimism encouraged Debby though her diagnosis.

A memorial service will be held at Garrison Creek Baptist on Tuesday, January 23rd at 1pm, with Pastor Tim Fluty officiating. The family requests that attendees wear cheerful colors to the service.

Memorial contributions can be made in Debby's honor to the Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary Endowment Fund.