Debra K. Blackburn

Debbie Blackburn, 67, of Akron, passed away suddenly leaving family and friends shocked and heartbroken. Debbie was born Nov. 20, 1954 in Paintsville, KY. She grew up in Tallmadge and later moved to Akron where she lived the rest of her life. She worked in the health care industry for many years in nursing homes and home health care. Because of her caring spirit the people that she cared for, and their families, kept in touch with Debbie long after she retired. Debbie had a passion for animals. She hated to see anything abused or neglected. Especially stray cats. She couldn't turn any away. If you were on Facebook with her you saw this passion in the many posts of animals that she like to share. She loved music too. Especially Bruce Springsteen! She grew up saying she was going to marry him. She never did but it wasn't for lack of trying after seeing the many ticket stubs to his concerts. We will not be able to hear a Springsteen song again without thinking of her. She loved spending time with her grandson Dylan. We are sorry that they weren't given more time together. Debbie was an independent, free-spirited person who always lived a bit off the beaten path. We will so miss that about her. Debbie loved her family and friends and will be forever missed.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Sarah Ansel; and father Darold Zickefoose.
Debbie leaves behind her mother, Oretha Zickefoose; son Shawn (Annette); grandson Dylan; siblings Lela (Ken) Marana, Keith (Sandy) Zickefoose and Gina (John) Darmstadt; plus many nieces, nephews, family and friends who loved her.
Visitation will be held Wednesday from 5:00PM to 7:00PM at Newcomer Funeral Home (131 N. Canton Rd., Akron) where services will be held on Thursday at 11:00AM with Ethan Marana officiating.
Interment will take place at Tallmadge Cemetery.
The family invites you to visit www.NewcomerAkron.com to sign the online guestbook and share fond memories.