Debbie Dawley

Debbie Darling Dawley, born on February 17, 1947, in Toledo, Ohio, passed peacefully at her home in Sylvania, Ohio, on November 18, 2025. She was a beacon of joy, a fun-loving spirit, and a devoted family woman whose warmth and love touched everyone she met throughout her remarkable life.

As a proud wife to Dick Dawley for an incredible 61 years, Debbie embraced the role of a nurturing partner with unwavering dedication. Together, they created a loving home that became a sanctuary for their family, where laughter echoed in the halls and love filled the air. Debbie's greatest pride was her family, especially when she and Dick welcomed the title of Nonnie and Poppie, cherishing every moment spent with their children: Jeff (Connie) Dawley, Todd Dawley, and Richie Dawley. Her six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren were the light of her life, and she often recounted the joy they brought her with the gleam of pride in her eyes.

Debbie’s adventurous culinary spirit was legendary among her family and friends. She was well-known for her homemade dishes, lovingly prepared and shared during countless family gatherings, which nourished not just the body but also the bonds of kinship. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, aroma, and love, where family recipes were handed down and new memories were made.

Beyond her kitchen, Debbie had a profound love for gardening; her green thumb brought life to their yard and beauty to the world around her. She found solace in nurturing her plants, which flourished under her attentive care, mirroring the love and dedication she poured into her family and her furry friends. Debbie was also an avid animal lover, often sharing her home and heart with her beloved pets who brought her endless joy and companionship. She was also a self appointed Antique Doll Lady, collecting all antiques with a particular fondness for her dolls.

Debbie is survived by her loving husband, Dick, her cherished children, Jeff, Todd, and Richie, and her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren who carry her memory in their hearts. Also left to remember her fondly are her brother, Frank Darling, and sister-in-law, Sandra (Tom) Skowronek. She is reunited in spirit with her parents, John and Joan Darling, and her brother, John Jr., as they welcome her with open arms.

As we remember Debbie, we celebrate a life filled with love, laughter, and unconditional devotion to family. Her spirit will forever reside in the cherished memories we hold dear, reminding us of the beautiful legacy she has left behind. She touched our lives in countless ways, and while her presence will be profoundly missed, her love will continue to inspire us all.

Those wishing to donate in Debbie's memory are asked to consider Heartland Hospice or Lean On Me Healthcare Service. Debbie's family thanks the staffs of both, as well as their amazing, kind, loving community at Mayberry Retirement Village.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Toledo Memorial Park (please meet at the Harroun Rd gate by 12:55 pm).

To share a memory of Debbie or to leave a special message for her family, please visit the Guestbook below.