Deborah Karen Martin

Deborah Karen Martin, age 75, of Eaton, Ohio—and formerly of Pikeville, Kentucky, and Kingsport, Tennessee— a beacon of joy and elegance, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at Fort Hamilton Hospital in Hamilton, Ohio following a brief and hard fought battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born April 9, 1949 in Pikeville, Kentucky, to the late Lacey Martin and Ruth Huffman. 

 Debbie was a fierce and devoted woman who dedicated her life to caring and providing for her family. Her unwavering commitment to her family was the cornerstone of her life. She ensured that her children and grandchildren had everything they needed, surrounding them with love and care. She attended countless practices, games, and school functions supporting her children and grandchildren in all their endeavors. Debbie was most proud of her treasured family.

 Throughout her journey, Debbie faced numerous challenges and struggles. Despite these hardships, she remained a pillar of strength and resilience. Debbie's grit and ability to rise above personal adversity and be present for those who needed her was truly remarkable. Debbie often put the needs of others before her own, always available to offer support and comfort. She provided loving end-of-life care for several close relatives and friends, embodying her deep belief in being there for her loved ones. When someone was sick or scared, Debbie was there to listen, offering kindness and comfort. She led a life guided by her Christian faith and values, which was most evident in her belief in agape love, the selfless, unconditional love that she so freely gave those fortunate to know her.

 Debbie shared an especially close bond with her only daughter, Elishia, a relationship that was the envy of many. In 2022, she relocated to Eaton, Ohio, to be closer to Elishia and her grandchildren. Even before becoming neighbors, the two were inseparable and constant companions watching HGTV together and enjoying margaritas with chips and salsa. Debbie would often joke that she needed a five-gallon bucket of margaritas to keep up with their fun times. Their closeness and unwavering bond were a testament to the deep love and connection they shared. 

 She was also known for her impeccable style and love for fashion and always turned heads with her chic outfits and radiant smile. She had a knack for finding the perfect ensemble for any occasion from proms for her daughter to homecoming and special events for her grandchildren. Debbie most loved celebrating others and took tremendous joy in planning baby showers, wedding showers, and birthday celebrations. Any event she planned was always beautiful, filled with thoughtful details and considerations that made everyone feel special.

 In addition to her flair for fashion, Debbie had a talent for creating a beautiful home, tastefully decorated for each holiday. She loved displaying her cherished nutcracker collection at Christmas and took great pride in landscaping her gardens for the summer season, showcasing her favorite flowers, which included ferns, hostas, daffodils, and hydrangeas. It was in her home where Debbie’s devotion as a mother and grandmother shone most brightly. Her kitchen pantry was always stocked with delicious treats most enjoyed by her friends and family such as Capri Suns, Doritos, and Reese Cups. She had a special way of making everyone feel cherished and loved, whether through her warm hugs, thoughtful advice, or simply her presence. Debbie also extended her nurturing spirit to the friends of her children and grandchildren, treating many as though they were her own.

 She was a true socialite extraordinaire, lighting up every room she entered with her perfectly coiffed hair, piercing blue eyes, infectious energy and genuine kindness. She had a jovial laugh and a spirit that was both adventurous and nurturing. She had a charming habit of starting her sentences with "Now, let me tell ya," before sharing her sage advice. She loved to loaf and run the roads with her close-knit group of girlfriends, always on the go with a sense of adventure, and many years ago even had a license plate featuring the cartoon character the Roadrunner. Her legacy of love, laughter, and devotion to her family combined with her elegant style will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

 In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by Leon Huffman, who was married to her mother for many years. She is survived by her daughter, Elishia Reynolds (Scott Moore) of Eaton, Ohio; and her sons, Mark Coleman and Michael Coleman. She was a proud grandmother to Natalia Childers, Sydney Little (Austin), Jaxon Reynolds, Oliver Moore, Georgia Ruth Moore, and Ruby Moore. She was a great grandmother to Nolan, Amethyst, and Scarlett. She leaves behind cherished friends who were like family to her. 

 A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Gard Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Eaton, Ohio is assisting with arrangements. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.