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Debra McLean Obituary

Debra K. McLean PORTSMOUTH - Debra K. "Sam" McLean, 69, of the 4700 block of Race St., died Feb. 26, 2009. Born in Durham, N.C., the daughter of Fletcher Cross and Mary Cross Neave. Sam grew up in Cradock section of Portsmouth, graduating from Cradock High School. She retired from the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority after many years of service. A son, Douglas Jones, daughter-in-law Rhonda, grandsons, Justin and Morgan and a niece, Ann Byrne survive Sam. A sister, Sarah Patton, preceded her in death. Her good friend, Alma White and longtime companion, Joseph Lafurno, will fondly remember her. The family would like to thank her caregiver with Heartland Hospice, Lisa Naperala and Bayside Health Care for their compassionate care. A memorial service will be conducted at 1 p.m. Thursday in Snellings Funeral Home, Churchland Chapel, with the Rev. E.L. Trueblood officiating. Interment will be private. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters, 600 Children's Way, Norfolk, VA, 23507.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Mar. 3, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
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Ruby Snow

March 9, 2009

What can I say about Sam......She was a dear friend.. My thoughts go go to her family & may they find comfort in the fact that she is now in GOD's hands. Ruby P. Snow

Pat Doughty

March 5, 2009

Knowing Sam at NRHA was having a friend. We would always find time to chat, have a laugh and over the years, learn about family and pets. I send my warmest condolences to her family. I know they will miss her.

Sheila Joyner

March 5, 2009

Sending my sincere sympathy to the family of Sam McLean. Sam and I worked together for years at NRHA and I really enjoyed her humor. She will be truly missed. May God Bless and Keep You in Your Time of Sorrow.

Linda Bass

March 4, 2009

I will never forget Sam and all the fun times we had at WAVY-TV. She kept us all entertained! My deepest sympathies to Doug and family. May God give you peace in your time of sorrow. Linda Jones Bass

Osia Evans - Human Resources

March 3, 2009

Sam will surely be missed by many of us here at NRHA I will certainly keep the family in my prayers during this time of bereavement.

Judy Haller

March 3, 2009

My deepest sympathy to Sam's family and dear friends. I worked with Sam for many years at NRHA. Our love for our poodles and the stories we shared was our bond. Sam was very special to me. Celebrating her life......well lived.

NRHA Employees Charity Fund

March 3, 2009

Our deepest and most heart-felt sympathies are extended to the family of Sam McLean. A donation will be made in her name to CHKD.

Reba Leuthold

March 3, 2009

Bruce and I worked for many years with Sam at NRHA and shared many stories about children and grandbabies. Our deepest sympathy to family and friends for the loss of your loved one. Reba and Bruce Leuthold

Suzanne Johnson

March 3, 2009

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Bill Hickman

March 3, 2009

My deepest sympathy for Sam's family. I worked with Sam for 30 years. She will be missed. A wonderful friend and colleague.

Glayds Freeman

March 3, 2009

My heart is so heavy now. Sam was my co-worker and we talked and laughed many days together. My prayers and throughts are with her family; I'm so sorry for your loss. Sam was such fun and very down to earth. I feel like I've lost a good friend. God bless you all.

patricia Murphy

March 3, 2009

My deepest sympathy to the family

Brenda Warren

March 3, 2009

Sam and I worked together at NRHA.. She will be sorely missed...

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