Debbie's final curtain call happened suddenly on New Year's Eve, December 31, 2021 at the age of 62. She was born August 30, 1959 in Cleveland, Ohio and was a lifelong member of the New Apostolic Church. Debbie is survived by her siblings, Patricia McElroy, John E. Jr. Holly), Jimmy (Michelle) and Laurrie (Joe) Ehmer and her fur baby, Sly. She was the cherished aunt and great-aunt of Michael, Megan (Dan), Stella, Melody, Kaity, Kristen (Andy), Ben, Zach, Emma, Jesse, Lauren, Josh, Nick, Cooper, Maya, Maggie, Angie (Doug), Jason, Kayleigh, Emma, Ashlynn, Payton, Jessica (Glen), Cash, Kendall, Matt, Andrew, Olivia, Joey and Emma. Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, John E. Sr. and Charlotte (nee Wolff) Sickle; infant nephew, Christian John Sickle; and beloved pets, Simon and Othello. Raised in North Royalton, Ohio, Debbie was active in drama, choir, sports and her faith, while excelling at academics. She graduated Class Salutatorian, NRHS class of 1977. She attended Baldwin Wallace University and received a Bachelor's Degree in Music with a special emphasis in Performing Arts. With her talent, education, and optimism Debbie quickly set out to put her mark on the world. For four decades Debbie devoted herself to the arts. She starred in countless theatre productions, commercials, and print work, as well as singing performances. Debbie is also remembered for her impersonations of a certain 1950's blonde bombshell. Following the typical actress' lifestyle, Debbie also worked several part-time jobs during her acting career as a waitress, bartender, accordionist, singing telegram lady, educator of the arts, receptionist, and even guiding tours on a goat farm in Maui. Debbie had a witty sense of humor and a generous heart. Anyone who met Debbie knew that they had a lifelong friend. Debbie had a special way of making everyone feel loved, she enjoyed gifting thoughtful presents she found for others and sending out many cards. Her greatest enjoyments in life were her many nieces and nephews, gardening, singing, animals, shopping, theatre, and her closest friendships. She will forever be remembered by the countless lives she impacted through her genuine, caring soul and fun-loving personality. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to any charity supporting rescue animals, the performing arts, or mental health. Everyone is encouraged to plant a perennial in their yard in memory of Debbie and think of her each year when it blooms! Debbie's Celebration of Life memorial gathering will be planned at a later date and that date will be shared soon. wwwbuschcares.com 440.842.7800

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

Published by Cleveland.com from Jan. 8 to Jan. 9, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for DEBORAH SICKLE

Sponsored by The Family.

16 Entries

David Munoz

April 20, 2024

Debbie and I were friends at BW and for a few years after graduation we kept in touch but as life or really neglect sets in we drifted apart. I went looking for her only to find she had passed. She was a bright light and we are all less than we could be without her. I am so sorry for her family's loss. Debbie was more than anyone deserved.

Robert Retzler

September 6, 2023

My heart just sunk. They're isn't enough words to describe this beautiful lady. I was only in 9th grade and I think Deb was freshman or sophomore at BW. She was talking to my mother, while I was working out at a gym in Berea Commons. My mom was so impress by her, talking, uplifting, smiling. I had never forgotten & never will forget Deb!! Gone to early. RIP Deb. Some day we will meet again!!

Castle Heating & Air, Inc.

March 24, 2022

With deepest sympathy. We are so sorry for your loss. May she rest in peace.

Carolyn Bryan

March 7, 2022

Debbie was one of the first people I met at BW - we lived on 4th floor of Lang my freshman/her senior year. She was so funny and kind. I was so excited for her performance in Brigadoon that year. One of my funniest memories was walking past a practice room and hearing some rather hideous singing. As she walked out, I was about to make a smart remark. Then I saw the person behind her, who had a less than pleasant singing voice, and I was no longer sure if it was Debbie being funny or the other person singing seriously! She was also my pledge trainer in Mu Phi Epsilon, a job she treated with the lack of seriousness it deserved. A bright light has gone from the world but I will always remember her welcoming nature and her humor.

Raleigh Hill

February 10, 2022

To the family of Debbie sickle . I am sorry for your lost . She was a good friend whom I met at work , so caring and giving . I will always have her in my heart. Gone but not forgotten . Rest In Peace till we meet again . Debbie was a Angel to all who knew her .

Mary Weir & BeneSys family

Planted Trees

Mary Jo (Skorepa) McCarthy

January 10, 2022

My heart goes out to the entire Sickle family. Debbie was always such a kind soul. She took me under her wing high school and talked me into trying out for a play. Although I didn't get the part... I will always remember how much she helped me and what an inspiration she was. My heart is breaking for her family...May the love of friends and family carry you through this difficult time. Rest in eternal peace my friend.

Keith Boedicker

January 10, 2022

Debbie and I were friends at BW. She always had a smile and positive attitude no matter what the situation was. Her personality and kindness will be missed.RIP Deb.

Gerry D. Uffman

January 9, 2022

Rest in Peace Deb. Prayers to the family.

Sharon Meixner

January 9, 2022

The world has lost a creative, caring and wonderful soul. Debbie cared so deeply for her family. They were the world to her. I am so sad that I lost contact with her about three years ago, but had a friendship for over 30 years. She will forever be in my thoughts.

Rick Buzzelli

January 9, 2022

I was absolutely heartbroken when I heard of Debbie´s passing. She was such a kind person. The last time that our paths crossed in 2000 or 2001 at a FirstMerit employee function. I didn´t realize, at first, that it was Debbie hiding behind the Marilyn Monroe get up. What a wonderful surprise that turned out to be. I have been praying all day for her!

Susan Belko

January 9, 2022

Debbie, we spent out early years together at school going thru NR Albion and NRHS. Great class of 1977. We had such fun and I will miss you my friend. I remember seeing you in a commercial and being so happy. Bless you!

Donna Neylon

January 9, 2022

Although I knew Debbie a long time, we didn't see each other but occasionally, but when we did, it felt like two girlfriends catching up. I'm so sorry to Debbie's family & friends that she's gone: I'm still trying to absorb it, myself. Although a striking beauty, Debbie possessed humility, great warmth & incredible courage during her journey here, on Earth. May Peace, Comfort & Eternal Love surround you, in Paradise, now, Debbie.

Donna Neylon

January 9, 2022

I cannot believe Debbie is gone! I just saw her before the Civil pandemic! I met Debbie many years ago & we would bump into each other occasionally. Whenever I saw Debbie, it was as if we just saw each other yesterday. Looking at how gorgeous this woman was, one would be surprised at her humility, warmth & caring nature. I'm going to miss this beautiful, vulnerable, courageous human being who didn't have an easy life. "Keep Coming Back, Debbie"!!

Dr. Joseph Garry

January 9, 2022

Debby was an extraordinary talent... I had the pleasure of directing her as a student at Baldwin Wallace... She had talent, Grace and Great charm. Most of all, she had a joy of living that was very engaging and uplifting.

Diana Riedel Skorepa

January 9, 2022

The North Royalton Alumni Association extends sincere condolences to the family.

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