Debra Ann "Debbie" Kelty

Debra Ann "Debbie" Kelty obituary

Debra Ann "Debbie" Kelty

Debra Kelty Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Highlands Family-Owned Funeral Home - Louisville on Jan. 7, 2026.
Debra Ann Kelty, age of 71 passed away on January 5th, surrounded by her children, leaving behind a world that feels a little less bright without her in it.

Born on January 22, 1954, she was funny, generous, and endlessly loving - the kind of person who could walk into a room and instantly make it warmer. She had a gift for bringing people together, Her circle was wide, and her friendships were deep.

A nurse by profession and by nature, Debbie spent her life caring for others with compassion, humor, and heart for 38 years with Norton Healthcare. Helping people wasn't just her job - it was who she was. She gave freely of herself, always putting others first and never expecting anything in return.

Above all, she was the best mom - fiercely loving, and endlessly proud. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy, and her love for them knew no limits. She was also a devoted wife who loved her husband of 34 years deeply, missing him every day since he has been gone, sharing a bond built on love, laughter, and partnership.

She lived fully - always connecting, always making memories. Her laughter was contagious, her presence unforgettable, and her love leaves a lasting mark on everyone who knew her.

Debbie is survived by her cherished children Jordan Kelty, Gina Dawson, Dustin Kelty and Jennifer Fitzgerald., seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Debbie is preceded in death by her husband Gene Kelty, sister Sherri Folsom, brother Don Carricato, and step son Jesse Kelty. She will be remembered for her big heart, her humor, and the light she brought into every life she touched.

A celebration of Debbie's life will be held on Saturday January 10th from 2-5 at Highlands Funeral Home, where stories, laughter, and love will be shared - just as she would have wanted.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor her by being kind, loving loudly, and showing up for one another - the way she always did. Though gone from our sight, she will never leave our hearts.

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

Sign Debra Kelty's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

January 10, 2026

Judy Lynn Johnson posted to the memorial.

January 9, 2026

Robin Jeanette posted to the memorial.

January 8, 2026

Radha K Kartha posted to the memorial.

4 Entries

Judy Lynn Johnson

January 10, 2026

1976. I started at Norton Hospital. There were two people being oriented that week. It was myself and Debbie rest in peace.

Memorial Tree

Robin Jeanette

Sent Sympathy Gifts including Trees

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Radha K Kartha

Sent Sympathy Gifts including Trees

Gary Miller

January 8, 2026

Debbie & her family lived behind us as kids & she was one of the first "neighborhood" children I played with as a young child. I am saddened that I did not know her in her adult lives, but I we will be praying for her family and friends......Gary Miller

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Highlands Family-Owned Funeral Home - Louisville

3331 Taylorsville Rd., Louisville, KY 40205

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Sign Debra Kelty's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

January 10, 2026

Judy Lynn Johnson posted to the memorial.

January 9, 2026

Robin Jeanette posted to the memorial.

January 8, 2026

Radha K Kartha posted to the memorial.