Debra Stehle

Mrs. Debra Stehle

Mrs. Debra Stehle, 64, of Lehighton, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 26, 2025, in the Lehigh Valley Hospital's Kasych Family Pavilion, Salisbury Township, with her loving family by her side after a hard-fought and courageous 19-year battle with cancer. She is survived by her loving and doting husband, Robert Stehle, with whom she shared 44 happy years of marriage.

Upon graduation from Lehighton Area High School in 1978, Debra began her 47-year career with The Times News & TN Printing. She was a hardworking and devoted employee, even through multiple bouts with cancer. Debra took great pride in her work, but also found time to enjoy the things that she loved most: cooking and baking for family and neighbors, visiting the casino, crocheting, and cheering on the Philadelphia Phillies and the Philadelphia Eagles.

Born in Lehighton on Aug. 23, 1960, Debra was a daughter of the late Kenneth and Lois (Ahner) Schrantz.

She enjoyed a full and energetic house as a child with her Earth-side siblings: Robert Schrantz (husband of Barbara of New Cumberland), Ronald Schrantz (of Pine, Col.), Donald Schrantz (husband of Glenda of Ninevah, N.Y.), Charles Schrantz (husband of Karen of Lehighton), Barry Schrantz (of Slatington), and Brenda Yeakel (of Andreas); as well as those who predeceased her: Larry Schrantz, James Schrantz, Carl Schrantz, Vivian Gatens, Susan Ruch and Dorothy Schrantz.

Debra's greatest accomplishment was her family.

In addition to her husband, she will be deeply missed by her daughters, Angela Stehle (fiancé of Travis Hand) of Lehighton, and Bobbie-Jo Schoener (wife of William) of Jim Thorpe.

Debra was a caring wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend. However, her most joyous role was that of "Mem Mem" to her beloved granddaughters, Keza Moyer, Olive Schoener, and bonus grandchildren Breydon, Ali, Ryan and Emma Hand. We will forever miss Debra's spirit, laughter, strength and love.

Service: Private funeral service at convenience of family. Ovsak Funeral Home, Lehighton, has been entrusted with final arrangements. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Cancer Society or Penn State THON to continue to improve the research, emotional and financial support for adults and children battling cancer.