Deborah J. McGahagan

AUSTINTOWN - Deborah (Debbie) J. McGahagan, 69, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2024, at St. Mary's Alzheimer’s Center, with her family gathered around her.

She was born on December 14, 1954, in Youngstown, Ohio. 

A 1973 graduate of Rayen High School, Debbie further pursued her passion for nursing at Choffin, where she laid the foundation of a remarkable career that would span decades.

Debbie was a dedicated and compassionate nurse, serving at Austintown schools from 2000 to 2013 and working as a Licensed Practical Nurse in nursing homes throughout the area.

Debbie was deeply involved in her faith community at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, where she participated in numerous ministries including serving as a lector, CCD teacher, Eucharistic minister, and member of the parish council, church choir and women’s renewal. Her role as a leader of prayer and volunteering at the food pantry was significant, showcasing her commitment to helping those in need.

Outside of her cherished family and work, Debbie was an avid fan of the Cleveland Guardians and Notre Dame football, and she found great pleasure in watching the games. She loved bowling and word search puzzles. Some of her fondest childhood memories were those spent with her Aunt Julie, Uncle Bob, and her grandparents. Her love for the sun and beach was palpable, with Myrtle Beach holding a special place in her heart as a beloved family vacation spot.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Thomas J. McGahagan, whom she married on January 17, 1976; daughters, Tara Marek, of Austintown and Christina (Jonathan) Koontz, of Evansville, IN; sons, Thomas W. (April) McGahagan, of Canfield and Brian (Heather) McGahagan, of Austintown; grandchildren, Robby, Emma, Abigail, and Gabriel Marek, Hannah and Dakota Koontz, Ryann and Thomas J. McGahagan, Connor, Nathan and Keegan McGahagan; brother, George (Mary) Kashmar, of Chicago, IL; and sister Penny (Jim) Carvin of Hernando, FL.

Calling hours, followed by a recitation of the rosary will be held on Thursday, October 10, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, 4303 Mahoning Ave. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 11, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel. Condolences may be sent to www.higgins-reardon.com.