Debra L. Ely

Debra L. “Debbie” Ely, 67, of Washington, died Friday, April 14, 2023, in UPMC-Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh. She was born November 15, 1955, in Washington, a daughter of the late Denman Osborn “DO” Hancher and Marjorie Louise Walker Hancher. Debbie graduated from McGuffey High School. Prior to retirement, she worked as a cashier at Interstate Foodland. Debbie had a green thumb and enjoyed flower gardening. She also enjoyed her annual trips to Florida with her close friends, and crafting. Most of all, she loved and adored her grandchildren and spending time with them. Surviving are three children, Amber Bentz (Chad) of Wheeling, West Virginia, Jace Ely (Meghan) of Mt. Lebanon, and Drew Ely (Shaylynn) of Washington; a brother, Joe Hancher (Diana) of Chickamauga, Georgia; seven grandchildren, Isaac Bentz, Rosalee Bentz, Elsie Ely, Bridget Ely, Jude Ely, Logan Ingersoll, and Aralynn Ely; sister-in-law, Judi Sprowls of Claysville; nieces and nephews, Linda Arent (Ralph) of Washington, Lisa Dutton (Jeff) of Claysville, Jennifer Hancher Hale of Georgia, Doug Moore, Jeff Moore, and Bill Moore, all of the state of California. Several other beloved nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. Deceased are siblings, Betty Moore (Bill), Ralph Sprowls (Betty) and Lloyd Sprowls; nephews, David Sprowls, Chris Hancher, and Bobby Sprowls; and the father of her children and former husband, John Ely. Friends will be received from 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 p.m., the time of service, on Tuesday, April 18th, in William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 2403 Sidney Street, Ste 205, Pittsburgh, PA 15203.