Debra D. Crabtree

Debra Dale Crabtree, 72, of Westerville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, in her home. Born on June 17, 1953, in Westerville, she remained deeply rooted in the community that shaped her life and where she touched so many others.

A proud graduate of Westerville South High School, Debi dedicated much of her professional life to serving the families of her community. She worked for Westerville City Schools as a bus driver, ensuring the safe passage of countless children over the years. Later in life, she continued her service at the Westerville Senior Center, where her warmth and compassion brought comfort and joy to many.

Debra was a devoted wife to Mark Crabtree for 52 years and a loving mother to Mark and Matt Crabtree. She welcomed their spouses, Jamie Crabtree and Sara Munsell into her heart with open arms. Her greatest joy came from being a grandmother to Ava, Carter, and Bode Crabtree. She cherished every moment spent with them—whether it was shopping trips with Ava, pampering them during bath time visits, or preparing home-cooked meals to send home with love.

Her home was always filled with warmth and tradition. Debi had a passion for decorating and gardening that made every season feel special. Holidays were magical under her care—she celebrated each one with thoughtful gifts and festive cheer that delighted everyone around her. Her generosity knew no bounds; she spoiled her grandchildren not just with presents but with time, attention, and unwavering love.

Debi had an eye for fashion and beauty—always presentable and stylish—and took pride in finding bargains through coupons and senior discounts. She found joy in saving money not just for herself but as another way to give more to those she loved. Her cooking was legendary among family members; she prepared meals in bulk so no one ever went home without a plate of leftovers.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. A firm believer in Christ, Debi carried His light within her through every word and action. She never took for granted the blessings she received and lived each day as an opportunity to reflect God’s love onto others. Her selflessness was evident in everything she did—always putting others before herself without hesitation or complaint.

Debra was preceded in death by her parents Floyd and Audrey Jay, as well as her sister Diana Jay. Their memories lived on through the stories she shared and the values she upheld.

She will be remembered as a woman of deep faith, boundless kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to family. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched—with every meal shared, every holiday celebrated, every garden tended—and most especially in the hearts of those who loved her.

Friends may call from 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, January 17th at Moreland Funeral Home, 55 East Schrock Road, Westerville, OH where memorial service will be held at 3 p.m.

May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her and may her spirit continue to shine brightly through those she loved so dearly.