Debra B. Leese

Debra B. Leese (Deb, age 71) passed away peacefully on August 22nd, surrounded by members of her loving family. She was predeceased by her beloved parents, Donald A. and Marjorie A. Brinkworth and brother Arthur (Bing) Brinkworth.

Deb was the loving wife of Arden R. Leese with whom she shared 44 years of wedded bliss, residing primarily in Lititz, PA. Art and Deb met on a blind date in August 1978, and it was love at first sight. Together they shared a love of birding and gardening; NHRA Drag Racing; bowling; and enjoyed dining out and traveling with family and friends. Art predeceased Deb, passing away in October of 2023.

Deb served as the Principal for Buchanan Elementary School after starting her career as a Special Education Teacher. Deb loved children and was passionate about the education and welfare of students in the Lancaster Area School District. She fought tirelessly on their behalf, and for their teachers.

Deb is survived by sisters Christine (Pittman), Donna (Cullinan), and Louise (Snyder). She is also much loved by brothers-in-law Mark Pittman and Michael Snyder, and sister-in-law Sally Brinkworth.

While Deb and Art did not have any children of their own, they had the mutual love of eleven nieces and nephews and their spouses. Deb's adoring nieces and nephews include Sarah Kropp, Meghan D'Hurieux, Sean and Scott Cullinan; Erin Snyder-Jones, Melanie Ellixson, and Kevin Snyder; Christina Bruch and Daniel Pittman; Lindsey and Andrew Brinkworth. She is also survived by nineteen grandnieces and nephews.

Deb was diagnosed with early on-set dementia in her 50's and fought a long, challenging battle against the disease. She was filled with gratitude for the help and support provided during her last years by her extended family, especially Sarah, Tom, and Erin.

Deb's family offers thanks and tremendous gratitude to The Hickman Friends Senior Community of West Chester; Coastal Health Connections, Serenity Hospice and to the many staff and caregivers for their compassion and heartfelt care of Deb in her final years.

Memorial services will be private. The family suggests contributions in Deb's memory might be made to any school classroom or donorschoose.org or adoptaclassroom.org.