NEW CASTLE, Pa. — Family and friends are mourning the loss of Debra “Debbie” Lynn Jackson, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, who passed away on July 5, 2026, at AGH Grove City Hospital. She was 66.
Born on December 12, 1959, Debbie was the daughter of John and Shirley (Nicholls) Miller. Throughout her life, she was known for her caring heart, vibrant personality, and unwavering devotion to her family, earning the love and admiration of everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Debbie is survived by her children, Lezley (Sam Ritter) Paglialong, Angela (Zach Kreidler) Paglialong, Nicholas (Amberlynn McConnell) Paglialong, and Gerald (Yvonne) Lane, all of New Castle. She also leaves behind cherished grandchildren Talaya McElroy, Timothy “TJ” McElroy, Gianna (Tyler Savage) Burcham, and Elijah Vitale, along with numerous siblings, nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and lifelong friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved daughter, Gina Paglialong, whose memory remained close to her heart.
For the past several years, Debbie worked at UPMC Jameson Hospital, where she enjoyed serving others and formed meaningful relationships with coworkers and patients alike. Those who knew her remember her as someone with a bold, expressive personality who never hesitated to speak her mind while offering kindness and encouragement to those around her.
Outside of work, Debbie found joy in crocheting while watching crime dramas and talk shows, taking road trips, and making memories with her loved ones. Her favorite holiday classic, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, reflected her belief in embracing those who felt different. She affectionately referred to her family as her “misfit toys,” a testament to her unconditional love and acceptance of everyone.
She will also be deeply missed by her best friend of 60 years, Patty Slater, her cousin Diana Sweigert, and the many people whose lives she touched with her warmth, humor, and generosity.
A Celebration of Life honoring Debbie Lynn Jackson will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at The Moose Club, 29 S. Mercer Street, New Castle, PA 16101. Family and friends will gather to celebrate her life, share cherished memories, and pay tribute to the lasting legacy of love, compassion, and resilience she leaves behind.
Though Debbie’s passing leaves a profound void, her memory will continue to live on through her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her.