Debra Jayne Tipton, age 69, of Portland, Indiana, passed away on October 26, 2026. She was born on April 12, 1957 in Portland, Indiana to Robert and Betty Peden. She grew up in Dunkirk, Indiana; Lake Mary, Florida; and Portland. Deb was a 1975 graduate of Portland High School and was the heart and soul of the class of 75 helping to plan every rowdy class reunion.

Deb is survived by her husband of almost 52 years, Douglas Tipton, their children Spencer and Jamie Tipton, Ossian, IN; and Abby and Tom Homan, Portland and their grandchildren Jacob Kellogg (Maisey Keller), Gabriel Homan, and Maci Homan, all of Portland. She is also survived by her sister, Nancy (P.D.) Marshall of Hartford City, Indiana and in-laws Scott Tipton (Gail) of Portland, Lori Tipton of Morley, Mi, Teressa Burgess of Cincinnati, OH, and many nieces and nephews. She was the "second mom" or "favorite aunt" to countless friends of her children over the years.

Deb was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Bob and Betty Peden; her brother, Steve Peden; her granddaughter, Makayla Tipton; and her nephews Bill Peden and Luke Boughman. She grieved fiercely for each of these people and carried their loss in her heart, loving them always and keeping their memories close.

Deb's career as a nurse knew no time clock and did not end when she officially retired. She worked as a nurse for Kaup Pharmacy, State of the Heart Hospice, Crown Pointe Assisted Living, Vormohr Medical Center, Dr. Tatoyan's office, Community Care West, and Jay County Hospital. She previously worked at John May Shoes. However, she spent her life caring for others and providing in-home care, even when that was not a part of her job.

Deb believed in giving back to the community and supporting local businesses and organizations. She was a member of Tri Kappa and ran the Alzheimer's support group. She was formerly a board member for the Girls Club and the Church of the Brethren in Portland. She was passionate about the Jay County Cancer Society, the Jay County Fair, the Jay County Public Library, Camp Mac and Daytona Beach.

Deb was a natural friend who was always thinking of others. She was a fierce fan and defender of her children and grandchildren and all of their interests. She accepted people just as she found them and advocated for every person with no judgment. She was a listening ear, a counselor, and a friend to all. She had a way of making people feel like they were the most important person in the room.

Deb also loved live music, especially at the 615, small venues like Hudson Park, Fort Recovery and Winchester and the Jay County Fair and danced whenever possible. Her hobbies included photography, reading, travel and helping people before they even asked. She especially cherished the "Fab 5," whose regular "book club meetings" were known to involve a lot more friendship, laughter and shenanigans than actual book discussion.

Deb lived life with an open heart, a generous spirit, and a love for people that never seemed to run out. She was always ready to lend a hand, offer advice, cheer someone on or head out to enjoy some live music and dancing. She leaves behind a family who adored her, friends who

treasured her, and a community made better by her presence. There will never be another Deb, and she will be missed more than words can say.

A celebration of Life service will be held on Monday November 2nd at 7:00 PM in the Baird-Freeman Funeral Home with Pastor Kevin McClung presiding. Visitation will be on Monday from 2:00 - 7:00 PM. Memorials can be made to Jay County Civic Theatre or Jay County High School Show Choir.

Online condolences at www.bairdfreeman.com