Debra Lee (Kirkendall) Zimmerman

Heaven has welcomed its newest angel.
 Debra L. Zimmerman, affectionately known as Deb, Kirk, Mrs. Z., Mom, and Mimi, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her beloved husband and four children at the age of 69.

Born in Marysville, Ohio in 1955 to Ben R. and Janet (Billheimer) Kirkendall, Deb was the oldest of four children. She spent her early years on the Kirkendall Family Farm in Marysville, OH (now Retreat 21), where she was nurtured by her parents and grandparents. A proud 1973 graduate of Dublin High School, Deb was a majorette, crowned Homecoming Queen in 1972, and went on to attend Ohio Northern University, where she was active in Delta Zeta sorority and named Homecoming Queen in 1976. She earned her teaching degree in 1977 and began her career as a first-grade teacher.

While at ONU, Deb met law student Bill Zimmerman. The two married in 1978, beginning a lifelong partnership of over 47 years that blessed them with four children: William Jr. (Tricia), Kathryn Miller (James), Matthew (Kara), and Bradley (Christina). Together they built their life in Sidney, where Deb poured her heart into raising her family and strengthening her community.

Deb’s impact extended well beyond her home. She gave generously of her time and talents to many local organizations, including Child Guidance, New Neighbors, Book Club, Charity League, and the Gateway Arts Council. She also devoted countless hours to the arts, especially at Holy Angels School and Lehman Catholic High School, where she became beloved for leading the make-up crew for musicals and cheering on students from behind the scenes.

Education was Deb’s calling. She earned her master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Dayton and founded The Acorn Academy preschool in her home. For 22 years, “Mrs. Z.” lovingly nurtured hundreds of children, helping them take their first steps in learning and discover the joy of school.

Her greatest joy, however, was family. Known as “Mimi” to her 13 grandchildren, Deb cherished every moment spent with Leah, Zoe, Audrey, Ellee, Drew, Alex, Lila, Jude, Charlie, Amelia, George, Clara, and Noah. She was their biggest cheerleader, just as she was for her own children.

Deb’s life was a gift of service, creativity, and love. Her courageous battle with colon cancer, begun in 2023, was met with strength and grace that inspired everyone around her. She is survived by Bill, her husband of 47 years, their four children, Bill, Kate, Matt, and Brad, her 13 grandchildren, brother Ben (Joni), and sister Laura Cianciolo (John). She was preceded in death by her parents, Janet and Ben, and brother, Jeffery.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Sidney, OH, on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 10:30 AM, with a private burial to follow. The family will receive relatives, friends, and guests for a Celebration of Deb’s Life at the Shelby Oaks Club from 2–5 p.m. with special remarks given by the family at 4:00 PM. Arrangements are in the care of Cromes-Edwards Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lehman Catholic High School in Deb’s honor.