Deborah Lee Hartzell

December 20, 1953 - July 16, 2023
Deborah Lee Hartzell

Memorial Gifts & Donations




Deborah Lee (Lugg) Hartzell, passed away suddenly on July 16, 2023, at the age of 69. She was born on December 20, 1953, in Wilkes-Barre, PA, to the late William Lugg, Sr. and Theresa Evans Lugg.

Deborah was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She dedicated her life to her family and was a rock of support for them. Her unwavering love and commitment were evident in everything she did. Deborah adored spending time with her family, especially her five cherished grandchildren. She found joy in their laughter and treasured moments spent together.

In addition to her family, Deborah had many interests that brought her happiness. She loved getting lost in the pages of a good book, exploring new recipes in the kitchen, and enjoying quality time with her friends. Her warm and nurturing nature made her a source of comfort and solace to those around her.

Deborah’s journey in education was one marked by great achievements. She graduated from North Pocono High School in 1971 and went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree from Bloomsburg University in 1975. Later, in 2006, she obtained her Master’s degree in Developmental Education from the University of Scranton. Deborah dedicated her career to teaching and was recognized for her exceptional service to developmental students when she received the Outstanding Service to Developmental Students award in 2013 during her time as an assistant professor at Lackawanna College.

Deborah is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, William Lugg Jr. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for her surviving family and friends. She will be forever missed by her devoted husband of 49 years, Barry Hartzell, her sister Pamela Lugg Hoffmann (Daniel), her sons Joshua Hartzell (Joy) and Matthew Hartzell, and her five adored grandchildren: Conner Tobin Hartzell, Gabriella Marie Hartzell, Colin Stephen Hartzell, Autrey Adam Hartzell, and Cooper Lee Hartzell.

Services to honor and remember Deborah’s life will be held on July 22, 2023, at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation- Leland at the Village Road Chapel location (525 Village Road, Leland, NC 28451). Visitation will begin at 10am, followed by a service at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Deborah’s memory will live on through the lives she touched and the love she shared with those fortunate enough to have known her.

Share memories and condolences by visiting www.wilmingtoncares.com

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation- Village Road Chapel 525 Village Road Leland, NC 28451. 910-383-3511




Purchase Flowers

Tribute Wall

Please feel free to sign the guestbook or share a memory



Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


  • July 22, 2023
    Pamela (Kuchak) Woods says:
    Debbie was a loyal and cherished friend through high school and college. I am sorry to hear of her passing and will always have fond memories of the good times we shared.

  • July 21, 2023
    Dan LaMagna says:
    I will always remember Debbie who was on the hiring committee at Lackawanna College and believed in me about 15 years ago. She was a great colleague and person who advocated for our students and will always be missed. Sending condolences and positive thoughts & prayers to Barry and the entire family.

  • July 20, 2023
    Lee & Gordon Podhyski says:
    Dear Barry, Matt, Josh & Family. Very sad to hear about Debbie. She was always so sweet & I loved when we would get together in the neighborhood. We all have great memories of ur family when You were here in Moscow! You are in our family's thoughts & prayers. Love to All.. God Bless ❤️

  • July 20, 2023
    Stacey Toy says:
    I’m so sorry to hear about your mom, Josh. We shared a lot of great times at your house growing up with Danny and Steiny and more…I’ll always cherish those times and I’m praying for you and your family. Please let me know if I can do anything for you my friend. ❤️❤️

  • July 20, 2023
    Colleen Sterns lit a candle:
    Lit since July 20, 2023 at 7:12:53 PM