Debra "Debbie" McGowan (nee Prochko), age 68, of Cincinnati, Ohio, died peacefully in her home, on Thursday, August 20, 2020.
She was born Nov. 8, 1951, in Ashtabula, Ohio, the daughter of the late Michael and Frances (nee Swearman) Prochko, Sr. Devoted mother of her beloved son, John (Emily) McGowan. Dear sister of Timothy J. Prochko and late Michael "Mick" Prochko Jr. Loving sister-in-law to Kay Prochko.
Debbie graduated from Jefferson High School and received her degree from Fairmont State College, WV, with a Bachelor of Arts in Education. She continued her education and received specialized certifications through Kent State University.
Debbie was a dedicated teacher for more than 40 years. She taught Special Education in Ashtabula until 1997 when she left to live her dream of teaching in the "Big City." She moved to Cincinnati, OH in 1998 and began a remarkable career at multiple schools including SCPA, Whittier, St. Joseph and West High. Even in retirement her love for youth brought her back to teaching in one capacity or another.
A proud home owner in Springdale, Ohio she enjoyed her gardening, home projects and decorating. Debbie loved spending time with her friends and neighbors and spoiling her dogs Oscar and Precious. She enjoyed chatting everyone up from gossip, which she called "Poop and Scoop," to life events and even loved a good debate over politics.
Friends may greet the family at Vorhis & Ryan Funeral Home, 11365 Springfield Pk., Springdale, OH 45246 on Friday, August 28, 2020 from 11am until time of service at 1pm.
Additional visitation will be held at Fleming-Billman Funeral Home, 49 W Jefferson St., Jefferson, OH 44047 on Monday, August 31, 2020 from 10am until time of service at 11am.
Burial will take place in Oakdale Cemetery, Jefferson, OH.
Funeral service at Vorhis & Ryan, may also be viewed via livestream at https://www.facebook.com/VorhisandRyanFuneralHomes
Friday, August 28, 2020
11:00am - 1:00 pm (Eastern time)
Vorhis & Ryan Funeral Homes
Friday, August 28, 2020
Starts at 1:00 pm (Eastern time)
Vorhis & Ryan Funeral Homes
Monday, August 31, 2020
10:00 - 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Fleming-Billman Funeral Home
Monday, August 31, 2020
Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Fleming-Billman Funeral Home
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