Deborah Ann Lee, 80, most recently of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away on February 07, 2023, after a long battle with dementia.

Deborah was born on April 6, 1942, to Dr. Kenworthy M. Hoge Jr. and Elizabeth Ann Jackson in Ohio. She grew up in East Lansing with her mother, stepfather, and younger sister, Becky. After graduating from East Lansing High School in 1960 and marrying her high school sweetheart, Eric Ziegler, she and Eric had four children. They are Elizabeth (Jack, deceased) Jesse, Amy (Joe) Wilson, John (Susan) Ziegler, and Polly (Eric) Simon. Deborah and Eric divorced but remained friends until his death. Deborah was also married a second time (and later divorced). Deborah excelled at many things. She loved her family, music, singing, horses, animals, and the outdoors. She loved Jesus and wanted her children and grandchildren to know him, too. Deborah could accomplish anything she set her mind to and was a huge asset throughout her career at East Lansing Public Schools as a paraprofessional, where she helped many children and young people. Deborah was baptized later at New Hope Church in Haslett, where she loved singing and would bring her grandchildren to services before her illness. We will miss her greatly. Her parents predeceased Deborah, as well as her stepfather, William "Bill" Birch, her son-in-law, Jack Jesse,  her grandson, Chase Jesse, and her niece, Molly Hollinger Kildee . She is survived by her four children, 12 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren, and by her dear sister, Rebecca (Dan) Brady, and nephew John (Kelly) Hollinger.

Donations can be made to the charity of your choice, in Deborah's name, that supports children. A private service is being planned.

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