Deborah F. Gillaugh

Deborah F. Gillaugh, born January 25, 1966, passed away on October 17, 2026.

Deborah will be remembered as a warm, outgoing woman who never knew a stranger. She brought people together with ease and made others feel welcome wherever she was. Her home was often a gathering place, as she loved to host parties and invite everyone over, not only for holidays but throughout the year. She put time, care, and love into her relationships, and the lasting impressions she made remained with people across every season of her life. That enduring gift was evident even recently, as friends from her kindergarten class came to visit her.

She graduated from Valley View High School as a member of the Class of ’84 and studied photography at Montgomery County Joint Vocational School. Photography remained one of her great loves, reflecting the way she noticed beauty, memory, and meaning in the world around her. She worked for Ready Technology in accounting, where she applied her dedication and steady skills in her professional life.

Deborah had a deep love for the beach, especially Siesta Keys, and she loved to travel. She had been working toward a goal of visiting all of the National Parks, embracing the beauty and wonder of each place along the way. She also had a strong passion for history and research. As a member of the Miamisburg Historical Society, she devoted herself to historical research and used those talents to find lost relatives and trace her genealogy all the way back to the Revolutionary War.

She also loved her dogs very much, and the companionship they brought was a meaningful part of her life. Her faithful companions, Rogue, Marina, and King Arthur, were dearly loved and held a special place in her heart.

Deborah is survived by her husband, Jay Gillaugh, of 25 years, whose life was deeply intertwined with hers through a long and loving marriage. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Myra Gillaugh; aunt, Iris, a myriad of family and friends, and her beloved faithful companions, Rogue, Marina, and King Arthur, who shared in the daily joys of her life and home.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Roger Eagle and Bernice Eagle, as well as her father-in-law, James Gillaugh Sr.

Deborah’s life was marked by generosity, curiosity, hospitality, and a genuine love for people. She leaves behind cherished memories of laughter, friendship, shared stories, open doors, and a heart that made room for everyone. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Friends and family are welcome to gather from 5:30pm to 6:30pm on Friday, October 23, 2026 at Newcome Funeral Home, Kettering, Chapel 3940 Kettering Blvd. A Celebration of Deborah's Life will begin at 6:30pm.

Donations in Deborah's memory may made to the Miamisburg Historical Society.

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