Debra G. Paisley

Debra Graham Paisley, affectionately known as “Debo” and “Deb”, 70, of Kent, Ohio, died on May 22, 2026 after living life very much her own way.

Born February 3, 1956, Deb was a proud Kent girl through and through. A graduate of Kent State High/Theodore Roosevelt High School Class of ‘74, she spent time at both Kent State University, and Ohio University,before doing what many only dream about - wandering around the United States in search of adventure, stories, and probably a good happy hour.

Eventually, Kent called her home again in 1977, where she began working as a reporter for the Record Courier alongside the legendary Roger DiPaolo. After a few colorful years tending bar at various local establishments and unofficially serving as mayor of wherever she happened to be sitting, Deb moved into the travel world at Kent Travel, helping others see the globe she loved so much herself. She later found her professional home at Schneller, where she worked as an HR manager until retirement.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, Chuck and Beverly Graham; her siblings, Doug, Jeff, and Bege Graham; and her husband of 34 years, Ralph Paisley.

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Sandy Graham; her niece, Katie Graham Phillips; and her good friend, Barb Keener; along with countless friends, former coworkers, and Kent locals who all have a “Debo story” to tell.

True to form, Deb left everyone with one final message:

“Thanks for being my friends and love to all. Off to see my family. Woo hoo!”

Cremation services have been entrusted to Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory. No public services are planned.

Deb’s family and friends would like to extend their extremely heartfelt thanks to Sally White and the good humans at Hospice of The Western Reserve in Medina for taking such wonderful care of Deb. Memorial Contributions in Deb’s honor may be made to the Hospice of The Western Reserve Foundation, 17876 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44110.

In Deb‘s honor, raise a glass, travel somewhere interesting, hug your family and friends, and don’t forget to appreciate your hometown and the people in it.

Services in care of Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 West Main St., Kent, OH 44240.