Deborah Kay McNeal, age 69, of Covington, passed away on Monday, December 27, 2021, at Upper Valley Medical Center Emergency Room in Troy.  She was born on November 4, 1952, in Piqua to the late John L. and Lucille (Kinsella) Cruse.

Debbie is survived by two children: Elizabeth Dalton of Cincinnati and Tim McNeal of Fairborn; one brother: Dave Cruse of Springboro; three grandchildren: Lucy, Anna and Ray Dalton; and a whole gang of beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and life-long friends.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by five siblings: Mary Helbing, John "Bud" Cruse Jr., James Cruse, Sr., Patricia Drees and Sandra Cruse; and her ex-husband: Tim McNeal Sr., in November of 2021.

Debbie was never particularly excited about school, but was intelligent and curious, an avid reader who educated herself at every opportunity.  Her youth was consumed with her love for horses, and she was an accomplished barrel racer.  She was a free spirit who had a variety of jobs over the years, from waitress to photographer to healthcare provider, and many in between.  Whatever she was doing, she did it with a strong work ethic and made fast friends with all she came into contact with.  She loved her family and friends fiercely, and will be deeply, deeply missed.

Service will be held at 6:00 PM on Tuesday, January 4, 2022, at Baird Funeral Home in Troy.  Family will receive friends from 3:00 – 6:00 PM on Tuesday at the funeral home.  A Celebration of Life will be held in the Summer of '22, date and location TBD.

Memorial contributions may be made to Miami County Animal Shelter, 1110 N. County Road 25A, Troy, OH 45373.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.bairdfuneralhome.com.

Miami County Animal Shelter
1110 North County Road 25A, Troy OH 45373
Tel: 1-937-332-6919