A DEATH
HAS OCCURRED
In Loving Memory of Deborah E. Christman
November 10, 1950 – July 12, 2025
Deborah E. Christman (nee Shelton), lovingly known as Debbie to her family and friends, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on November 10, 1950, to Floyd Sr. and June (Messner) Shelton, Debbie spent her life exemplifying generosity, faith, and unwavering love for her family and community.
Debbie was preceded in death by her beloved husband and love of her life, Stephen C. Christman. Together they built a life rooted in love and family, raising two children: Todd Christman (Mary) and Stacy Christman-Exline (Rick). Her greatest joy was being “Nana” to her cherished grandchildren: Grant, Kira, Blaire, Derek (Megan), Anthony (Cara), and Sean. Nothing brought her more happiness than watching her grandchildren grow, celebrating their accomplishments, and surrounding them with her undying love.
A proud graduate of McAuley High School, Class of 1968, Debbie carried her dedication and work ethic into her professional life. She successfully managed Christman Land Surveyors and later served as an Executive Assistant at Ameritas and Monster, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike.
Debbie was a devoted member of Saint Peter in Chains Catholic Church in Hamilton. She generously gave her time and talents to the Rosary Altar Society, Gardening Angels, Family Promise, and especially the Caring Closet, where she was a cornerstone volunteer and a key organizer of fundraising events that kept the program thriving. Her commitment to serving others also extended to Relay for Life, where she volunteered for over 15 years, helping raise critical funds for cancer survivors.
Debbie’s family circle was wide and warm. She was a beloved sister to Floyd (Patty) Shelton, Jr., the late Christine Stewart, Linda Nachbauer, the late Wendy Shelton, the late Jeffrey Shelton (Carol), and John (Pam) Shelton. She was a dear aunt to many nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peter in Chains Catholic Church in Hamilton on Saturday, August 2 at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to The Caring Closet, PO Box 684, Hamilton, OH 45012, a cause that Debbie held so dear.
May Debbie rest in eternal peace.
Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM
St. Peter in Chains Catholic Church
“I was so saddened to hear that such a beautiful soul had been taken by such a horrible disease at such an early age. Debbie was the most thoughtful and sweetest lady I know. Amazing memories never die. She will forever be missed. Rest in pease sweet Debbie. With deepest condolences 💔 Betty Rudy”
07/17/2025
“Debbie was a wonderful neighbor and friend. We are deeply saddened and we cannot adequately express our condolences to Stacy, Todd, and her grandchildren. She certainly had her purgatory on earth for the past few months. God rest her soul. We will miss her tremendously.”
07/17/2025
“Todd and Stacey, So sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. Praying for you both. Deepest condolences.”
07/17/2025
“So sad to have lost this beautiful lady. I feel privileged to have known Debbie. Such a kind, sweet soul, beautiful inside and out. Rest in peace, my friend. You’re now with your beloved Steve.”
07/16/2025
“Very Thankful I had the opportunity to get to know Deborah at a Christmas party at Todd and Mary’s home in Indiana. Mary’s and Todds wonderful family gathered together with my family and friends. We had dinner together, beautiful soul. Kind and always something nice to say. So happy I actually got a chance to really get to know her. Beautiful lady!. Heaven is real sweet Deborah!! ENJOY!”
07/16/2025
“So very sad to lose this friend. So many happy memories to hold in my heart. Sending my deepest sympathy. Memory eternal 💔”
07/16/2025
“Dear Stacy and Todd, I can’t find the words to express how deeply sorry I am. I have fond memories of your mom during our high school years. The love she has for the two of you continues on forever, just as your love for her continues on. Love knows no end. Praying many blessings upon you now and always. Also praying God’s peace and comfort – the kind of peace and comfort only He can provide. My deepest condolences, Brooke Coomer”
07/16/2025
Sign the Guest Book