Debra Kay Brooman's Obituary
Debra Kay Brooman (née Leonard) passed away peacefully on September 21, 2023 at home in Bradenton, Florida with her family and friends at her side. She died from complications arising from Huntington’s Disease. She was 63 years young.
She was kind, generous and full of love. Her radiant smile lit up every room and photo she was in, and her laugh was contagious. She never forgot a birthday or to check in on those she loved. She was quick to lend a helping hand whenever needed.
Debbie was born in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1960 and grew up in various cities across the US as she was part of a Navy family. She settled in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, graduated from Reynoldsburg High School, attended classes at The Ohio State University, then began a career as a commercial insurance underwriter.
She married her previous husband Stephen in Columbus, Ohio where they raised two children - Matt and Whitney - until Stephen passed away suddenly in 1996. Later she married her current husband Andrew in Dublin, Ohio and relocated to Bradenton, Florida in 2001.
A proud mother and grandmother, Debbie valued spending every moment possible with her family, hosting countless birthday parties and holiday gatherings. Her greatest joy was watching her two children and five grandchildren grow up and succeed.
She loved figure skating, ice dancing and ballroom dancing with husband Andrew. She loved to dress up and compete in events across the country, winning many medals. Her passion for dance continued throughout her life; her favorite dance was a sultry tango in her bright red sequined dress.
In 2008 Debbie was diagnosed with Huntington’s Disease but fought bravely, never letting it defeat her. She lived life to its fullest up until the very end. Debbie is a role model for how we should all appreciate and enjoy life and not waste a moment. It is fitting that one of her favorite songs was The Show Must Go On by Queen.
Debbie was preceded in death by her parents Al and Dottie; brother Jeff; and late husband Stephen. She is survived by her husband Andrew; children Matt and Whitney and son-in-law Jeremy; grandchildren Antonio, Angel, Emily, Jonah and Hannah; siblings Marty, Carole and Larry; adoptive mother Billie; her “skating dad” Jim; and many great friends.
Debbie touched many lives. Her sweet spirit will be missed by all, but we know she is dancing in Heaven. A Celebration of Life will be held later this year.
Huntington’s disease is an inherited and ultimately fatal brain disorder that affects control of movement, thought, and behavior. It is passed down in families from generation to generation. Currently there is no cure. For more information go to https://www.help4hd.org/ and https://hdsa.org/.
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