Debra Ann Parks, 65 of Alpena, Michigan passed away peacefully at MediLodge of Alpena on October 21, 2026. She was born to the late John and Jeanne (Cunningham) Parks on June 7, 1961 in Pontiac, Michigan. Deb was a woman of many talents, a lifelong educator, and above all, someone who cherished her family. Holding a master’s degree in education, she dedicated herself to teaching, sharing her knowledge and passion for learning with students in both Arizona and Atlanta where she worked as a substitute teacher. She also served as a juvenile probation officer in Atlanta, where she worked with young people navigating difficult circumstances. An avid sports fan, she held a special place in her heart for Michigan football. Her own athletic accomplishments began long before her years as a devoted fan, as she played professional softball in her younger years and later shared her love of the game as a softball coach from 1990 to 1995. Outside of the classroom and ballfield, she enjoyed reading, playing backgammon, cooking, and camping on Drummond Island. Some of her most treasured memories were made outdoors, where she loved taking her nieces and nephews camping and creating lasting memories and experiences they would carry with them throughout their lives. Known for giving special nicknames to both her siblings and her nieces and nephews, she had a way of making those closest to her feel uniquely connected to her.

Family was at the center of everything Deb did. She was a loving and devoted sister who made time for the people she loved in ways both big and small. She faithfully attended her sister Laura’s sporting events through junior high and college and even chaperoned her senior trip. She cheered on the sidelines at her brother, Jay’s football games and took pictures of him for his 7-on-7. She never missed a sporting event for her siblings or her nieces and nephews and was proud of each of them. She also created a special tradition with her sister Lisa, taking her to the drive-in movies every Friday night and sneaking her in for a little extra fun. These simple moments reflected her playful spirit and the deep bond she shared with her sisters. Deb will be remembered for her love of family, her dedication to education and sports, and the many special moments she gave to the people who were fortunate enough to share in her life.

Deb is remembered by her siblings, John (Tina) Parks, Steve (Kathy) Parks, Lisa (David) Herbert, Jay (Pam) Parks, Laura (Jason) Dubey; nieces and nephews, Jake Parks, Luke (Mariah) Parks, Steven Pryde, Tara (Nick) Palmer, John Parks, Jessica Englehart, Kenneth (Ashley) Englehart, Joshua (Amanda) Herbert, Jordan (Megan) Herbert, Jessica (James) Stanton, Jay (Savannah) Parks, Danielle (Josh) Himic, Alyssa (Corey) Parks, Avery Dubey; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Jeanne Parks; maternal grandparents, Sydney (Eva) Cunningham; and paternal grandparents, Wanda Deevey and Jay Parks.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2026 at 3:00 PM at Avery Township Cemetery, Atlanta where Deb will be laid to rest. Arrangements were entrusted to Green Funeral Homes.