Debra Hanna

A wonderful woman from the inside out, Debra Hanna was a radiant light in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She made the most of every moment, never taking a single blessing for granted, and she was always willing to go above and beyond to serve others well. Nothing brought Debra greater joy than spending time with her loved ones, no matter how simple the moments. Her warm and welcoming presence was a comfort to all those around her, and she made sure her friends and family knew just how much they were loved each and every day. Already so dearly missed, Debra will be forever remembered and treasured.

The early 1950s are remembered as some of the most influential years for the United States. The economy was thriving following the end of WWII just a short time before, and the historical baby boom was underway. It was during these exciting years that Joe and Delima (Goulet) Sproder of Detroit, Michigan, were awaiting the arrival of their third child. Originally from Montreal, Canada, Delima had fallen head over heels during the war for Joe, who was an American working as a tool and die maker in Montreal. On January 7, 1950, the couple was overjoyed to welcome their daughter, who they named Debra, into their family.

Growing up, Debra enjoyed a typical childhood of her generation. She was raised in St. Clair Shores and Grosse Pointe alongside her two older sisters. She was a social butterfly and was known by her nickname, Blackie, for her beautiful complexion. Debra attended local schools, including South Lake High School. The deaths of both her father, and her step-father, during Debra’s childhood instilled in her the mantra to live each day to the fullest and to always make sure those closest to you know how much they’re loved.

Following her graduation from high school, Debra then went on to earn her degree from Northwood University, studying English Literature. It was during Debra’s time in college that she met Tim Hanna, the man who would forever hold the key to her heart. Some would say it was fate that brought them together. Tim needed a date for a football game, and he went to the dorms to find one. Debra answered the door, and he was immediately drawn to her beautiful smile. The rest was history. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Debra and Tim were married in March of 1972.

There was nothing Debra cherished more deeply in life than her family. Over the years, she and Tim welcomed their three children, Bradley, Wesley, and Rochelle, into their hearts and home. Debra thrived in her role as a mother, and her kids were her pride and joy. She instilled in them the importance of looking for the positive in every situation and always seeing the best in others, principles she lived by. Debra was also an excellent homemaker and loved decorating every house the family lived in, making each one feel like home. She was able to help raise her beloved nieces as well, spending time with them whenever she could. Later in life, Debra was thrilled to become a grandmother to her many grandchildren. She adored her grandkids and doted on them endlessly. Known affectionately as “Mommyma,” Debra loved taking the grandchildren out for a hot dog or ice cream. She often had them over for sleepovers and would plan scavenger hunts or activities for them. Debra always considered herself blessed to be surrounded by so many loved ones.

Always happiest when spending time with her friends and family, Debra was devoted to pouring her heart and soul into those around her. She enjoyed cooking for her family and was known for her Middle Eastern Sandwiches and amazing spaghetti sauce. Debra was a wonderful host, and everyone was welcome in her home. She even wrote a book on hosting, Potpourri of Parties, with a friend. Once their kids were older, Debra and Tim enjoyed travelling around the world together, but they also found joy in the simple moments like drinking a glass of wine at home or having a deep conversation. They looked forward to going to their winter home in Florida. Debra was the kind of person that anyone could talk to, and no one was a stranger for long. She was an amazing listener and was always looking for a way to make someone’s day better.

When looking back on the overflowing life and legacy of Debra Hanna, it is easy to see both her unwavering strength and her unconditional love for her family. Nothing kept her down for long, and she was a shining example of compassion and selflessness. A dedicated wife, aunt, mother, and grandmother, Debra always made sure to hold her loved ones close. Her genuine interest in people drew others to her, and she possessed an insatiable zest for life that could be felt by all those around her. Although she will be deeply missed, Debra leaves behind a priceless mosaic of memories that her loved ones will forever keep close to their hearts.

Debra Hanna of Portage, age 75, died on August 24, 2025. Debra was born January 7, 1950 in Detroit to Joe and Delima (Goulet) Sproder. Surviving are her husband, Tim; children: Bradley (Courtenay) Hanna, Wesley Hanna, and Rochelle (Joel) Thompson; grandchildren: Treyton, Samantha, Della, Gavin, and Tessa; siblings: Sheila Schebil and Lana Ashley; nieces and nephews: Linnette, Kimberly, Michelle, Kevin, Donielle, and Kelly.

Join us at a Life Story Service on Friday, September 5, at 4 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900. A reception will follow in the Life Story center where food, drinks, and stories will be shared. Celebrate Debra’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on her dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com.

Debra found great joy and fulfillment in the idea of paying it forward; whether paying for the car behind her at McDonald’s, sending food baskets to those in need, or randomly helping a person or family down on their luck. Debra’s small acts of kindness have left a big and lasting impact. In her honor, please consider your own way of paying it forward to others.