Debra Robinett Sparks

Debra Robinett Sparks, 73, of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, surrounded by her loving family after a brave and courageous journey. She was a devoted wife, a cherished mother, and a beloved sister, aunt, cousin, and friend whose warmth, humor, and strength touched everyone who knew her.

Debra was born on August 18, 1952, in Arlington, Virginia, to Walter and Dorothy Robinett. She shared 49 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, John Sparks, building a life rooted in love, partnership, and unwavering devotion. Together, they began their journey in Greenbelt, Maryland, later settling in Mt. Airy, Maryland, where they raised their family before retiring to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

She was a proud and loving mother to her son, Justin Sparks, who was the light of her life. Her love for Justin was constant, steadfast, and deeply felt—she supported him in every chapter of life with encouragement, wisdom, and an open heart.

Debra spent most of her career working in healthcare as an administrative assistant. To her coworkers, she was far more than a colleague—she was family. She was known for her kindness, dependability, and her natural ability to care for others, always ready with a listening ear or a word of support.

In addition to her devoted husband and beloved son, Debra is survived by her sister, Karen (John) Fink; brother-in-law, Dusty Sparks; sister-in-law, Margie Sparks; and her eight nieces and nephews: Michele (Clay), Jennifer (Mike), Heather (Bret), Sherry (Shinork), Courtney, Sean, Taylor (Sarah), and Sheila (Jermaine). She was also a loving great-aunt to fourteen great-nieces and nephews: Alyssa, McKenzie, CJ, Zack, Trinity, Ryan, Corey, Adam, Ava, Ainsley, Julian, Nolan, Alex, and Delilah. She was deeply loved and cherished by all.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Dorothy Robinett; her sister, Carlyne Rasberry; her niece, Kari Noel Fink; and her brother-in-law, Sparky.

Debra was an avid reader, a devoted Redskins and Orioles fan, and someone who found her greatest joy in spending time with family. She especially loved visiting with the younger generations, keeping up with their lives, and celebrating their accomplishments. Her idea of a perfect Sunday was simple and sweet: going to the movies with John and eating buttered popcorn side by side.

To her nieces and nephews, Debra (Debbie) was a shining star in the family—never missing a milestone or special event, no matter the distance or circumstances. She had a rare gift for making people feel welcome, loved, heard, and understood. In her presence, one could always expect comfort, witty humor, wise advice, and most of all, genuine laughter. Her compassion was unconditional, her spirit generous, and her love enduring.

Debra was a two-time breast cancer survivor before facing her final battle with extraordinary courage and grace. Even in the face of illness, she remained resilient, humorous, and deeply focused on the people she loved most. Her strength, dignity, and warmth will forever be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Debra’s memory to make a contribution to her favorite charity:

Susan B. Komen By Website: http://www.komen.org By Phone: 1-877-GO-KOMEN

A celebration of Debra’s life will be held at Circle D Farm in Woodbine, MD on Saturday, February 28th at 1 p.m.