Deborah M. Childs

Deb died… That was how Deborah Childs requested family announce her death to the wider world. However, the people who love her have a few more words to add to her more succinct announcement. Debbie died on May 22, 2026, from complications of lung disease. She was predeceased by her parents, James and Arlene Miller; and her beloved daughter, Molly Mitchell. She is survived by her husband, Jim; sister, Susan (Michael) Bierley; her children, Alissa (David) Sprout and Daniel Childs; and her grandchildren, Duncan and Magnolia. There are numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will all miss her. Debbie grew up in Greece, NY. She was an honor’s student and received a NY Regents scholarship for college. She completed her education at SUNY Oswego and went on to teach middle school English. During a night out with her sister, Sue, at the Varsity Inn, she met her husband, Jim. They would have celebrated 55 years of marriage this July. Debbie left the teaching profession to focus on family, but she never really left teaching behind. She was a girl scout leader for Alissa and Molly’s troops for many years. There are numerous women today who can probably still make buddy burners and string bags for their mess kits, if the need arises. Never one to call attention to her own successes, she was the first to celebrate her kids. You’ll be hard-pressed to find someone she’s met who doesn’t know that Dan is an amazing chef and once cooked for Matthew Broderick. She especially took joy in her role as grandma to Magnolia Childs and Duncan Sprout. Deb-Deb, as she is called by the kids, was a valued caregiver; helping David take care of Duncan when Alissa first returned to work and helping with Magnolia’s before and after school care. Debbie was always ready to babysit, listen to a concert, or cheer at a game. Debbie was always organizing the next camping trip or family vacation. Her family will treasure memories of camping in the Adirondacks, Alleghany, and Acadia. She loved visiting Costa Rica with Jim, Susan, and Michael, and always hoped to return. Family and friends may call at the Leo M. Bean and Sons Funeral Home Saturday, June 6th from 11am – 1pm. No formal services will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Girl Scouts of Western New York and Doctors without Borders.