Deborah L. Sass, 50, of Sharon passed away at 9:56 p.m. Monday, January 21, 2019, in her residence.

Deborah was born November 5, 1968, in Sharon, a daughter of Nicholas and Frances (Machuga) Sass.

She was a lifelong area resident and a graduate of West Side School in Sharon.

Deb was employed in the workshop of MCAR, Hermitage, and attended its adult day programs.

She was a member of St. Michael's Byzantine Catholic Church, Hermitage, and often attended Mass at St. Justin's Church in Pittsburgh.  Deb participated in Special Olympics for 16 years as a race walker and was also a Global Messenger spokeswoman for the organization.

A real jokester, she loved running around with her dog, Eagle, and watching television with her late brother-in-law, Saverio.  She also enjoyed dancing, swimming, camping, fishing and going to the mountains with her family.  Deb could also do sign language and speak Italian.

She is survived by her mother, Fran Sass; two sisters, Vickie A. D'Avanzo, of Pittsburgh, and Linda M. Fuller and her husband Jeff, of Sharon; and a brother, Gary N. Sass and his wife Amy, also of Sharon.

Deborah was preceded in death by her father, Nick Sass; and a brother-in-law, Saverio D'Avanzo.

Deb was "pure goodness" and will be greatly missed by her family and all who loved her.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Stellar Support Service, 620 W. 5th Ave., McKeesport, PA 15132.

Calling hours will be from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, January 24, 2019 and from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 25, 2019, in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon.

Divine Liturgy will be 11 a.m. Friday, January 25, 2019, in St. Michael's Byzantine Catholic Church, 2230 Highland Rd., Hermitage, with Rev. Kevin E. Marks, pastor, as celebrant.

Interment: St. Michael's Cemetery, Hermitage.