Debra "Debbie" Lavery Sensibaugh

Debra (Debbie) Lavery Sensibaugh, 68, of Kingsport, Tennessee, passed peacefully after a brief illness into the arms of her Savior on August 22, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on January 15, 1957, Debbie’s life was a beautiful testimony to her deep faith, unwavering love for her family, and her heart for serving others. Debbie was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, faithful sister, and cherished aunt.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. William E. Lavery and Peggy J. Lavery of Blacksburg, VA.

Debbie is survived by her beloved husband of 48 years, David Sensibaugh, with whom she built a life filled with love, strength, and grace. Together, they raised two daughters who were the center of her world: Amanda Cox (married to Dave Cox), with children Nicole and David William; and Ashley Page (married to Adam Page), with children Austin, Alex, and Annalise. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy—she poured her heart into every moment with them, creating a legacy of love they will carry forever.

Debbie is also lovingly remembered by her siblings: K. Michael Lavery, Lori Lavery, and Mary Fisher. She leaves behind 18 nieces and nephews and 12 great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom she loved dearly and encouraged constantly. Her family was her greatest blessing, and she lived each day with them at the forefront of her heart and prayers.

In addition to her role as a wife and mother, Debbie lived out her calling as a Licensed Professional Counselor. She served in both private and public settings, but her most treasured work was with children. Notably, she was the very first school counselor at Miller Perry Elementary School and ended her career at Van Pelt Elementary School, where she poured her heart into supporting and uplifting students and families. Her love for children extended beyond her career—Debbie joyfully gave her time as a Children’s Church Coordinator and a middle school Youth Group Leader, guiding young hearts with patience, compassion, and Christ’s love.

Those who knew Debbie knew her as a woman of deep Christian faith. She lived with grace, served with humility, and loved without condition. Her faith was the foundation of her life, guiding her in every role she held—from counselor and caregiver to mentor and friend. Her kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit reflected the love of Christ in everything she did.

Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Debbie’s life on Saturday, August 30th at Colonial Heights Christian Church in Kingsport, TN. Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 5:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Debbie’s generous heart, the family invites donations to be made to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation — a cause close to her heart: Donate Online - National Alopecia Areata Foundation | NAAF or the Children and Youth Ministries at Colonial Heights Christian Church: Give — Colonial Heights Christian Church, Kingsport.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the compassionate doctors, nurses, and staff of the Intensive Care Unit at Bristol Regional Medical Center and Select Specialty Hospital Tri-Cities. Your kindness, dedication, and tender care in her final days were a true blessing to our family, and we are forever thankful.

While we deeply grieve her passing, we rejoice in knowing that Debbie has left her earthly body behind and is in the arms of Jesus. She is healed, whole and praising His name. Her legacy of faith, love, and family will live on in all of us who were blessed to know her.