Deborah “Debbie” Wood Hobin, age 74, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 14th, 2024. She is survived by her devoted husband, Eddie Hobin; her children, Kellie Cosner and Tommy Hobin; her daughter-in-law, Ulrike Decker; and her cherished grandson, Frederick Hobin. She also leaves behind her siblings, John Wood and Margie Fox, and her in-laws, Sherry Wood and John Fox, along with a large extended family of in-laws and cousins.
Born in 1950 in Jacksonville, Florida, to William H. and Thelma H. Wood, Debbie grew up in a close-knit family. After attending Robert E. Lee High School, she pursued early childhood education at the University of South Florida. Her career in teaching began at Cuscaden Day Care Center in Tampa, but her heart drew her back to Jacksonville in 1975 to start her family. A devout and dedicated member of Ortega Methodist Church, she founded the Ortega Methodist Playschool, a testament to her belief in the power of play in early childhood learning.
In 1982, Debbie and her family moved to Ortega Forest, where she was a loving caretaker for neighborhood children, providing them with a safe and nurturing space before and after school. Her contributions to John Stockton Elementary’s PTA helped the school gain national recognition as a model institution. In 1987, the family relocated to Brooksville, Florida, where Debbie continued to pour her heart into raising her children and cultivating a sanctuary in her backyard. Her love of gardening flourished, and she became a Master Gardener, creating a haven of wildlife and vibrant colors that reflected her deep connection to nature.
Debbie’s life was full of adventure and travel, beginning with childhood road trips across the continental United States with her parents and siblings. This love of exploration continued throughout her life, from annual trips to the mountains of North Carolina with family and friends to exciting motorcycle tours with Eddie. She cherished family vacations by the beach, a tradition started in her youth that she lovingly passed down to her children and grandson.
Her joy for life was evident in everything she did—whether laughing with family and friends by the fire, planning trips and cruises, or simply basking in the peace of her backyard. Known affectionately by her family as “Sister Superior,” Debbie was a steady source of calm, guidance, and joy, always bringing warmth and light to those around her.
Her children fondly remember the invaluable life lessons she imparted- teaching them to appreciate life’s blessing, to treat others with fairness and kindness, and to navigate life’s challenges with grace. Her faith, strength, and unwavering love left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
Debbie will be remembered for her radiant smile, infectious laughter, and the deep love she shared with family and friends. Her legacy of kindness, compassion, and joy will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched. Though she will be dearly missed, her spirit and love will remain with us always.
A celebration of life gathering will be held in Jacksonville, FL at the Ortega River Club on Monday, October 28th, from 4pm-6pm. Her interment will take place at the Jacksonville National Cemetery. Donations made to the Dawn Center of Hernando County in her name are appreciated.