Deborah Darlene Beams

With deep sorrow and heartfelt love, we announce the passing of Deborah Darlene Beams, who departed this life peacefully on July 1, 2025, at the age of 77. She was born in Celina, Ohio, on June 7, 1948, to her late parents, Luke and Norma Jean (Guyer) Smalley. Debbie lived a life defined by grace, compassion, strength, and a deep love for her family.

Debbie was the beloved wife of Ronald M. Beams for 57 years, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Together, they built a home centered on faith, family, and kindness—values that Debbie carried with her in everything she did.

As a mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Debbie was a constant source of warmth and wisdom. She had a remarkable gift for home remodeling and decorating, and for making others feel seen and cared for. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Ronald Beams; her children: T.J. (Dan) Underhill of Indian Land, SC; Traci Beams of Powell, Ohio; Tricia (Jess) Helmlinger of Delaware, Ohio; and John (Ashley) Beams of Hilliard, Ohio. She had eight cherished grandchildren: Tyson, Luke, Ella, Jack, Parker, Amelia, Liam, and a special remembrance of her grandson Jake Helmlinger, who preceded her in death. She also loved her many granddogs: Zeus, Zoey, Zella, Stella, Flossie Dotti, Hershey, Barkley, Jack, and Doc.

She is also survived by her siblings: Sandy Zeller of Celina, Ohio; Cindy Acheson of St. Petersburg, FL; and Tammy Blackman of Johnston, South Carolina; brothers-in-law Jeff Acheson and Don Zeller; her aunt Phyllis Mendenhall of Defiance, Ohio; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Luke and Norma Jean (Guyer) Smalley; her sister, Teresa Hoffman; her brother, Dickie Smalley; and her grandson, Jake Helmlinger.

Debbie was a 1966 graduate of Celina High School, where she was voted Queen of the Sweetheart Dance her senior year. She was also 1st Runner-Up in the Celina Lake Festival in 1966. She married in 1968 and devoted her life to her husband and four children.

Deborah will be remembered for her quiet strength, soft-spoken yet powerful spirit, and deep compassion for her children and grandchildren. Whether offering comforting words, preparing a favorite meal, or simply being present, she gave of herself in both big and small ways. Her life was a beautiful testament to love, faith, and family.

A celebration of Deborah’s life will be held at a later date. Details will be shared with family and friends once arrangements are made.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Debbie’s honor to www.OhioHealth.com, supporting Neuroscience of Neurological and Neurosurgical Care. Your gift will help treat neurological conditions through comprehensive brain, spine, and stroke care.