Deborah Heil, 58, of 503 West German St., New Knoxville, OH, died 6:15 p.m. Monday, November 12, 2007 at St.Rita’s Medical Center, Lima, OH, after a brief illness.

She was born May 24, 1949 in Celina, OH, the daughter of John and Wilma (Brodbeck) Heil.  They survive in St.Marys. 

She is also survived by:

¨ Sister, Pam (Fred) Scheer, St.Marys, OH

¨ Sister, Amy (Bill) Lauth, St.Marys, OH

¨ Brother, Bruce Heil, West Chester, OH

¨ Her nieces and nephews:  Andrew (Jen) Scheer, Merritt Island, FL; Melissa (Dustin) Wills, Gahanna, OH; Lori Scheer, Minster, OH; Brian Scheer, Cincinnati, OH; Brooke Lauth and John Lauth, St.Marys, OH 

Deb was preceded in death by three brothers:  Mark, Ted and Steven Heil. 

She was a 1967 graduate of St.Marys Memorial High School and a 1971 graduate of Ohio State University.  She also earned her Master’s Degree from Ohio State University.  Deb was in her 37th year of teaching at New Knoxville School, where she taught third and first grade.  She was a consummate professional and she was known for her dedication to teaching.  Her love for her students and their learning defined Deb as a teacher and as a person.  She sent countless cards to friends and family to show her love and support.  She loved spending time with her nieces and nephews and being a part of their lives.  In her spare time she enjoyed reading. 

She was a member of St.Paul’s United Church of Christ in St.Marys, OH.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, November 16, 2007 at the Miller Funeral Home, 1605 Celina Road, St.Marys, OH, the Very Reverend David A. Williams, officiant.

Burial will follow at Elm Grove Cemetery, St.Marys, OH. An additional celebration of Ms. Heil's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, November 16, 2007 at New Knoxville School, New Knoxville, OH.

Friends may call from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, November 15, 2007 at the Miller Funeral Home, 1605 Celina Road, St.Marys, OH, where memorial contributions may be directed to New Knoxville School.