Debra Ann "Debbie" Vaughn Pasko of Throop,PA passed away Tuesday morning at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore after a recent bout with cancer.  Debbie would have celebrated her 70th birthday on February 10th.  Born in Scranton, PA, Debbie was the daughter of the late Doris Henningsen Vaughn, Scranton.  She was also preceded in death by and a brother, John Vaughn, and sister Phyllis Grambo.

Debbie and her husband, Bernard "Bernie" Joseph Pasko, celebrated their 41st wedding anniversary this past October.  Together, they built a strong and loving family, creating many cherished memories along the way.  The most recent, being their family trip to Graceland this past June.  Debbie was definitely one of Elvis' biggest fans!  Debbie's son Bernard "Bern" Joseph Pasko Jr. (Throop) was the light of her life.

Debbie graduated from Scranton Technical High School in 1973 and went on to complete training to become a Certified Nurses Aid.  She worked many years as a CNA at the former Maloney Home in the Marywood section of Scranton.  Debbie also worked at the former Scranton Bake Shop and later on in the bakery at the Price Chopper in Dunmore.  Her most recent employment was in the Membership Services Department at AAA North Penn in Scranton.  This was her absolute favorite place of employment and she would tell you that every day.  She was the smile that greeted you at the front desk or on the phone each day for 12 years.

Debbie was an active member of The Scranton Pocono Girl Scout Council and volunteered many summers at various day camps and assisted with the Outreach programs held during the year.  She always had an infectious smile and can-do-attitude-willing to help anyone, any place, anytime!

Debbie loved and cherished time spent with her family and friends.  A perfect evening for Debbie was watching movies and eating popcorn with her husband and son.  She was an avid fan of General Hospital.  Debbie overcame many obstacles in her life including two kidney transplants (most recently one year ago).  She never let her illnesses slow her down.  She was so proud of her husband and son, who took excellent care of her over the years.  She could not have found a more loving husband or have a more devoted son.  Debbie's legacy of love, compassion and strength will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched.  Although she may be physically gone, her spirit will continue to inspire and provide comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Debbie was a devoted Christian and long- time member of the former St. John's Church in Throop and then later Blessed Sacrament Parish in Throop.

Also surviving are brothers George Vaughn (Lucia) Jacksonville, Florida, Ronnie Vaughn, Scranton; and sister Shirley Vaughn Nidoh, Scranton; brothers-in-law Paul Pasko (Jeannie), Dunmore; Peter Pasko, Allentown, along with several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.  Debbie's cousin , Ellen Townsend Dunleavy (Jerry), Scranton was like a sister to her and they shared many amazing memories together.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made   to Debbie's favorite charity, St. Jude Children's Hospital at st.jude.org

All those attending mass please go directly to church.