Debra E. (Lee) Doherty

Debra E. Doherty (née Lee), 68, died at home in Wilmington, Delaware surrounded by her loving family on Monday, January 12, 2026.

Debra worked for many years in childcare, specializing in the care of infants. She took her role seriously and was proud of her work, finding purpose in providing stability and attention during a child’s earliest stages of life. Her strength, resilience, and strong will shaped both her professional life and her personal relationships. She truly valued the lasting friendships she maintained with her co-workers over the years.

Outside of work, Debra enjoyed going to the mall, dining out at restaurants, and keeping up with entertainment news and celebrity gossip. She loved reading, movies, music, and television, and took pleasure in makeup and personal style. She also adored spending time with her beloved husband. These everyday interests brought her comfort and enjoyment.

Debra also loved socializing with many of her favorite DART Paratransit drivers and fellow passengers. The family would also like to acknowledge the amazing care Debra received while on hospice from AccentCare nurse Rhadesia and nurse aid Dawn.

Debra is survived by her beloved husband, William “Bill” Doherty; her daughter, Kristyn Clarke, and son-in-law, Stephen; stepdaughter Hannah Doherty; and her sister, Carolyn Samluk. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert E. Lee and Cathryn E. Lee.

Debra will be remembered as a mother, a devoted wife and a caring friend. We will always carry your memory in our hearts. This isn't a goodbye forever, just an 'until we meet again'.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Pike Creek on Friday, January 23 from 9:30 – 10:30AM.  A Catholic funeral service will begin at 10:30AM, immediately followed by interment at All Saints Cemetery.

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