Deborah Ann Gustafson, age 62, of Orlando, Florida, passed away peacefully in Rockledge, Florida, on August 18, 2026, following a short and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Debbie was born in Mildenhall, England, on January 25, 1964, to Judy Gustafson and Colonel Jarl Gustafson. As the eldest of five children, she was a loving and dedicated daughter, sister, and friend whose compassion and strength left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She shared a lifelong bond with her siblings: Scott Gustafson, Heather Gustafson (Theobald), Mark Gustafson, and Jarl Gustafson.

Debbie built a remarkable career in partnership marketing spanning some of the world's most recognized organizations. She began her professional journey with Delta Air Lines and went on to hold leadership roles with Pepsi, Coca-Cola, General Mills, Disney, and Orlando Health. Throughout her career, she was respected not only for her professional accomplishments but also for the genuine relationships she cultivated along the way.

In addition to her many professional achievements, Debbie held a special place in her heart for her years with Disney. She truly believed in the magic Disney brought to families and visitors from around the world. In her free time, she could often be found visiting the parks with her nephews, friends, and visiting loved ones, delighting in sharing the wonder and excitement that her hometown had to offer. Whether it was a favorite attraction, a special celebration, or simply watching others' experience joy, Debbie loved creating memories for those around her.

An avid traveler, Debbie embraced life with curiosity and adventure, exploring destinations across the globe and leaving a lasting impression wherever she went. Those who knew her best remember her as fiercely loyal, selfless, optimistic, and a bright light in every room she entered. She had a magnetic personality that drew people in and made them want to stay. Debbie never met a stranger and was a friend to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her warm spirit, infectious smile, heartfelt hugs, and unwavering positivity brought comfort and joy to countless lives.

She loved playing mahjong with her family and friends, visiting and working at craft fairs representing Orlando Health and enjoying the sun and nature on her back porch.

Debbie was preceded in death by her father, Colonel Jarl Gustafson, her paternal grandparents, Jarl and Mildred Gustafson, her maternal grandparents, Ted and Dorothy Mueller, and her beloved nephew, Leigh Avery Tucker.

She is survived by her mother, Judy Gustafson, her siblings, Scott Gustafson, Heather Theobald (Gustafson), Mark Gustafson and Jarl Gustafson. She also leaves behind a treasured circle of in-laws, nephews, aunts, uncle, cousins, and friends whose lives were forever enriched by her kindness, generosity, and friendship.

While our hearts are broken by her loss, we find comfort in knowing that Debbie's legacy lives on through the love she shared, the lives she touched, and the memories she created. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

There will be a celebration of her amazing life on Saturday, October 10, 2026, between 3 PM – 6 PM at 3755 South Tropical Trail, Merritt Island, FL, 32952.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Debbie's memory to a pancreatic cancer research organization of your choice.

"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near—still loved, still missed, and forever dear."