Deborah A. "Deb" (Hilbish) Smith, 55, of Lumberton, N.J., passed away peacefully Thursday, July 2, 2020, after a battle with cancer.

Deb was born May 23, 1965, in Sunbury, Pa. to Dan and Judy Hilbish. She married Steven Smith in August 1986.

Deb was a registered nurse and worked in a number of different positions throughout her career. Deb enjoyed a variety of outdoor activities. She was an excellent water skier. Deb hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and to the tops of Mount Washington and Sub Dome in Yosemite National Park. Just two years ago, she braved heli-skiing at Whistler in British Columbia, Canada. Deb and Steven kayaked around the Statue of Liberty and almost got arrested for trying to land on Liberty Island. Spending long afternoons on the beach at Avalon, playing games and having "refreshments" out of Solo cups were common summertime fun activities. Deb enjoyed going to concerts. Tom Petty and the Eagles were her favorites.

Deb had a passion for animals, especially dogs. She enjoyed her many charitable works. Whether it was sheltering rescue dogs or driving elderly cancer patients to their appointments, she found much joy in helping others. Her love and compassion for others were felt by all.

Deb's greatest love was her family. She would organize events so that her husband, children, grandchildren, parents, siblings, uncle, cousins and in-laws could all join together and spend time with each other. Although Deb was not a sports fan, she loved going to watch her sons play ice hockey and other sports. Deb was so proud of each one of her sons and the men they have grown to be. After all of the years surrounded by boys and sports, Deb was happy to welcome two great daughters-in-law to the family. The birth of her twin grandchildren just over a year ago brought such joy to her life. Deb had many close friends. Each of her loyal friends provided many cherished memories.

Deb is survived by her loving husband Steven; parents, Dan and Judy Hilbish of Northumberland, Pa.; children, Aaron Smith (Melissa) of Mt. Laurel, NJ, Ryan Smith (Ashley) of Lumberton, NJ and Kyle Smith of Lumberton, NJ; grandchildren, Cooper and Cameron Smith of Mt. Laurel, NJ; sister, Cathy (Mike) Bogovich of Chicago, Ill.; brother, Brad Hilbish of Camp Hill, Pa.; uncle, Joe Hilbish "Sol" of Northumberland; numerous cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews, and her devoted dog, Jackson.

A visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday July 6, at Perinchief Chapels, 438 High St., Mount Holly, NJ. Due to COVID restrictions, the funeral to be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday July 7, at Sacred Heart Church, 260 High St., Mount Holly, NJ, will be limited to close family and friends.

Sympathies, memories and pictures can all be shared on the website https://www.perinchief.com/obituaries/Deborah-Smith-43/#!/Obituary