Deborah A. Barnhart, formerly of Attica and residing in Terre Haute passed away in Union Hospital on Wednesday, December 9, 2020.

Deb was born in Attica, Indiana on September 13, 1951 and was the daughter of the late Keith Edwin and Elizabeth Ann (Rogers) Barnhart and sister of the late Steve Barnhart.

Deb was a 1969 graduate of Attica High School.  She attended the Indiana State University School of Nursing for her undergraduate degree and completed her Masters in Nursing Degree at Indiana University.  Deb started her career as a clinical instructor in August of 1977 and continued in this role until deciding to complete an advanced degree in Nursing.  After achieving the Master of Science in Nursing, Deb joined ISU as an Assistant Professor in the 1982-83 academic year.  She was promoted to Associate Professor in August of 2000 and retired in December of 2016.

Deb's nursing education focus was Mental Health and in that capacity taught ISU nursing students the meaning of caring for patients and others.  She taught fundamentals of nursing for many years and finished her career working with pre-nursing students.  Students loved her caring nature and appreciated her support throughout a difficult major.  She excelled as an academic advisor and was innovative in creating the most effective learning environment for students in order to enhance their potential for success.  She was instrumental in the establishment of the McKee Center for Nursing which continues to support nursing students' success.  Generations of nurses at Indiana State University have been influenced by Deb and her legacy will live on through them.

Deb enjoyed traveling, being with friends, the outdoors, and of course her cats.  If you had the privilege of crossing her path, you have her smile and those great hugs to remember forever.

Deb leaves behind her "adopted" Japanese son,  Shinbo Sugiura; sister-in-law Donna Barnhart; close friends Suzy Fletcher, Rita Flak and many more friends, neighbors and colleagues.

Deb's friends would like to sincerely thank everyone for the cards, calls, memorials and prayers during this difficult time.

Join us in celebrating a life full of "Living, Loving and Laughing".  Friends are encouraged to share a "Deb" story during the service.  Celebration is scheduled with DeBaun Funeral Home, 85 E Springhill Drive, Terre Haute, IN on March 20th with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. and service to follow at 11:00 a.m.