Deborah Hitz Sparling, 74, of Little Silver, passed away peacefully Feb. 15, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. Deb was born Nov. 12, 1951, and raised in Fair Haven. She was the daughter of Henry and Barbara Hitz.
Deb was a graduate of Douglass College of Rutgers University and began her career teaching art in her home community, where she found deep fulfillment in sharing her gift for creating beauty in all she did. Alongside her love of teaching, she nurtured a lifelong passion for dance.
Above all, Deb cherished her role as wife and mother. She found her greatest joy in building a life with her husband, Bob, and raising her children, Abbey and John.
She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Robert Sparling; her children, Abbey Pena and John Sparling; her beloved grandchildren, Robby and Juliet Pena; and her siblings, Bob Hitz and Judy Durkin. She was predeceased by her parents and her sister, Cheryl Kinsley.
Deb was known for her deep empathy and compassion, her unwavering loyalty to family and friends, and her big, beautiful laugh that filled every room. She expressed her love through service to those around her, tirelessly attentive to the needs of others. Her devotion extended to her two golden retrievers, Molly and Maggie, who brought her endless comfort and joy.
Her love will be forever felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Her life was a testament to the fact that, in the end, all you need is love.
The article originally appeared in the March 5 – 11, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
