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Obituary for Debra Manteghi

Debra Clay Manteghi Debra Clay Manteghi, 65, of Akron, Ohio, known by many as the Angel of Akron, peacefully passed into God''s loving embrace May 5, 2017. She was born in Ashland, Ky. on June 6, 1951. She graduated from the University of Akron with her M.S. in Family and Consumer Science in 2003. Debra lived fiercely. She found her calling in life through advocacy by tirelessly working to give voice to the voiceless. She pioneered Project RISE (Realizing Individual Strength through Education); a federally-funded program whose mission is to help children experiencing homelessness. Project RISE continues to be the district''s most impactful program that proactively addresses this critical issue. Debra also empowered students to become community leaders through teaching family development and poverty at the University of Akron. Debra lived passionately. She was a genuine presence to all those around her, especially her family and close friends who she prioritized her time with above all else. Debra traveled the world, trekking solo across the Sahara Desert, and was inspired by artists and poets while she lived in San Francisco. Later in life she traveled with her beloved son and their golden retriever, Ember, to New Zealand and enjoyed walks in Central Park while they lived in New York City. Debra''s legacy will be carried by her son, Amir Manteghi and his partner Monica Band; her two sisters, Sherry Fogarty and Jennifer Clay Naader; her brother-in-law, Edward Fogarty; her nieces, Jamie Naader, Katie Miller, and Julyan Fogarty; and her nephew, Patrick Fogarty. Debra was preceded in death by her parents, Edward Clay Jr. and Polly Clay. Friends may call at Bacher Funeral Home, 3326 Manchester Rd. on Wednesday, May 10, 2017 from 4 to 7 p.m. A funeral service will be held Thursday, May 11, 2017 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 50 N. Prospect in Akron at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior; Deacon Marla Wood Kay officiating. Interment at Chestnut Hill Memorial Park. Funeral home and church maps, directions, and the Manteghi Family Condolence Book are available at the funeral home website. Bacher-Portage Lakes 330-644-0024 BacherFuneralHome.com P