Debra E. Hammond

Share a memory Print obituary

Debra “Deb” E. Hammond, 72, of Lincoln passed away on November 4, 2026. Born August 26, 1954, in Crete, NE to Virgil and Violet (Berry) Vernon.

Deb was the passionate owner of Choices Treatment Center Inc. and a pillar of the National Council on Problem Gambling, recently receiving recognition for her lifetime of dedicated advocacy and support. Known affectionately by her grandchildren as “Crazy Granny Deb,” she was a spark of joy who was always up for unexpected fun and lived life to the absolute fullest. Beyond her vibrant spirit, Deb dedicated her life to the service of others, leaving an undeniable legacy through the countless lives she transformed as a compassionate counselor, trusted friend, and wise mentor. For over 25 years, her presence was also a staple at Husker football games, where she ran the popular hot dog and burger stand, feeding generations of Nebraska fans. Deb had a deep passion for live music and concerts, a love she indulged just last week while dancing and singing along to Chris Stapleton right here in Lincoln.

Family members include her daughter Leslie (Keith) Mann of Lincoln, NE; son TJ (Jenni) Hammond of Peachtree City, GA; grandchildren Lauren and Madison Mann, Aiden, Noah, Trey and Elijah Hammond; brothers Bill of Crete, NE and Don Vernon of Lincoln, NE, sister in-laws Marsha of Pleasant Dale, NE, and Anne of Siera Vista, AZ; numerous nieces and nephews and lifelong best friend Deb Cole of Lincoln, NE. Preceded in death by her parents, brothers James, Eldon, Bob, Fritz and John, and her longtime partner Daryl Blue.

Memorial service: 1:00 pm Monday, November 9, 2026, Roper and Sons South Chapel, 3950 Hohensee Drive.

A celebration of life gathering with family present from 3-5 pm Sunday, November 8, 2026, Roper and Sons South Chapel.

Memorials to the family for future designation.

Share a memory Print obituary

November8

Celebration of Life Gathering

3:00 pm-5:00 pm CST

Roper & Sons South Chapel

3950 Hohensee Drive (40th & Yankee Hill)
Lincoln, NE 68516

(402) 261-5907

November9

Memorial Service

1:00 pm CST

Roper & Sons South Chapel

3950 Hohensee Drive (40th & Yankee Hill)
Lincoln, NE 68516

(402) 261-5907

Share a memory Print obituary

Share a Memory or Condolence

November 6, 2026

Count me as one of the many souls that Deb saved. Her no nonsense but deeply caring nature helped turn my life around and helped me right many wrongs. I will be forever grateful to Deb and her staff. Prayers and condolences to her family.

– Forever indebted

November 6, 2026

For myself and on behalf of the Saturday morning GA group, I extend condolences to you, Deb’s family. She was a special lady and an inspiration to all of us. She will be missed. I expect we will share memories of Deb and her sage advice and counsel for many years.

– Brian R

November 6, 2026

I don’t even know where to begin. Deb was the most compassionate, caring human being that has come into my life. She was there for me in my darkest days and she helped me overcome so much in my life. I always felt a million times better each time I left her office or hanging up on a phone call. Deb always knew what to say or what to do in any situation. I will truly miss her contagious smile and her sense of humor. My condolences to all her family and friends during this difficult time. My god give us strength to get though this.

– Andrew Leseberg

November 5, 2026

What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful lady. So many memories, but the one that keeps coming up in my mind is when Leslie and I ran Deb‘s hotdog stand in downtown Lincoln in front of NBC bank. That summer was so much fun! Love you, Deb, I hope you’re dancing in the sky.!

– Stephanie Siemsen

November 5, 2026

She touched my life in so many ways, and I was so proud to call her a friend. She had a very contagious smile and was always, and I mean always, the optimist. She brought out the best in those around her and was never short of compliments. I left her always feeling better about myself and I hope I did the same for her. My favorite memory was sharing a bowl of oatmeal and strawberries with her while she gave me the grand tour of her Christmas decorations. She was a beacon of light and will be missed by so many of us whose lives she left a permanent imprint upon. I will miss her dearly. God blessed us with one of the good ones.

– Sherry Gatlin

November 5, 2026

Very sad ro hear this news. I am forever grateful to have crossed paths with Deb. She will be missed. Hugs, love, and prayers to her family, friends, clients, and staff. ❤️🙏