Deborah Eads Greene

Jul 30, 1958 -

Jul 15, 2022

Deborah Eads Greene, 63, died on July 15, 2022 after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer.

Deb was an extraordinary athlete, adventurer, educator, youth expedition leader, advocate for wild places in Alaska and around the world. Deb epitomized living thoughtfully with kindness, zest, passion and grace. Deb brought out the best in all lucky enough to accompany her on epic ski, kayak, mountaineering, hiking or bike trips. Deb's signature smile was infectious and intoxicating. Deb was born Towson, Md., earned an M.A. at University of Colorado, Boulder, where she met husband Ben Greene. Together, Deb and Ben kayaked 1500-plus wild miles of Alaska coastline, climbed many peaks, traversed entire spine of Italian Dolomites. Deb ascended Denali from both sides and was the first American woman to attempt new route on Manaslu, the world's eighth highest mountain in Nepal.

Deb is survived by husband, Ben; sisters, Carol Schexnayder and Pam Vecella; nieces, Kelci Stein and Emily Jamison; nephew, Frank Vecella; and many friends who will miss that irascible redhead so so so much! Deb was preceded in death by parents, Robert and Jeanne Eads.

As a STEM educator for 40 years, Deb earned State, National and International awards, coached Nordic skiing and led many Science Olympiad teams to State podium finishes. While teaching in Barrow, Alaska, Deb brilliantly pulled off what was undoubtedly first ever complete dissection of a 5foot bowhead whale fetus in a middle school classroom! When not skiing, climbing or kayaking, Deb was a prolific quilter and loved playing her cello.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to local hospice and/or nonprofit wilderness protection entities.