Deborah "Debbie" Hemmings, 74, of East Calais, Vermont, died unexpectedly on Friday, July 3rd 2026. A unique and caring soul to all who knew her; she will truly be missed. Debbie was born in Philadelphia to Florence ("Flo") and Harrison ("Happy") Hartman on June 28, 1952. In 1955, Debbie and her family set down roots in East Calais, Vermont. She attended school in Calais and graduated from Lamoille Union High School. Debbie met her husband Douglas Hemmings in 1975, and she and her 2-year-old son Jonathan became a family soon thereafter.

Debbie and Doug started the Rubber Bubbles Balloon Co. in 1978. They toured New England and New York, selling helium balloons for celebrations and music festivals, often dressed as clowns. The concession business eventually evolved into a unique party and costume supplier known as Rubber Bubbles Balloon & Party Supply Store in Barre. After over 30 years as an innovative small business owner and operator, Debbie retired.

In addition to her parents and brother Danny Hartman, she was predeceased by her husband Douglas Hemmings in 2018. Tragically, Debbie lost her only child, Jonathan Hemmings shortly before her own passing in October 2026.

Debbie is survived by her brother Dennis Hartman of California and her grandchildren Matthew and Noah Hemmings of Virginia. She is also survived by her niece Katrina Lawson of Arkansas and her nephews Dylan and Marshall Hartman of Vermont. Debbie also leaves behind many dear lifelong friends including Cynthia Parsons.

Debbie will lay to rest with her loved ones in Fairview Cemetery in East Calais.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association – Vermont Chapter, 2 Wall Street, Manchester, NH 03101.