Deborah Sue Whitmer

In Loving Memory of Deborah Sue Whitmer (Richey)

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Deborah Sue Whitmer (Richey), Born October 1st 1957 in Indianapolis Indiana & entered the presence of the Lord and Savior on July 8, 2026, at 2:39 a.m. in Tucson Arizona where she resided for over 50 years.

Deborah was a devoted Christian whose life was defined not by material possessions, but by her immeasurable faith, unconditional love, and selfless heart. She had a remarkable way of putting others before herself. If she bought something for herself and someone admired it, she would often insist it was meant to be a gift for them all along. Giving brought her far more joy than receiving ever could.

Throughout her life, Deborah endured many hardships and was often placed in circumstances beyond her control. She was frequently misunderstood, yet she never allowed life's struggles to harden her heart. She never stopped loving, praying for, and believing in every member of her family. She always searched for a way that everyone could find peace and become a winner, even when the odds were impossible.

In her final days, those closest to her witnessed a beautiful transformation. She experienced a childlike happiness unlike anything they had ever seen. Simple moments playing peekaboo or seeing a monkey on tv would fill her with contagious, uncontrollable laughter. Her joy was pure, innocent, and genuine.

As her earthly memories faded, one thing never left her heart: her faith. She could no longer remember her last name or even understand what a last name was. She could no longer comprehend what relationships meant. Yet she knew Jesus. She would still sing "Jesus Loves Me." Love remained at the center of who she was, and she felt it with every part of her being.

Those who were blessed to truly know Deborah witnessed a heart, mind, and soul of extraordinary innocence and purity. If there is one wish her family holds close, it is that everyone could have experienced the remarkable love she carried within her.

Deborah was preceded in death by her parents, Paul & Rosemary Richey, and by her sisters Barbara and Peggy.

She leaves behind her husband David J Whitmer and  loving children: Starr Brown, Theresa Stevens, Daniel Trejo, Andre' Trejo, Jessica Trejo, and Jonathan Trejo; her bonus children, David Welser and Anthony Whitmer; her cherished grandchildren Sabrina, Justin, Oceanea, Taylona, Kitrina, Patrick, Alexis, Emily, Natalee, Ninnikah, James, and Nash, along with bonus grandchildren Benjamin and Bailey. She was also blessed with 10 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought joy to her life.

While our hearts are broken by her absence, we find comfort in knowing she is whole again, rejoicing in the presence of the God she loved so deeply. Her prayers, her gentle spirit, her contagious love, and her unwavering faith has left a permanent imprint on every life she touched.

Though she has left this earthly home, the love she gave will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew her.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord."— Matthew 25:23

Please join us for a Celebration of Life at Noon on August 1st 2026 at Mt. View Christian Church located at 2601 W Oracle Jaynes Station Rd.