Deborah Stevenson, advocate for children
It is with heavy hearts and sadness we announce the passing of our mother Deborah Stevenson of Dagsbboro Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2020. Deborah or “Debbie” and most known as “Mom” to everyone, had been battling health issues for many years and has passed to a brighter place.
Deborah Lockwood was born in Philadelphia, Pa., to John Lockwood and Etta Lockwood of Dagsboro and Chincoteague Va., Aug. 13, 1942.
Debbie was married to Charles J. Stevenson of Oak Orchard Nov. 17, 1962. They were married 44 years before Charles J. passed in 2006.
Debbie worked at Stockley Center and National Cash Register for many years as a secretary and in administration. Her last 20 or so years were with The Children’s Bureau in Milford where she became a counselor and advocate for troubled and abandoned children. This is where her passion materialized and she became “Mom” to over a hundred foster children. Her house was always open to advocate for children and remained open to everyone until the time of her death.
Her passions included shopping, baking, cooking, boating, her grandchildren and making people feel welcome any time. For years Debbie had a kennel and also was a breeder of poodles and peek-a-poos.
She is survived by her oldest son, John Stevenson and Kristi Stevenson of Ingleside, Texas; her daughter Kimberly Stevenson, formerly of Girdwood, Ala.; and her youngest son, Eric Stevenson of Laurel. She also leaves behind six grandchildren: Nessa Henley and Cody Stevenson, Maximus, Sigrid and Miina Adams, and Savannah Stevenson.
Debbie was also “Mom” to Hillary and Patrick Ternahan from Camden, and her three children Nolan, Allanah and Isabella.
She is also survived by Cathy Smith from Georgetown as well as Tina and Zachary Thornton from Millsboro.
Debbie is survived by her identical twin sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and Dan Shellhammer of West Chester Pa., as well as her younger sister Wanda and her brother-in-law Steve Lorentz of Lincoln.
“Mom” to hundreds and loved by all, you are greatly missed and always will hold special places in many of our hearts. Finally rest Debbie; you are with our Dad Jay and we will cherish and miss you.
Future memorial service for Debbie is being scheduled for Christmas holidays with friends and family. For additional details please email Kimberly at Akgstevenson@gmail.com.
Arrangements by Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro.
Electronic condolences via www.watsonfh.com
