The story of Deborah “Debbie” Diggs’ life is one written in love — love for her family, her friends, and her community. She died peacefully at home after her long journey with Alzheimer’s disease on August 9, at the age of 75. Her love and legacy will live on, far greater than the devastating illness she endured.

Deborah Ann Diggs was born to parents Stephen D. Miller and Elois F. Miller on June 22, 1950, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She was the only daughter and middle child of 4 brothers. The Miller family moved to St. Louis, MO in 1963 where Debbie attended St. Mary Magdalen Catholic School through 8th grade and graduated from Webster Groves High School in 1968. After visiting her cousin in Southern California, she returned, telling her friends and family that 1973 would be her last winter in the Midwest. True to her word, this brave young woman packed up and moved to California in 1974, where she eventually met her husband, John Diggs, on May 14, that same year in the San Fernando Valley. They were married on May 14th, 1977 in St. Louis and together went on to have two children.

Debbie was a fiercely devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, whose greatest joy was nurturing her family. In her home, there was always warmth, laughter, and a place for so many loved ones and friends at the table. She loved spending her free time spoiling her grandchildren and was just as involved in their school and activities as she was for her son and daughter. It was very common for children to gravitate towards her caring energy and beautiful smile.

Her impact reached far beyond her family. Having a career in education allowed her to support her children and the Natomas community. She started at American Lakes Elementary as a classroom aide and then became the computer teacher. She retired as the first registrar at Natomas High School in 2012.

Debbie remained an involved parent at every step of her children’s education and encouraged other parents to participate in the PTA and school events. She gave selflessly as a parent, school volunteer, Girl Scout leader, and a friend. She provided a welcoming space for students and her actions showed she had their best interest at heart. Her positive presence and representation as a Black mother devoted to her community, impacted an entire generation, especially for students of color, back when Sacramento was still a cowtown.

She is survived by her husband of 48 years, John, son, Jefferey, daughter Jovona, stepson, John John, son-in-law, Jelani, honorary daughter-in-law, Clarissa, grandchildren Jaelene, Javon, and Jaliyah, and her brothers Stephen, Gregory, Kevin, and David Miller.

Though Alzheimer’s marked her final years, it never defined her life. Nor will it erase her spirit and love that lives on in the memories she created, the family she nurtured, and the lives she brightened.

A Remembrance gathering in her honor will be held on September 27, 2025 from 2-4 pm at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Sacramento Auditorium located at 2425 Sierra Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95825. We would gladly embrace a mini reunion of the American Lakes Elementary and Natomas High School, students and staff to join our friends and family in gathering to reminisce and celebrate Debbie’s remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a fund to place memorial plaques at American Lakes Elementary and Natomas High School.  Donations can be made at: https://everloved.com/life-of…