Deborah's obituary
Deborah Denise Williams-Starks, 64, was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and spent the past 32 years of her life in the Metro Atlanta area. She transitioned peacefully at Northside Hospital on March 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving children, mother, brother Michael, and other family and friends who were by her side.
Deborah was the beloved daughter of Marveen Jeter and Fred Matthews. Her family was her heart, and she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones. A woman of deep faith, Deborah was an active and dedicated member of Peace Baptist Church, where she found strength and community.
Deborah loved spending time with family and friends, whether that meant traveling, cooking her famous collard greens, or watching her favorite Lifetime movies. She was known for her infectious laughter, her sense of humor, and her ability to light up any room she walked into. Deborah also had a deep appreciation for gospel music as well as neo-soul, and she shared her love for these genres with everyone around her. She truly had a gift for making others feel special and loved.
After graduating from high school, Deborah went on to receive her Associate of Arts degree in the medical field, where she devoted herself to her clients and coworkers at Another Chance, LLC. Her career reflected her compassionate nature, and she was always ready to lend a hand to those in need.
Deborah is survived by her loving children: Khalil Williams, Alisha McCoy, Michelle Bray, Kya Williams, and stepdaughter Brittni Starks. She is also survived by her mother, Marveen Jeter, her special Aunt, Tanya Matthews, her brothers Michael Morrison, Darryl Morrison, Stephan Morrison, and her Godmother Dorothy Wilson. Deborah was amicably separated from her husband, Leslie Starks at the time of her passing. Additionally, she was blessed with a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Fred Matthews, and her grandmother, Lillie B. Williams (aka Doll Baby).
In her own words, Deborah once shared:
"Life is about the love you give and the joy you spread. Always love with your whole heart, because that’s what keeps us all together. Even when we’re apart, our love remains, and that’s what lasts forever."
Deborah’s love, wisdom, and radiant spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who knew her. Her memory will forever live in our hearts.