Debra Chenette Hickmon, affectionately known as "Deb," was born on October 4, 1964, in Philadelphia, PA, to Joe Louis Motley and Sylvia Queen Crawley. As the eldest of three siblings, she shared a special bond with her two younger brothers.

Debra was introduced to the truth at a young age by her mother, who began studying the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses when Debra was just 2 ½ years old. Family worship and participation in the ministry helped Debra grow in her love for Jehovah. In middle school, she set the goal to be baptized after high school, and on January 21, 1984, she fulfilled that goal.

Debra was zealous in her service to Jehovah, setting spiritual goals and diligently working toward them. Her mother recalled a memorable moment when a Circuit Overseer encouraged her to fill out an application to be a regular pioneer with the date noted and circled for when she planned to start. She took the advice to heart, completing the application, hanging it on her mirror and starting the very day she wrote- September 1, 1986. A commitment she continued until her passing.

After graduating from Murrell Dobbins High School in 1982, Debra pursued a career in Business Administration. She worked part-time jobs that allowed her to focus on full-time pioneering, including positions at Susquehanna International Group LLP, Pew Charitable Trust, and other ventures like catering and Avon sales. Her generous spirit shone through as she shared the perks of her job—treating loved ones to zoo trips, sporting events, and meals.

On November 4, 1989 she married the love of her life Richie Hickmon. Who affectionately called her “Sweets”. Rick and Deb went on their first date December 18, 1988 and soon realized it was love. The two enjoyed 35 years of happy marriage. Jehovah enabled them to pioneer side by side, cherishing many special privileges, including the opportunity to serve in West Virginia in 1993. After returning to Philadelphia, they were assigned to assist the Mantua congregation. Jehovah blessed their efforts, allowing them to serve a total of six congregations. They chose to forgo having children in this system, yet one of the greatest blessings they received was the joy of gaining spiritual children-who affectionately called her Momma Deb. Later, they had the privilege of serving together in the substitute Circuit work.

Debra had a love for outdoor activities—water sports, skating, camping, biking—and especially enjoyed watching sports with her husband and mother. She also loved attending live plays and musicals, often breaking into song, especially from The Sound of Music. Above all, her passion was her ministry. She spent countless hours teaching others about Jehovah and helped many Bible students to baptism. Her kindness, generosity, and warm spirit were evident to all who knew her.

Sadly, in September 2022, Debra was diagnosed with Glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer. Despite the diagnosis, her faith in Jehovah remained unshaken. She continued to participate in the ministry and share the Bible’s hope with others. Even after undergoing two brain surgeries, she visited the sick and sent messages of encouragement to those in need.

Debra was deeply loved and cherished by her family and friends, who will always remember her warmth, her infectious laugh, her radiant smile that would light up a room, and above all, her unwavering love for our Grand Creator. Words cannot capture the depth of our loss or how greatly she will be missed. Our hearts long for the day when we will be joyfully reunited with her once again.

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