Deborah McDonald was born November 27, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois to the union of Roger McDonald and Dorothy Christine Alexander.

She was blessed with other brothers and a sister. Deborah was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Joseph.

Deborah, affectionately known as “Deb”, was educated in the Chicago School System. After completing her education, she met and married Robert Ephraim. Deborah later moved to Toledo, Ohio where she met her lifetime love and partner Lionel Wortham. Here she began to build her life and lay the foundation for her future.

Deborah had many jobs over her lifetime, but her greatest achievement in life was being a nurturer. Deborah was a nurturer by definition. Although she had no children of her own, she greatly impacted many lives, mainly her younger siblings. Deborah chose to mentor and guide a host of brothers, sister, nieces, and nephews through their life paths including Lionel’s nieces and nephews.

Deborah enjoyed nothing more than sitting around with family and reminiscing about her family ancestry. Some of Deborah’s most enjoyable times were at her mother’s home entertaining family and friends with storytelling and laughter.

Deborah committed her life to Jesus Christ before being called home. She made her transition on May 14, 2021.

Deborah leaves to cherish her life, partner Lionel Wortham. Six siblings; brothers, Curtis (Sammie) McDonald, Roger (Genese) McDonald, Anthony (Lanita) Gray, Derrick (Kitten) Gray, Michael Gray, and sister Jacqueline Gray. A host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends who will treasure her memory forever.