Deborah triumphantly completed the divine mission of service that she was sent on earth 71 years ago to fulfill. She humbly returned to the merciful Savior on April 27, 2025. Her record of good deeds, and everlasting impression on the lives of many, is distinguished by her wisdom and compassion.

Born to the late Otis Rudolph Church Jr. and Margret Juanita Church on October 5, 1953, in Norfolk, Virginia; she was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, sister, cousin, and friend.

Deborah is a 1972 graduate of Kellam High School, Virginia Beach, Virginia. She retired from Newport News Shipbuilding (Department 33), in 2020 after 30 years of service. She was a faithful servant at Basilica of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception-Norfolk, VA, where she volunteered in the Soup Kitchen, and the Cleaning Ministry. Deborah enjoyed going on cruises, trips to casinos, shopping, and spending time with her family and friends.

The beauty of Deborah’s life is most appreciated by the testimony of those she encountered. Their words tell the story of a woman with unending love, who poured into those around her so they could enjoy life’s blessings. Deborah was preceded in death by her parents Rudolph and Juanita Church, and husband, Larry Donnell Askew, all of whom she loved and honored through her lifelong devotion to family and service. She leaves to treasure her memory nine siblings. Sisters: Donna Williams (Curtis), Jackie Ewing (Lawrence), Linda Sanders (Arthur), and Gail Skinner-Church. Brothers: Otis “Butch” Rudolph Church Jr, Reginald Church (Lisa), Anthony Church (Kimberly), Daniel Church (Mary), and James Church (Lisa). Children: Anthony K, Church, Larry Church (Renee), Damion Church (Shantel) and Kimberly Church. Bonus children, Patricia Hines and Larry D. Askew Jr. Grandchildren: Anthony K. Church Jr., Tamia Church, Larry Jordan, Taeveyon Church, Xavier Church, D’Niyah Church, Damion L. Church, Si’Riyah Church, and Aaliyah Church. Great grandchildren: Mi’Angel Powel, Kaiden Church, and Zen Church. Aunts, Alma Jones-Davis, Elaine Griggs, Mary Joans, Peggy Joans, Jacquline Burgess and Savannah Church and uncle, Robert Burgess. Also joining the family to celebrate Deborah’s life is her BFF, Lois Hill and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and special loved ones.