Deborah Lou Whitelaw

July 25, 1952 - May 14, 2021

Deborah Lou Whitelaw, beloved mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, friend, colleague, and neighbor, passed away at Mary Washington Hospital on Friday, May 14, 2021 after a battle with cancer. She was blessed with the joy of meeting her first grandson born May 13, 2021. She was born July 25, 1952 in Kremmling, CO to Marilyn McKee Whitelaw and Walter Richard Whitelaw. After graduating from Northern Colorado University in 1974, she joined the US Navy as a Registered Nurse leaving as a Lieutenant after 4 years of faithful service. She would continue serving and helping others as a Workman’s Compensation Nurse Case Manager and later as a Teacher’s Assistant to special needs children. She dedicated herself to her family, giving birth to twins who would be her pride and joy. Her love knew no bounds, her patience no end, and her devotion no equal. Both children credit her guidance and love with who they have become as people today. She recently left behind many beloved friends and a loving community to retire and live closer to family in Stafford, VA. A caring, lighthearted, and compassionate person, she always had time for loved ones and friends. Debbie always provided thoughtful wisdom, a good story, or a much-needed laugh. She was also a great listener and consoler during difficult times. She enjoyed family trips, especially to the Grand Tetons and recently fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Scotland. Debbie was a strong courageous woman who chose to handle many of life’s challenges privately. She was an active member of Doylestown United Methodist Church, Doylestown, PA. She is survived by her son, Galen Ober and wife, Rebecca; daughter, Kirsten Owens and husband, Ricky and grandson, Jacob Walter Owens; brother, David Whitelaw and wife, Joleen; sister, Cindy Andrew and husband, James; Former spouse, David Ober. Deborah’s family will receive friends on Sunday, July 25, 2021 from 2-3pm with a memorial service in the chapel from 3-4pm at Morris Funeral & Cremation Care, 304 Merrimon Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in her name to the Wounded Warrior Foundation. Online condolences may be sent at www.mullinsthompsonstafford.com.