Deborah Priscilla O'Brien, age 58, passed away peacefully in her sleep on 6 January, 2021, due to COVID-19 complications. She was born 1 August, 1962 in Durban, South Africa to Cecil and Maria Robb.
Debbie was a kind and loving woman, to whom her family was her whole world. Her daily purpose in life was to bring some small happiness or joy into the lives of her loved ones. With her sons and dear family living abroad, she dedicated her time to being present in their lives every single day even though she couldn't be near them. One of the fondest and enduring memories we have of her was her habit to respond to any message, picture or video she received from us, no matter how unimportant or mundane it may have been. She doted on Keith, her husband, lifelong love and best friend, for all 34 years of their marriage. Her absence will leave a hole in our hearts, and our day to day lives, that will never be replaced.
The pride she had for her sons, nephews and nieces was immense. She could sing their praises (and gloss over their faults) for hours to anyone willing to listen. The time she spent, love she showered, meals she cooked and encouragement she always gave to them through their lives has contributed to the people they are today. Truly, her greatest legacy will be their future lives, achievements and loves.
Debbie had a deep love of animals. From her dogs, Jack and Jill, to the myriad birds that she fed in her garden every day, the joy she showed to any animal she met was contagious. Even the monkeys who sneaked into her kitchen to steal her bananas and bread had a tender spot in her heart.
Besides Keith and her boys Rogan and Devin, she is survived by her siblings Alaine, Arthur and Samantha, as well as many siblings-in-law, nephews and nieces.
Due to the current situation, she will have a memorial only for immediate family on Thursday, 14 January at 3 p.m. A live stream link, for all those whose lives were touched by Debbie but cannot be present, will follow in due course. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to your local animal shelter.
Please join us in celebrating her life by sharing a memory, anecdote or photo on this website, where we can memorialize our love for a very special lady indeed.