Deborah Ann Kemp, lovingly known as Debbie, was born on July 5, 1959, at Milford Memorial Hospital to her proud parents, Franklin R. Hastings Sr. and Georgia Ann (Wolfgang) Hastings. She grew up on the family farm, Thankful Acres, in Laurel, surrounded by love and laughter with her siblings, Grant, Martin (Kim), Crystal (Rick), and Franklin (Tricia).
Debbie attended Laurel High School, where she was an enthusiastic member of the cheerleading squad, wearing uniforms carefully sewn by her and her mom. After graduating in 1977, she pursued her passion for helping others by enrolling in Salisbury State College’s Nursing Program. In 1978, she answered the call to serve her country by joining the United States Army, where her journey took her to duty stations across the country and overseas, including the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY, Presidio of San Francisco, CA, Fort Sam Houston, TX, Fort Riley, KS, Fort McClellan, AL, Boston, MA, and Karlsruhe, Germany. Debbie proudly retired as a Sergeant First Class after dedicating over 17 years to military service.
Following her military career, Debbie found fulfillment in her work as a Pharmacy Technician at Christiana Care, American Home Patient, and IV Solutions. She also shared her knowledge and experience by teaching the Pharmacy Technician Program at Delaware Technical and Community College in Georgetown.
Debbie’s greatest joy in life was her role as a mother to her three cherished children, Danielle, David (Diane), and Danae. She was a constant source of love and support, always present for their scholastic and extracurricular activities.
In 2001, Debbie met her future husband, Ronald Kemp, at The Ark (Seaford Wesleyan Church). They began dating in 2003 and married on Oct. 1, 2005. Through their union, Debbie embraced her role as a stepmother to Marshall (Kaylyn), Miranda, and Morgan Kemp, creating a blended family filled with love.
Becoming “Nana” was one of Debbie’s greatest blessings, and she adored every moment spent with her grandchildren: Isaiah, Cameron, Alana, Kaiden, Lyric, Lyriah, Ryder, Hazel, Ayva, Maliah, and Alanna. She took immense pride in being part of their lives and creating cherished memories. Her love and warmth will forever be cherished in their hearts.
Debbie’s faith was a guiding light in her life. As a devoted member of The Ark, she poured her heart into serving her church family, especially in the Women’s and Children’s Ministry. She extended her caring nature to the wider community through her work with organizations such as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Sussex Pregnancy Care Center, Rachel’s Vineyard, and Her Care Clinic, offering support and guidance to families and expectant mothers.
Those who knew Debbie will remember her love for crafting, floral arranging, wreath making, and sewing. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially reading and spending time at the beach, which brought her peace and happiness.
Debbie is survived by her many nieces, nephews, and extended family, all of whom will carry her memory in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her mother, Georgia A. Hastings; her beloved brother, R. Grant Hastings; and her grandparents, George W. and Mary A. Wolfgang and Lionel P. and Gladys R. Hastings.
Debbie’s life was a testament to love, faith, and service. Her kindness and generosity touched so many lives, and her memory will forever be a source of inspiration.
A celebration of life for Debbie will take place on Saturday, Jan. 25 at 2 p.m. at Seaford Wesleyan Church “The Ark”, 26630 Sussex Hwy. in Seaford. The family will receive friends one hour prior at 1 p.m.
Arrangements are in the care of Pippins Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sussex Pregnancy Care Center and The Ark (Seaford Wesleyan Church) in Debbie’s honor.