Deborah L. Dickey

With profound sadness, we share the passing of Deborah (Debbye) Louise Dickey of Laurel, a beloved wife, mother, nana, sister, and friend, who peacefully departed on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the age of 68. Born on July 15, 1956, in Iowa, Debbye radiated warmth, joy, and inspiration to everyone she met. As a dedicated certified nursing assistant, she spent her life caring for others, offering kindness and compassion that left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Debbye’s love for her family was boundless—she loved them to infinity and beyond. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Thomas E. Dickey, III, and their children: Awenita Hensley (Stuart), Veronica Dickey, Tommiee Jean Dickey (Tommy), Thomas Dickey, IV (Angela), Franklyn Dickey, Sr. (Marilyn), and Cassandra Dickey. Her cherished grandchildren—Patra Pamm Silvia, Kyle Hensley (Victoria), Storm Birkbeck, Rachel Birkbeck, Ben Birkbeck, Andrew Emilyta (Kristina), Selena Francese, Isabella Francese, Thomas E. Dickey, V, Caleb Dickey, Ariana Dickey, Gabriella Dickey, Pamela Dickey, Skyler Dickey, Frankiee Dickey, and Franklyn Dickey, Jr.—brought her immense joy, as did her great-grandchildren Kellyn Howell and Alanis Stevens. Debbye treasured every moment spent with her family and opened her heart to many children through foster care, providing them with love and support. She is also survived by her brother, Franklin Herren, Jr., sister-in-law Mildred Dickey, and many beloved siblings, nieces, and nephews. Debbye now reunites in peace with her mother, Helene Biltcliffe Baxter; father, Franklin S. Herren, Sr.; sister, Pamela Herren; brother-in-law, John Dickey; grandchild, Peyton Dickey; and many other family members. To honor Debbye’s life, a visitation will be held at Short Funeral Home in Delmar, DE, on Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A celebration of her life will take place on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Nita and Stu’s home in Delmar, where loved ones will gather to share memories and honor the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. Debbye will always be remembered for her gentle heart, unwavering love, and the countless lives she touched. As we honor her memory, may we find comfort in the love she so freely gave. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. In remembrance of Debbye’s kindness, contributions may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org or to the American Lung Association at www.lung.org. Arrangements are entrusted to Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.shortfh.com.

Deborah L. Dickey

July 15, 1956 - June 13, 2025