Debra Jean Hayes

Debra Jean Hayes, affectionately called Debbie, along with her twin brother Darryl, was born in Los Angeles, California on April 2, 1958, to the late Eldon G. Hayes and Lolela S. Hayes. She was the only daughter of four children, two which preceded her in death (Darryl and Eldon Jr.). In her early adolescence, the family would move from Los Angeles, California to Kingman Arizona and ultimately to Temple Hills, Maryland which the family would call home.

Debra would become involved in the dramatic arts during her secondary years at Potomac Senior High School and would join the drama club and perform in several plays and productions. Debra was awarded a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education from the University of Maryland, and a Master’s Degree in Social Work.

Debra’s true passion was helping others, particularly children, which lead her to become a mother through adoption, which she considered to be one of her greatest achievements. During her profession, she held distinct roles, including Kid’s Peace Program Manager, Assistant Bureau Chief, P.G. County, Department of Social Services , Vesta Clinical Director and a licensed therapist for Catholic Charities.

Debra was in the process of writing her memoirs about her and her twin brother called, “Twin Rivers”. She will be remembered for her loving smile, home cooked meals, love of board games and her uncanny talent for memorizing numbers.

After fighting a lengthy illness, Debra departed this life on June 22, 2019. She leaves to cherish her memory, daughter Nadia, sibling Mike (Liberty), aunt Vera Henry (Bastrop, La), and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.