Deborah Gorby McMahon

eternal rest on Monday February 26, 2024, due to natural causes. She was born in St.

Petersburg, Florida on June 16, 1957. Debbie was predeceased by her mother, Nancy

Elizabeth Gorby (1982) and her father Robert Peyton Gorby (2019) as well as her brother

Robert “Buddy” Gorby (2005.)

Debbie is survived by her children Lisa Wilkinson (“Matthew”) Shannon McMahon and

Ryan McMahon; a sister Lynda Russell (“Randy”) and a brother Kevin Johnson (“Ana”); a

step-mother, Maryette Miller, and step-sisters, Mindy Bergen (“Phil”) and Nancy Hessler (“Gary”)

together with seven (7) nephews and many cousins who all loved and will miss her dearly!

Debbie defied odds while working in the largely male-dominated auto industry. She

started her career in the 80’s, working for McGinnity’s Auto in St. Pete, an independent auto

sales company. Debbie pursued her goals despite those who said being a woman in her field

was a disadvantage. Ultimately she moved on to a bigger organization, working for Manheim

Auto Auction in Ocoee, Florida. She stayed with Manheim up until the time of her retirement

around 2007.

Debbie was fortunate, experiencing a great deal of love throughout her life. At last she

married John Kevin McMahon, in a backyard ceremony of their Clearwater home. The backyard

wedding was quite intimate and attended by three. Their close friend Kerry Meyers who

introduced them, a notary, and their infant baby Shannon. They were pronounced husband and

wife on October 24, 1993. The two were married up until John’s passing on April 1st 2014.

Debbie experienced many ups and downs throughout her life, she sought comfort and

connection through the word of God. She returned to her faith over and over as she struggled to

navigate life without Him. Debbie learned that her life was most aligned when living congruent to

God’s word. She was very happy to be able to attend church again recently as her health had

been improving.

After her late husband's passing, there were many days in which Debbie felt the grief

was too much to bear. She received a great deal of support and empathy from her close friends

and loved ones. Thankfully, Debbie’s final days were some of her best in years! She was

prioritizing her health, making plans for her future, and reconnecting with those around her.

This brings her family peace. She is now in a better place, and the fond memories they

share will live on forever. We are happy she has ultimately found her peace.

A visitation for Deborah will be held Saturday, March 16, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 2853 SUNSET POINT RD, CLEARWATER, FL 33759. A funeral service will occur Saturday, March 16, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 2853 SUNSET POINT RD, CLEARWATER, FL 33759. A committal service will occur Saturday, March 16, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park, 2860 SUNSET POINT RD, CLEARWATER, FL 33759. A reception will occur Saturday, March 16, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 2853 SUNSET POINT RD, CLEARWATER, FL 33759.