Debbie Degefa

Debbie Degefa passed away on Sunday, April 18, 2021 at home from ovarian cancer. She was 44.

Born on October 27, 1976 in Dembi Dollo, Welega in South-western Ethiopia.  She was the second of Degefa Etana and Tesfaye Aga’s four children.

Debbie was highly spiritual and lived her life in service of others. At her core, she believed in paying-it-forward by giving whatever little worldly possession she had to those more in need. Some of the many examples of her generosity are when she gave her entire savings to a student - who she barely knew but was in distress - for a college tuition, her ongoing support as a translator to newly relocated families adapting to life in the US, and friendships she extends to any and all in her church community. “Giving and helping people makes me whole and happy,” said Debbie.

Debbie loved and adored her parents. She often spoke of their blessings, unconditional love and boundless support during her lowest moments in life.

She graduated from Sheboygan South High School in 1996 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Lakeland College in 2000.

Debbie is survived by her parents, father Degefa Etana and mother Tesfaye Aga of Upper Darby, PA; brother Felma Degefa and sister-in-law Donelle Degefa of Caledonia, WI; sister Herra Degefa and brother-in-law Ensarmu K. Shino of Upper Darby, PA; and brother Egan Degefa and sister-in-law Lensa Desta of Philadelphia, PA.

She is also survived by her nieces and nephews Solan, Mati, Nattan, Lillu, Losha and Sonaa.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 24, 2021 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1145 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA with Pastor Mathewos Shibo officiating. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family from 9:30 to 11:00 AM prior to the Memorial Service.

Burial will follow the Memorial Service at Fernwood Cemetery and Mausoleum, 6501 E. Baltimore Avenue, Lansdowne at 12:15 PM.

The family requests all guests to wear masks and observe social distancing during visitation, memorial service and interment.