Deborah Lynn Wilder transitioned to be with Our Lord on November 23, 2019. She was well known for her loving heart and unselfish spirit. She was born on January 29, 1955 in Roanoke, VA to the late Bishop Norton B. Wilder and the late Mother Virginia Allen Wilder. She graduated from E. C Glass High School and received a BS degree in Special Education from Norfolk State University. She did further studies at Old Dominion University. She taught in the Bedford County School Systems for 32 years as a Special Education Teacher before her retirement. She also used her educational expertise in various community-based programs including Lynchburg Youth and Juvenile Services, Lynchburg Social Services and Jubilee Family Development Center. Aunt Debbie, as she was affectionately called, loved working to improve the lives of young people, she impacted so many young lives in a positive manner. She also served as a foster parent for many years.
Debbie loved the Lord and the church; she was a lifelong member of the Church of God in Christ. Prayer of Faith Temple was her heart, she continued to fulfill the legacy of her father, the late Bishop Norton B. Wilder by faithfully serving. She served in various capacities, but music ministry, children's church and dramatic arts was her passion. She served as Minister of Music at Prayer of Faith Temple, District level and currently was State Minister of Music for the Virginia 3rd Jurisdiction. She was an excellent director, lead and background vocalist.  Debbie was also an actress, she performed in numerous musical and dramatic productions.
Debbie was a dedicated daughter, mother, sister, aunt and friend. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers: James Wilder, David Wilder, Norton Jonathan Wilder and sisters: Mamie Irving and Jacqueline Horry. She leaves to celebrate her life and legacy: Dr. Geraldine Perkins, Minister Timothy Wilder, Toni Pate (Raymond , Sr.), Rosalind Simpson (Malverse), Paula Ortiz (Pedro),  Sister-In-Law Elaine Wilder and The Honorable Sterling A. Wilder, two daughters birthed from her heart: Chalanda Reid and Cimera Reid, maternal uncle Mr. Earl Allen and many nieces, nephews, cousins, foster children, church family and friends.
A Musical Tribute and family visitation will be Friday, November 29, 7:00 pm. at The Living Word Church, 825 Taylor St Lynchburg, VA.  Additional visitation will be November 26 & 27, from 4pm to 7pm at 1713 Heritage Circle, Lynchburg.  A celebration of life will be Saturday November 30, 12:00 pm at the Prayer of Faith Temple-Zion City COGIC, 3100 Hill St. Lynchburg, VA 24501. Elder Jonathan Willis eulogist.  In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials be made to Jubilee Family Center, 1512 Florida Ave, Lynchburg, VA 24501 or Zion City Day Care, 3100 Hill St. Lynchburg, VA 24501.  Special thanks to our angels on earth, Centra Health Hospice, your assistance was invaluable.  Davis Turner Funeral Home is assisting the family.