Debbra Ann Gilliard Penn

Debbra Ann Gilliard Penn was born on December 27, 1959 in Harlem, NY to Isaac and Emily E. Gilliard. Debbra was their beloved first child/daughter; one of their five adored children; and was the first of Elijah and Elizabeth Collins’ many cherished grandchildren. During her early years Debbra lived with her God loving family in NYC Housing Authority’s Lincoln Houses and was a member of Harlem’s Greater Central Baptist Church.

Debbra was educated in the NYC Public School system attending PS 133, PS 197, JHS 52, and Benjamin Franklin High School. After graduating HS - at age 17 – Debbra elected to enter the workforce. An extremely sociable and skilled communicator, Debbra was drawn to jobs that allowed for human interaction and client support. Her unique ability to fuse humor, efficiency, and excellent counsel resulted in many commendations and even an employer sponsored vacation to Disneyworld.

Debbra always gave it to you straight and was known and appreciated for her candor. She prayed daily, loved deeply, and was quick with hilarious harmless snaps. Her laugh was dramatic and loud, especially when she and her best friend and only sister, Deidra (AKA Sistah) engaged in their SHEnanigans. Everything about Debbra was bold, yet warm.

Debbra’s favorite pastimes were enjoying the serenity of her Maryland apartment, attending Church, listening to Gospel music, watching movies featuring African American casts, playing Words with Friends, and securing free Candy Crush lives. Like her mother before her, Debbra’s proudest achievement was that of Mommy/Grandma. Debbra’s LOVE for her children, Tameaka and Terrell, was only matched by her adoration for her grandchildren, Tamya, Gavin, and Robert. She committed her life to ensuring that they were all well cared for. Debbra also had many adopted children/grandchildren including Curtis, Perry, Liam, and Lucas.

Debbra was a breast cancer survivor who, throughout much of her later years, struggled with a number of other health conditions that ultimately were not conquered.

Debbra’s life was filled with loyalty and affection for her loved ones and she leaves a legacy as a devoted daughter, mother, grandma, sister (Deidra/Gary, Darryl, Isaac/Stephanie, and Michael/Angie), Daughter-in-Law (Stephanie); giving and available aunt (Nicholas, AJ – who she helped raise and mentor - Xavier, Neis, Caden, Brady, Cora, Graycen); beloved Niece; loving 1st cousin to many; dear friend/co-worker; and a woman with a ready beautiful smile and tremendous heart. Debbra’s blessings were many and she unceasingly thanked God for all of them.