Deborah Brown

Deborah Brown, age 73, of Cleveland, Ohio, passed away on December 10, 2025.

Deborah was born on March 22, 1952, and was raised in the Seventh-day Adventist faith, which remained the foundation of her life. She was a strong believer in Jesus Christ, faithfully sharing her beliefs with her family and lovingly raising her children in the faith she held dear.

Deborah lived a life rich in purpose, connection, and gratitude. She was known for her warm, loquacious personality, her genuine love for people, and her deep interest in learning about others. She delighted in celebrating the lives and accomplishments of those around her and had a special gift for making people feel seen, valued, and heard. Rich in history, Deborah took great pride in sharing family stories and passing down her legacy, ensuring that traditions, memories, and lessons were never forgotten.

She loved community and created meaningful experiences through conversation, fellowship, and service. Deborah embraced the beauty and diversity of God’s world through travel, journeying throughout the United States--including a memorable 12-state tour--and internationally to destinations such as Fiji and the Bahamas.

Deborah had a deep passion for learning and exploring what the world had to offer, often taking a multitude of classes and immersing herself in different cultures through festivals and community events. She believed strongly in caring for the body naturally, using the God-given resources with which He blessed us, and lived this belief as a health-conscious vegan. She viewed wellness as a stewardship and an act of faith.

Above all, Deborah loved her family. She was generous with her time, especially cherished her sisters, and made every effort to remain closely connected with friends and loved ones. She was a thankful and grateful soul whose kindness, joy, openness, and devotion to community left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Deborah also supported and volunteered in civic engagement efforts, particularly encouraging voter participation and community involvement.

Deborah was preceded in death by her beloved parents, William S. Brown and Catherine Brooks Brown; her loving husband, Tomas Rodriguez; and her dear sister, Cheryl E. Brown.

She is survived by her sister, Dawn K. Brown; her brother, Virgil Childs; her loving children, Eric S. Brown, Tomas Rodriguez (Alma), and William “Billy” Rodriguez; and her cherished nieces and nephew, Dionne V. Childs, Mary-Catherine “Cheri” McDole, and Donavan Childs (Angela). She also leaves behind her beloved grand-nephew, Shawn Childs, and grand-nieces, Shannon Childs and Summer Childs, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Deborah’s faith assures us of the promise found in Scripture:

“And the nations of those who are saved shall walk in its light.”

— Revelation 21:24 (NKJV)

Family and friends are welcome on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m., at Slone & Co. Life Celebration Center 3556 W. 130th St. Cleveland, OH 44111. Additional visitation will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 10 a.m. until time of Funeral Service at 11 a.m., at Glenville Present Truth Seventh-day Adventist Church 737 E 105th St, Cleveland, OH 44108 (please meet at church).

Acknowledgement from the Family:

The family of Deborah Brown wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the prayers, love, kind words, and support shown during this time of bereavement. Your presence and compassion have been a great comfort and are deeply appreciated.