Debra Olshaw

Debra "Debi" Lynn (Shiflett) Olshaw left this world and met her Lord, her son Joshua Robert Olshaw, and a host of others on February 7, 2017. After two and half years of living her life seeking as many happy memories as possible, she passed away from cancer and left behind many lives she touched in her special way. A quiet servant for her Lord, always preferring to be in the background through her actions, friends from her neighborhood, church, sporting events and family were blessed. In 1984, she married the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Olshaw. They settled in Davidsonville with their two blessings, Joshua Robert and Abigail Elise Olshaw. Debi was happiest participating fully in all of Josh and Abby's many sporting events and Abby's equestrian events. She shared these events with others through her gift of photography. She was unofficial "mom" to many other children and teens over the years with an open home and heart. She regularly hosted gatherings for sports teams, family friends and her church community with an abundance of food and fellowship, where all felt welcomed. Debi always put others before herself. Debi was also well known for her cryptic texts, scones extraordinaire, lover of Kimball's Ice Cream and good quality chocolate. In her past two and a half year battle with cancer, she continued her always positive attitude and determination to continue serving all and she will not be forgotten. Debi was born August 14, 1958 in Annapolis. She attended Annapolis High School, Eastern Nazarene College and obtained her MBA at Babson College. Debi worked in the business world for several years before "retiring" to her favorite job, loving and taking care of her family. She recently served as the church office administrator at Grace Evangelical Presbyterian Church. She is survived by her husband, Robert Olshaw, daughter, Abigail Olshaw, her parents, George and Jean Shiflett, her sister and brother-in-law, Coni and Bob Giannini, and three nieces, Neva and Tessa Giannini and Mara (Joe) Collinson. Not to be forgotten are her two four-legged children, Rita and Charlie. Her son Joshua Olshaw passed away in October 2015. In addition to immediate family, Debi leaves behind many other family members and friends. Debi's life will be celebrated at the Grace Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 4012 Birdsville Road, Davidsonville, MD 21035. Visitation will be held at the church on Friday, February 10 from 6-8 PM. Services will be held at the church on Saturday, February 11 at 10 AM. She will be laid to rest at Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville immediately after the service. A reception following the burial will be held in the church fellowship hall as we share our memories of Debi's impact on our lives. The family requests that donations be made to the Joshua and Debi Olshaw Memorial Fund, c/o Grace EP Church.