Elder Mazeline Debrow

1949 - 2025

“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” - John 14:2-3

On Sunday evening, March 2, 2025, God called Elder Mazeline Debrow home to her eternal rest. A devoted woman of faith, love, and service, she lived her life as a testament to God’s grace and mercy.

Born on May 17, 1949, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late James Sr. and Audrey Ferguson, Mazeline moved to Nansemond County (Suffolk), Virginia, as a young child and was lovingly raised by her grandparents, Burtell and Lillie Edwards.

From an early age, Mazeline accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior, dedicating her life to serving the Lord. She was a faithful and active member of The St. Matthew 25th Church, where she touched countless lives. She served as an Elder, a member of the Trustee Board, the Financial Team, and the Push Faith House Outreach Ministry. She also ministered through Shepherd’s Care and lifted spirits in worship as part of The Supreme Angels praise team. Her joyful spirit was evident in the way she worshipped, dancing before the Lord in her signature black blazer. Her faith was unwavering, and she often reminded those around her: “Don’t tell me what God can’t do.”

Mazeline’s compassionate nature extended beyond the church walls. She dedicated her career to caring for others, first as a private duty nurse. It was during this time that she met and later married her beloved husband, the late Turner Debrow Sr.. She then transitioned into working with intellectually disabled individuals, a calling she embraced with grace and kindness. Mazeline found fulfillment in ensuring that those in her care were treated with dignity and love, never once complaining, but instead seeing it as a blessing to serve others.

The sixth of eight children, Mazeline was preceded in death by her sisters Arlene Ferguson, Eloise Moore, and Linda Ferguson; her brother James Ferguson Jr.; her stepsons Turner Debrow Jr. and Demetrius Debrow; her stepdaughters Ithelia “Fruity” Cuffee and Paulette Debrow Huggins; and her step-grandson Nathaniel “Lil Huggy” Huggins.

Her memory and legacy will continue through the lives of those who loved her dearly, including her stepdaughters Diane Tillett (June) and Denise Debrow; her stepson Michael Eley; her brother-in-law Richard Debrow; her sisters Laverne Taylor, Lillie Feliciano, and Hazeline Ferguson; 11 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren; her daughter-in-law Catherine Debrow; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Mazeline had a radiant spirit that filled every room with warmth, laughter, and love. She was a woman of strength, wisdom, and unwavering faith, always encouraging others and reminding them of God’s power and goodness. She lived a life of selfless service, always putting God and others before herself.

We will forever cherish the laughter that lifted our spirits and the smile that gave us hope. “Nene,” your love, your faith, and your legacy will live on in our hearts forever.

Rest in eternal peace, dancing in Heaven’s joy, worshipping in God’s glory.