Debra Ann Shah

We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Debra Ann Shah, who went to be with our Lord Jesus Christ on Sept. 26, 2024, in Stuart, Florida, at age 71. She was born on Feb. 16, 1953, to loving parents Marvin and Betty Johnston.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother John Johnston and granddaughter Sydney Shah. Surviving her is a devoted husband and friend of 37 years, Satish Chandulal Shah, as well as four beautiful children, William Brown, Nathan Brown, Amish Shah and Natalie Drumm. She also leaves behind 10 grandchildren who were her world, Madelynn Warren, Gillian Both, Grace Drumm, Jake Brown, Maya Shah, Samuel Shah, Eliza Drumm, William Shah, Charles Shah, and three great grandchildren; Mabel Both, Adrian Warren and Reuben Both.

Debra attended Broadmoore High School and later pursued a career in real estate where she truly excelled – later winning Texas's "Woman of the Year" award for her achievements in the field. In following years, she worked tirelessly to improve and beautify Elkhart, Indiana, where she lived with her husband and children. Her No. 1 passion project was the Riverwalk in Downtown Elkhart.

In addition to her professional work, she was passionately involved in organizations such as Young Life, Bible Study Fellowship and House of Hope. She spread her love of Jesus in all she did, from traveling abroad to help children rescued from human trafficking to leading Bible study for hundreds of women throughout the years. She would host anyone in need at their family home, organized charity events for multiple organizations and was a civil advocate in her community. When she wasn't working or volunteering – Debra mastered piloting single engine planes, enjoyed playing (and always winning!) Canasta, captaining her boat "2 Dream 4" and hosting the annual "Gammie Camp" for all of her grandchildren.

She was the matriarch of our family, a fierce advocate for the less fortunate, and a messenger of God's word. Her zest for life, amazing sense of humor, joyful spirit, and unconditional love will be deeply missed. While we know Debra is in the arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

We invite her friends, family, and loved ones to a visitation being held at Martin Funeral Home, 961 S. Kanner Highway, Stuart, Florida, from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Debra's name to the newly established 2 Dream 4 Foundation, created to honor her legacy. Donations can be made online at InspiringGood.org/give-online, please reference "2 Dream 4" or mail to the Community Foundation of Elkhart County, P.O. Box 2932, Elkhart, IN 46515, with "2 Dream 4" in the memo. Your generous support will help continue Debra's legacy of compassion and giving, ensuring that her dreams live on in the lives she touched.