Debra Lynn Eikey

Debra Lynn Eikey, 67, born in Traverse City, MI on March 24, 1956 and resident of Roswell, GA passed away on September 24, 2023 at Grady Memorial Hospital. Truly, a sudden and devastating loss. Deb transitioned to her heavenly home surrounded by her loving husband and six children. She is survived by the love of her life of 46 years, Greg Eikey; her children: Erin Bruce (Quincey, Harbor, Saylor, Parks) of Dawsonville, GA, Krisi Lane (Peter, Lachlan) of Traverse City, MI, Eric Eikey of Roswell, GA, Kollin Eikey (Jaime, Kate, Kampbell) of Traverse City, MI, Elaina Crum (Will & baby Crum) of Roswell, GA, and Karson Eikey of Roswell, GA; and her siblings: Jenell Anderson (Frank), Jeff Gauthier (Amy), Jon Gauthier (Mary Anne), Ernie Gauthier (Kim), Mary Gross (Ernie, deceased), Colleen Smith (Christopher), Ben Gauthier (Jill), Paul Gauthier (Mary), and Megan Jones (Wes), in addition to her 32 nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents: James and Phyllis Gauthier, and her siblings: Kathleen, Jacqueline, Thomas, Michelle and Kelly Gauthier. She attended Traverse City Senior High and graduated from Northwestern Michigan College as a Registered Nurse. As the second of 15 children, the heavy loss of her five siblings was the catalyst to her becoming one of the most incredible hospice nurses anyone has ever met. She cared for family and others before herself. She earned Hospice Nurse of the Year in both Michigan and Georgia. She is an irreplaceable RN, OCN, CHPN, and Hospice Nurse as she provided extraordinary care for her patients and their families. Deb was a beacon of light for her family and brought warmth, kindness, and strength to those around her. She was an optimist, avid reader, fashion icon, phenomenal baker, wedding enthusiast, animated storyteller, Barbie aficionado and parade fanatic. The role she enjoyed most was becoming a Mittie and spoiling her beloved seven grandchildren. Her infectious laughter and genuine compassion made her a cherished confidante and a source of solace to those who needed it most. She truly was the epitome of unconditional love.

Deb's life was a testament to her unwavering faith and spirituality. She was an active parishioner of St. Peter Chanel in Roswell, GA and Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Traverse City, MI. Her faith was a guiding light that illuminated her path and provided strength during life's most challenging moments. She had a strong spiritual connection and was living proof of guardian angels.

When you hear someone say, "I don't have time" just remember, Deb would remind us that there is always time for one more hug, an extra scoop of ice cream, a conversation about the day, kindness towards a stranger, cheering on the marching band ("Go band!"), following up with family, catching up with friends, doing the right thing, dancing with full abandon, a full belly laugh, showing up and reminding all that love prevails.

The Viewing will be held on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at Northside Chapel in Roswell from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a rosary at 3:30 PM. The funeral service to celebrate Deb's life will be held on Thursday, October 5, 2023 at 10:30 AM at St. Peter Chanel in Roswell with a luncheon reception to follow. A Memorial Service will be held in Traverse City, MI later this year. To share your condolences, memories, and support, please visit Deb Eikey's Ever Loved Memorial Page.