Deborah Carol "Tootie" Foeman

Deborah Carol Ratliff Foeman, born on September 11, 1955, in Burlington, North Carolina, peacefully passed away on August 16, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion. She was the beloved daughter of Lillie Mae Ratliff Gattis and Wallace Isley Jr.
Deborah was a cherished sister to James Donnell Ratliff, Terrie Gattis Daye (Willie), Antonio "Mill House" Gattis, Michael Dean Gattis, John Kent Gattis, Bryant O'Neal Gattis (Jamie) and William "The Baby" Eric Gattis (Donna),. She was a devoted mother to her two sons, Brandon Jamal Foeman (Rosie) and Blake Ramon Foeman (Kate), and a proud grandmother to Brianna Frankie Foeman, Isabella Ayani Foeman, Bianca Faith Foeman, and Ava Patricia Foeman.
A woman of compassion, determination, and intellect, Deborah graduated from Hugh M. Cummings Senior High School and continued her education at A&T State University, George Washington University, and ultimately the University of Miami. She built a fulfilling career, contributing her skills and dedication to Howard University Hospital, Caruba International Business Services, and Lowell Adkins, M.D., P.A.
Beyond her professional life, Deborah found joy in the simple and meaningful moments-spending time with her loved ones, staying active through exercise and tennis, and immersing herself in books. Above all, she took immense pride in her sons and grandchildren, offering them unwavering love, support, and encouragement throughout their lives. Deborah was known for her lively personality, warm heart, and affectionate spirit. She touched countless lives with her kindness and generosity, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy as a daughter, sister, mother, friend, and confidant serves as a testament of love, service, and faith which will live on in the hearts of the countless that she touched.
She was preceded in death by her loving parents and siblings: Sharon Gattis Love and Master Billy Wayne Ratliff.
A service to honor Deborah's life will be held Friday, August 22, 2025 from the chapel of Sharpe Funeral Home. The family welcomes all who knew and loved her to join in celebrating her beautiful journey. In remembrance of Deborah, the family encourages acts of kindness and support for one another, as she so effortlessly demonstrated throughout her life.
Services
Public Viewing/walk through
Thursday
August 21, 2025
1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Sharpe Funeral Home, Inc,
520 Rosenwald St.
Burlington, NC 27217
Wake-with the Family present
Friday
August 22, 2025
12:30 PM to 1:00 PM
Sharpe Funeral Home, Inc,
520 Rosenwald St.
Burlington, NC 27217
Funeral Service
Friday
August 22, 2025
1:00 PM
Sharpe Funeral Home, Inc,
520 Rosenwald St.
Burlington, NC 27217
Burial
North Lawn Cemetery
947-999 Ross St.
Burlington, NC 27217