Deborah Louise Staten

On December 25, 2025-the sacred day that marked the birth of our Lord and Savior- His faithful child, Deborah Louise Staten, 71, of Delbarton, WV, was called to her heavenly home. She was the daughter of the late Tom B and Gertrude Vernatter who loved her wholeheartedly. Above all, however, she was the daughter of the King of kings and she lived her life accordingly.

In addition to her parents, Deborah was preceded in death by her brother Robert Lee Vernatter, her sister Cora Carolyn Vernatter, and a young man so special that she grew to call him her son, Moses Bowen. She is survived by her loving, devoted husband, Larry Staten and their children Candida Campbell, Brandon Staten, and Kim Staten. She is also survived by countless others whom she loved as her own, including Brad Preece who never failed to genuinely let her know that he would be there day or night if she needed him.

Standing at just 5 feet, Debbie cast a tall shadow, for her walk with the Lord was bold. From the time she was a child, she was witnessing for Jesus and could often be seen as the little blonde girl who delivered food to the widows and elderly and out around town praying for the sick. Just as the example set forth by her Savior, she walked among what the world would refer to as mere sinners and reminded everyone that we all were sinners, saved by Grace. Even as a child, she led stumbling drunks safely to their homes, all the while telling them that they needed to give up "that old devil's juice." The only time she entered bars was to hand out Bibles and to pray for those to whom the Lord led her. She continued to witness for God for the entirety of her life, showing His love in many ways that many did not even see. For instance, at the sound of a siren, she would stop whatever she was doing to pray for not only the family in need, but also for the first responders as they traveled.

Debbie was a loving wife and mother who lived her life placing her family above herself. As the constant sidekick to her husband, she was always a part of his daily routine. They never wore wedding bands because their bond could not be confined to the circumference of a mere ring and their love was seen far more humbly in actions. Her greatest desire was that her home would become "a complete home of prayer," as she always led her family to the ways of God. Though she had a different and unique bond with each, she loved all of her children equally and was proud of their talents. She would often tell them that no matter what they accomplished in life, if they served God with all of their hearts, that would make her the proudest. Though quite the lady, Debbie also had a unique sense of humor and was often making her family, friends, and all those she would meet laugh. Her uniquely witty ways and shenanigans will be missed.

Debbie's last words upon this Earth were praise to her God, prayers for her family, and spiritual advice. She said that it was important that all know that Jesus is the only way, as He is our Lord and Savior. She also said that the Bible must be taken in its whole, not pieces, and that we are not to fear the Bible, but live by it. She repeated "for my children" and "for my husband" as she gave her last requests to her Master. She went gently and said she felt the presence of "her blessed, sweet Mommy" within those last hours. There is no doubt that she heard, "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

In honor of her, we leave you with this scripture:

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." – 2 Chronicles 7:14

Funeral services will be held at the Chafin Funeral Home Chapel on Sunday, December 28, 2025 at 1:00pm. Burial will follow in the Vernatter Cemetery at Delbarton. Visitation will be Saturday evening from 6:00pm till 9:00pm. Chafin Funeral Home is proudly serving the family.