Deborah Sumter Obituary
Deborah was born October 28, 1957 in Norfolk, Virginia to Melvin Whitehurst and Clementine McNair. She lived most of her adult life in Passaic County and served for 37 years for the Paterson Board of Education, at Kennedy High School, where she was an administrative assistant. Throughout her life her faith and devotion to God was a shining light to all she encountered.
She is survived by her beloved children, Tinera, Timothy and Niel, and her cherished grandson, Jayden. She also leaves behind her mother Annie Whitehurst and siblings Melvin Jr., Malcolm, Lovey, Randy, Thomina, Gregory and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Relatives and friends will be received for a memorial gathering on Saturday, January 17, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls. Memories and condolences may be shared at gaitamh.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Deborah, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Jeanmarie Orso
January 18, 2026
Deborah was a wonderful woman who was kind and helpful to all who approached her. She was the administrative assistant at JFK when I was a nurse working in the Health Office. Then she became the secretary in the Health Office. Deborah was always pleasant and had a smile on her face and more than willing to help! She was so proud of her children and she always spoke of her grandson and was so proud of him as well. She will be surely missed. May God send peace to her family and may she rest in the palm of Our Lord's hands.
Melody Fitzgerald-Savage
January 17, 2026
Praying for the family to receive comfort from God knowing she is with him
Ted Buckley
January 17, 2026
It´s hard to make sense of why such a beautiful person is taken.
The Universe has no obligation to make things understandable for us.
Deborah was always smiling and trying to help others to smile with her.
She left good memories in the hearts of everyone that she interacted with.
Lynette Perry
January 17, 2026
A friend for many years. Always kind and helpful to me. We shared secrets and laughs. When I didn't hear back from you, I knew something was wrong. Blessings to your family.
Sleep in Paradise my friend.
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DARRYL HARRIS
January 16, 2026
I am truly saddened by Deborah gaining her wings. Never was there a time that we spoke we would leave each other without a hug or a smile. This is the only pleasant thing I my heart can hold for knowing and working with her for my entire teaching career. My condolences to everyone who knew and loved her and I know she joins a beautiful group of angels in heaven that most people reading this knows also
Deborah Neal
January 16, 2026
Extend my sincere condolences to Deborah´s children, mother, and family. Had the pleasure of working with her at Kennedy HS. Always soft spoken and shared kind words with each other. May Deborah´s soul Rest In Peace
Winnie Earle
January 15, 2026
Dear Family
I am so sorry to hear of Deborahs passing. She was a dear friend to those who knew her. She was so kind to the students at JFK and always willing to help.She has left a legacy that will always be remembered.
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154 Newark Pompton Tpke, Little Falls, NJ 07424
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