Debra F. Shorty

Debra F. Shorty, a retired Social Analyst II, passed away on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at West Jefferson Hospital in Marrero, Louisiana. Ms. Shorty was a long time resident of New Orleans. She was 73. She received the Certificate of Merit Award for Outstanding Service, signed by Mayor Sidney Barthelemy. She was the beloved mother of Catina Williams, Derrick Williams, and Chanell Williams; sister of the late Gussie Jackson; grandmother to her cherished grandson Ryan Rivieria and granddaughter Natalia Williams and is survived by a host of nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her loving pets, Roxy and Ms. Bee.

Debra graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Delgado Community College, a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Southern University of New Orleans, and later completed a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a Funeral Service at D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 1020 Virgil St, Gretna, La. 70053 on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 12:30pm. Visitation will begin at 11:30 am until 12:30pm. Internment: Evening Star Baptist Church Cemetery, 817 Grefer St., Harvey, Louisiana. Arrangements entrusted to D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 1020 Virgil Street, Gretna, La 70053. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the online guestbook, share memories and condolences with family.