Deborah Ann Barben Race, 72, of Bridgeville, DE passed away Thursday, December 28, 2023. Born in Havre de Grace, MD on October 24, 1951, she was the daughter of the late Joseph John, Sr., and Myrtle Faye DeBoard Barben.

A graduate of Elkton High School, Debbie was on the track and field team and a long-distance runner during her time there. She loved shooting pool, playing cards, being out on her boat, sun bathing, and time spent at the beach. Debbie enjoyed hosting holiday parties and taking care of her family, especially her parents. Her fried chicken and sweet tea was just like her mother's. Her girls, Tammy and Tracy, were her world and always came first. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include her loving husband of 17 years, Charles William Race, Jr.; children, Tammy Smith, and Tracy Virgo (Richard), both of Elkton, MD; stepchildren, Candace (Cory), Charlene, and Carla (Nathan), all of Harrington, DE; grandchildren, David, Summer, Shauna, Chrissy, Shana; step-grandchildren, Cade, Coah, Cavid, Ethan, Tucker, Alexa; great-grandchildren, Makayla, Nicky, Lilly, Koal, Avalee, Kayleigh, Faith, Kylee, Callie, Shane, Sabastian; mother-in-law, Betty Paulus; siblings, Joseph "Butch" Barben, Jr. (Nita), Elkton, MD, and MarySue Barben Floriolli (Joe), Millsboro, DE; and a host of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by 2 great-grandchildren; and brothers, David Lee Barben and Robert Barben.

Funeral service will be held 11 AM, Thursday, January 4, 2024 at Hicks Home for Funerals, 103 W. Stockton Street, Elkton, MD 21921, with visitation beginning at 10 AM. Interment will be in Gilpin Manor Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Cecil County Animal Services Foundation at 3280 Augustine Herman Highway, Chesapeake City, MD 21915.