Deborah Riley, daughter of the late Ellis Riley and Annie R. Riley, was born in Albany, Georgia on May 30, 1958.

She was educated in the Dougherty County and Bay District School Systems, graduating from Rutherford High School in Panama City, Florida in 1976.  Throughout school, Selina was a very inquisitive student  with a zeal for learning.  She continued her education at Darton College (now Albany State University).

Having been totally captivated by an Albany firefighter, John Watson, a loving courtship evolved and they were later married.

Deborah was blessed to have had a profound secretarial and administrative professional career that was marked by high expectations and unquestionable integrity.  She was employed by notable and diverse companies, including  AL Williams, EDS, Coca-Cola Company, and Novoste.  Later in her career, she provided full support for her son's startup company, Hexagon Lavish ® .  Throughout her career, she never shied away from hard work, was a top-notch organizer, and worked tirelessly behind the scenes to support co-workers and administrators.  In addition to her work duties and responsibilities, Deborah was also a member of the Albany-Dougherty Historic Preservation Commission  from which she received an award for ten years of distinguished service.

Known to have a caring spirit, Deborah was a sprite woman with an impactful persona that would brighten any room with her graceful  presence.   She was a trusted friend and confidant, accepted everyone for who they were, and openly welcomed family and friends into her heart and home.  Having the privilege of being loved by her was to know you would be loved for a lifetime.

On Wednesday, January 18, 2023, Deborah faced the sunset of her earthly journey and entered into eternal rest.  Although her departure leaves a void, we rejoice and give reverence to God for allowing us to share her life for 64 years.

Cherished memories will forever remain with her loving son, Desmond Johnel Watson; siblings, Ellis Ray Riley, Kathy Riley, and Vanessa Shontee;  aunts, Barbara Cooper, Marilyn (Larry) Green, and Barbara Knox; and a host of nephews, cousins, and friends.