A Foundation that continues Debbie's calling to serve others

Debbie's journey was always in the service of people, first as a human resource officer for decades at Johntson Community College, then as an health insurance agent and finally as a Chaplin (while working as a church secretary for decade). She heeded God's calling in her fifties to pursue a Masters of Divinity from Campbell University. UNC Johnston Health in Clayton, NC added fifty overnight beds to its facility and hired its first chaplin for their spirtual care needs. That person was Debbie. Then within two years Debbie was diagnosed with stage-4 triple-negative breast cancer and given a grim prognosis. Instead of getting on her pity pot, which she did privately sometimes, she soldiered on and came back to work after several treatments of chemo and radiation. Her main focus was always to serve those at the hospital (patients and staff) and hospice house. She showed others how to live as a Christian with a deadly disease. Ultimately, she showed everyone how to die like a Christian. Cancer won the battle, but she won the war through Christ Jesus. I told her in her last days that a Foundation would carry on her calling. She raised her eyebrow with approval and gave me a kiss. Cancer had ravaged her brain and talking was near impossible. Yet, while holding hands around her and with her, she still said a prayer for us before meeting the Lord. We all loved Debbie. Help us show that love to others. Please donate with the understanding God gets all the glory. She would have it no other way.

Deborah Lynne Wall (December 21, 1954 - October 4, 2018)

Rev. Deb Wall, who was a clinical chaplain (the first) for three and a half years at Johnston Health Clayton, said the most rewarding part of her job was serving and listening to patients, families and staff, and being truly present during times of need. "Our spiritual care department does a range of things, from providing inspirational quotes to the E-Liner to presenting "Teas for the Soul" to offering blessings of the hands," she said. "We're here for everyone." One of her proudest moments was helping a family accept the impending death of their matriarch, and encouraging them to share positive stories with her. "Providing a time of good conversation, laughter and cohesion is such a blessing to that loved one who is leaving this life," she said. During her spare time, she enjoyed reading on her deck at home. She lived on a small lake bursting with wildlife. "Watching ducks, geese and birds helps calm the spirit and feed the soul. And you can learn so much from them." Her greatest challenge in life, she said, was learning to give up being a perfectionist. "Did I still try to do things well? Of course. That was part of who I was, but I could be gracious with myself. It's okay to make a mistake. Life will go on."