Debra Ann Ekpoh, age 59, of Shawnee, Oklahoma, passed away Saturday, October 22, 2022, at Gospel of Life in Moore, Oklahoma after a recent battle with cancer.

Debra was born February 19, 1963, in Mobile, Alabama. As a young adult, Debra relocated to Shawnee, Oklahoma where she raised her two children, Kierra and Paul. Debra was a strong, resilient, hardworking woman and fiercely protective mother. Debra had a talent for helping others, always being cheerful, and bringing a smile to the face of everyone she met. Debra earned "Graduate of the Year 2018" through "Shawnee Bridges Out of Poverty" and dedicated her time giving back to the community and being an advocate for others. Debra helped Shawnee Bridges create their "Blueprints for Success" program, making them the first organization of their kind with a follow-up program in the United States. In addition to being instrumental in the development of "Blueprints for Success", Debra became the program's first facilitator. In Debra's free time, she enjoyed cooking amazing soul food for her friends and children and going thrift shopping. In addition to spending time with her children, watching "Undisputed" and "Young and Restless", she really enjoyed seeing the Dallas Cowboys lose every chance she got. Her favorite restaurant was Cheddar's, and her favorite color was purple. Debra will be dearly missed by her daughter; Kierra, son; Paul, and the family and friends she made through her selfless efforts at Shawnee Bridges and within the community. A Celebration of Life will be held for Debra on Saturday, October 29 at 11:00am at the McElyea & Owens Funeral Group Memorial Center; Located at 5110 N. Harrison St., Shawnee, OK 74804.