Deborah Ann (Roberts) Wiley was born on December 25, 1952, in San Diego, California, to Esther Mae Walker and William Louis Walker Jr. An only child, Deborah was Esther’s Christmas miracle—deeply loved, beautifully dressed, and cherished like
the princess she was. Though an only child, Deborah was raised alongside her cousins Lena Pettis and Octavia Freeman, who became her lifelong sisters. Under Esther’s loving care, they thrived—marching with LaMann’s High Stepper Drill Team, attending charm school, walked fashion show runways, singing in the church choir, and ushering at Mount Erie Baptist Church.
Deborah attended Valencia Park Elementary, O’Farrell Junior High, and graduated from Morse High School in 1971. She spent 10 years in the electronics industry before beginning a 20-year career as the warm, welcoming face of the department at the City Attorney’s Office, retiring in 2014.
In 1974, Deborah met her soulmate, James Thomas Wiley. They blended their families—Deborah’s daughter Deyondralyn and James’ daughters Loricia and Tanisha—and married in 1979. Together, they added four children: Faricha, Jayme, James Jr., and Jermaine. That same year, Deborah and James committed their lives to Christ and joined St. Stephen’s Church of God in Christ. While she first served in the choir, Deborah found her calling in intercessory prayer. Her faith, strength, and unwavering devotion made her a powerful spiritual presence.
Deborah’s passion for fashion and sewing began in high school and continued throughout her life. She passed her creative talents on to her daughter Jayme and grandchildren Teanna and Jyair, making beauty a part of everything she touched. A proud cultural organizer, she helped lead Juneteenth celebrations and bus trips to Allenstown State Park, creating cherished memories for many.
On July 8, 2025, Deborah transitioned peacefully, surrounded by her family. Her radiant smile, generous heart, and magnetic presence will forever be missed.
Deborah leaves behind her beloved family: husband James T. Wiley, daughters; Deyondralyn Cobbs (Jeffrey) – Murrieta, CA, Faricha Wiley, and Jayme Wiley, sons; James Wiley Jr (Danielle) and Jermaine Wiley, stepdaughters; Loricia Wiley of San Diego, CA, and Tanisha Wiley of Bakersfield, CA. She is also lovingly remembered by 22 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and a host of family and friends who stood by her side until the very end.
Deborah Ann Wiley lived a life full of love, style, strength, and faith. Her legacy is stitched into the hearts of all who knew her; woven with prayer, kindness, elegance, and unshakable devotion.
