Deborah Annis Batts Forehand, of Petersburg, affectionately known as “Ma”, “Deb”, “Sis”, “Ahma”, “Momma D”, “Ms. D”, or “Ms. Deborah” born to Alton Batts Sr. and Manvella Lightbourne Batts on April 20, 1954 in Harlem, New York, unexpectedly departed from this life on March 27, 2024.

Deborah was a dedicated Army wife for 22 years. She was also a devoted cook for the Army for several years. She was a proud mother and grandmother and found immense joy in dancing for hours, cooking for family and the neighborhood, spending time with her friends, reading, shopping, and entertaining herself with games on her cell phone. She’s always had a passion for helping others, taking in people, making them an addition to her family.

Deborah leaves behind a legacy of love, endless recipes, and cherished memories. Surviving are her children, LaShawn Forehand, Tarita Forehand, Eugene Forehand Jr. and Catrina Forehand; devoted grandchildren, TaLees Owens, Courtney Rose, Jada Jones, Shania Washington, Adrian Jones, Vanessa Hopkins, Jamir Jones and Mykah Forehand; brother; Alton Batts Jr.; sister, Robbin Batts; a host of other relatives, bonus children, including Tamika Lee, Calvin Forehand Jr., the Christian and Washington brothers, their children, and her lifelong friends including those at Brookland Park Senior Living. Deborah will be deeply missed and remembered by her family and friends and anyone who knew her.

A memorial service will be held 3 p.m. Friday, April 5, 2024 at Scott's Chapel, 116 E. Brookland Park Blvd. Interment private. Livestreaming at scottsfuneralhome.com