With deep respect and loving remembrance, we announce the passing of Deborah Denesea Griffin (née Barton) on June 27, 2026, in Ozark, Alabama. Born December 15, 1963, in Haynes City, Florida, Deborah brought warmth, generosity, and compassion into every space she graciously entered throughout her 62 years of life.

Deborah’s formative years began in Florida, where she developed the strong values and spirit that would define her remarkable journey. She later pursued higher education, attending some college at Enterprise State Community College, an experience that fueled her passion for service and care for others.

Deborah’s career as a social worker at Ozark Health and Rehabilitation was marked by dedication, empathy, and a deep commitment to the well-being of those in her charge. Her professional life was more than a job – it was a calling that matched her character of putting others before herself. Colleagues and clients alike recall Deborah as a person whose patience, understanding, and unwavering support provided comfort and hope to individuals and families during their times of greatest need.

Beyond her career, Deborah found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. She delighted in playing cards with loved ones, cherishing the laughter and stories shared around the table. The beach called to her soul, offering peace, renewal, and countless cherished memories with family and friends. Above all, Deborah lived her life guided by her Christian faith, which shone through in the kindness, integrity, and love she extended to all.

Central to Deborah’s life was her devotion to family. For thirty-eight treasured years, she was united in marriage to Barney Griffin, a partnership grounded in love and mutual respect. Together they built a home filled with warmth and devotion, nurturing their children and welcoming each new generation with open hearts.

Deborah’s legacy endures through her beloved husband, Barney Griffin; her father, Willie Ned Barton; her children and their families: Rickey Barton and his wife Tina, Lajuana Crittendon, Latoya Barton, Lametria Griffin, and Lamar Griffin. Siblings; Bridgett Barton, Zackary Barton, Robert Fitzgerald Barton, Rodney Barton, Subrina Barton-Moore. She was the proud grandmother of Jalen Barton, Karaun Taylor, Kevon Crittendon, Amarion Stewart, Jakeem Barton, Amya Jones, Juelz Rambert, Davion Eberhart, Omarion Eberhart, and Jaycion Williams. She also leaves behind great-grandchildren Kasai Taylor and Kristian Crittendon, who brought her great happiness and joy and a special cousin Wynetta Jones.

Deborah is preceded in death by her mother, Gladys Clara Barton, whose love and example profoundly shaped Deborah’s life.

Her memory will be honored during a visitation on Friday, July 3, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Newman Mortuary INC, 114 Harper Dr, Ozark, AL. A funeral service will follow on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Willow Oaks, 660 Willow Oaks Drive, Ozark, AL. She will be laid to rest that same day at Greater Old Salem Baptist Church, 2116 County Road 38, Ozark, AL, with a burial service beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Deborah Denesea Griffin’s life was one of deep love, tireless care, and unwavering faith. All who knew her are richer for her presence and poorer for her passing. As family and friends gather to celebrate her memory, the lessons she taught and the love she shared continue to shine as a guiding light.