Debbie Castro was born and raised in Washington, D.C., where she resided with her mother, father, and younger sister. Debbie had a great spirit and her smile was infectious. Debbie was a happy, cheerful, curious, and extremely bright child. From the very beginning, she excelled in school and showed a love for learning and a natural intelligence that would later bring her much success and accomplishments in life.

Debbie attended Stevens Elementary School in Washington, D.C., where she began to make many new friends, some of whom she would keep for life. During this time, she took dance lessons, both ballet and tap, and performed in many concerts and recitals. Debbie continued to be a good dancer and always enjoyed fun times and celebrations. She attended the Academy of Notre Dame School in Washington, D.C., where she graduated Valedictorian of her class. After graduation, Debbie attended Howard University, where she received a B.A. in Marketing, and later obtained a Master’s in Business Administration.

In 1999, Debbie was initiated into Rho Mu Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Sorority, Inc., in Washington, D.C. After her initiation, she moved to Indianapolis, IN, where she lent her talent and efforts to AKA as a national member, and served her community through the local chapter. Upon her return to Washington, D. C., Debbie rejoined Rho Mu Omega Chapter, and continued to contribute her efforts to the chapter’s foundation and global poverty programs in D.C.
Debbie’s success can be attributed to her innate intelligence, but she was a young woman who possessed great self-confidence and a true sense of her own abilities and talents. Debbie was a “natural.” Debbie had a zest for life. She loved and was loved by family and friends alike. She enjoyed traveling, going to the movies, and music concerts. Debbie also enjoyed going out to dinner and parties with friends, playing cards and “just hanging out.” Debbie was great with children and was a favorite “Auntie” and was so adored by the children that she too loved very much.

Debbie had a spiritual life that included supporting her church family, volunteering with local nonprofits, including the American Heart Association and a number of other local charities. In the last two years of her life, she struggled with her illness but it never dampened her strong spirit. Her courage and brave resolve kept those surrounding her strong as well. Her remarkable personality and strength prevailed until the end.

Our beloved Debbie departed this life, much too soon, on July 30, 2013