Deborah Garrison

Deborah Garrison, born to parents Dr. Lamar and Vera Harper, peacefully departed from this world in Harlingen, TX at age 73. She spent her formative years in Tucson, Arizona. She was a beloved mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend to many.

Deborah was an affectionate person who gave her all to the people she loved, especially a devoted mother who poured love and care into her family. She found joy in nurturing her children. She had many friends, and family members that she cared deeply about.

She was not only a cherished family member and friend, but also a dedicated athlete who pursued excellence on the track. She was one of the top 10 (#8) female distance runners in the nation, and won a track scholarship to college where she studied to become a nurse. Her commitment to the sport and the countless hours of training led her to compete in the 1968 Olympic Trials, plus lots of medals along the way, a testament to her determination and skill as a runner.

Beyond the track, Deborah had a profound love for music, and the heartfelt notes of the piano were a constant companion throughout her life. She often found solace and joy in playing and sharing the beautiful melodies that echoed through her home, playing as an accompanist for others, and volunteering for her church congregation. In addition to her athletic and musical pursuits, Deborah achieved a bachelor’s degree in music and a master’s degree in homeland security. Her children have fond memories of going on nature walks with her, working in the garden together, and watching her sew.

Deborah lovingly raised her children in Chesterfield, Virginia. She is survived by her children Trina Barry of Champlin, MN, Stephen (Allison) Garrison of Midlothian, VA, Dr. Daniel (Silvia) Garrison of Burlington, IA, Tiffany Tucker of Stansbury Park, UT, and Tara Garrison of Hilo, HI, along with her 21 grandchildren whom she loved dearly.

Deborah is survived by siblings Stuart (Karen) Hancock and Suzette Peterson, as well as adoptive siblings Ed Hancock, Nancy Siegel, John Hancock, JoAnne Phillips, Froy Hancock, along with her Aunt Sue Norovich, and many adored cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents Lamar and Vera Harper, her adoptive parents James (Catherine) Hancock, her grandfather Cecil Hancock, grandmother Florence Powell, Aunt Gladys (Ken) Gardner, and Uncle Jerry (Astrid) Hancock, all of which held a special place in her heart.

A memorial service to celebrate Deborah Garrison's life will be held at East Lawn Palms Cemetery, in Tucson, AZ on October 18th for friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America or the Children’s Music Fund.

May Deborah’s soul rest in eternal peace. She will be dearly missed but will remain forever in our hearts as a loving mother, family member, and friend.