Debora Anne Rafeedie

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Debora Rafeedie (Murray), age 67, on April 1, 2025. Debbie passed away alongside her beloved husband, Samir Rafeedie—an unexpected loss that spoke to the closeness they shared. They were deeply devoted members of their church and community in Arizona, where they touched many lives with their kindness, generosity, and faith.

Debbie was born in Killeen, Texas, and raised in Silver Spring, Maryland. She was the daughter of Roland and Doris Murray, and sister of Sharron Lewis, Patrice Sabatano, Kelley Von Blon, Michael Murray, and Kristin Peterson. Her siblings were some of the most important people in the world to her and she held dear the memories of spending summers at the beach and raising their children together, ensuring that the cousins were always close.

Debbie attended the Academy of Holy Names during her childhood, where she formed lifelong friendships. She later studied English at the University of Maryland, College Park, before starting a family of her own in Maryland. She was the proud mother of three children, Leigh, Christopher, and Claire. Professionally, Debbie dedicated many years to working as an Event Coordinator at the Golden Bull Grand Café in Gaithersburg, Maryland. In this role, she was instrumental in planning and coordinating weddings, birthdays, and other special events, creating memorable experiences for countless families. Later in her career, she joined her husband's real estate business, working alongside him as a broker and property manager. Outside of her professional life and in retirement, she found joy in gardening, caring for animals, and continuously learning about health and wellness.

Debbie is survived by her three children—Leigh Adams and her husband Nic, Christopher Sauter and his wife Spasena, and Claire Christoff and her husband Jake—along with five beloved grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Doris and Roland, and her brother, Michael.

A memorial service to celebrate the lives of Debbie and Samir will be facilitated by Northstar Community Church and held at South End Baptist Church in Frederick, Maryland on Saturday June 7th at 10am. Family and friends are invited to join us as we honor and remember their love, their faith, and the lasting impact they made on all who knew them.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Frederick Rescue Mission, an organization dedicated to “Changing Lives Now and for Eternity.” This Christ-centered ministry serves those in need in our community—reflecting the faith and values Debbie and Samir held dear throughout their lives.