Debora Anne Coulapides Gay entered this world on March 13, 1955, in Corona, California, born into a proud Navy family that instilled in her a love of country, discipline, faith, and service. On February 13, 2026, just one month shy of her 71st birthday, she passed peacefully in her sleep at her home in Green Cove Springs, Florida, after her courageous battle with ALS. She left this world as she lived in it—gracefully and surrounded by love.

Debora’s life was defined by service. Following in her family’s 3 generation naval tradition, she dedicated 30 years to the United States Navy as a member of the Navy Nurse Corps. Through three decades of faithful and distinguished service, she rose to the rank of Captain—an achievement reflecting her exceptional leadership, clinical excellence, and unwavering commitment to those in her care. She cared for service members and their families in moments of vulnerability and need, offering not just medical skills, but reassurance, dignity, and compassion. Her Navy family was never simply colleagues—it was a community she cherished deeply and served with honor. She went on to serve her community of Green Cove Springs as a Nurse Practitioner with the same care and devotion she had given on active duty.

Yet even beyond her professional accomplishments, Debora’s greatest calling was faith. A devoted Greek Orthodox Christian, she lived her beliefs daily, not through grand gestures but through quiet generosity and steadfast devotion. As an active member of Philoptochos, she gave freely of her time and heart, serving her church community with warmth and dedication. Her faith was not only something she professed; it was something she embodied—in kindness, hospitality, forgiveness, and in joy.

Debora’s life was also marked by extraordinary resilience. Twenty-five years ago, she faced breast cancer with courage and determination. When her hair returned, she celebrated not quietly, but beautifully, adorning herself with colorful fascinators that became her signature. Each one was a joyful declaration of survival and gratitude. They were not simply fashion; they were testimony.

And Debora loved fashion. She had an eye for elegance and a playful appreciation for sparkle. She adored beautiful shoes and believed wholeheartedly that “more bling is better.” Her style reflected her spirit—bright, confident, and unapologetically joyful. She entered every room with poise, and when she smiled, the room changed. She was the spark that started the party, the gracious hostess, the friend who made others feel seen and welcomed.

Deb loved to travel, her dachshund doggies, watching HGTV, and appreciated a good joke. Her laugh was contagious.

To her family, she was everything. A devoted wife to her beloved husband Chris, she was his partner in faith, life, and love. A proud and loving mother to Christina and Anthony, she modeled strength, dignity, humor, and compassion. She taught not only through words but through example, showing what it means to persevere, to serve, to celebrate life, and to love deeply.

Even in her final battle with ALS, Debora demonstrated remarkable grace. Though the disease challenged her body, it never diminished her spirit. Her courage, patience, and unwavering faith continued to inspire all who walked beside her during those difficult months.

Debora was gracious. She was loyal. She was loving. She was strong. She was radiant. She was fun!!! She was unforgettable. She was one of a kind.

She was predeceased by her father Anthony Coulapides, Mother Joan Skipper Coulapides, and brother Kurt Coulapides. She leaves behind her husband Chris; her daughter Christina; her son Anthony; siblings Sandy Leavitt, Stacie Johnson, Brad Coulapides, Chris Coulapides, and many beloved nieces and nephews. Her wide circle of friends includes those from St. John the Divine Greek Orthodox Church, her extended “Navy family” with besties across this country, and neighbors and friends in her community of Green Cove Springs who will carry her memory forward. Though her physical presence is no longer with us, her influence remains in every life she touched, every kindness she offered, every celebration she began, and every sparkle she wore with pride.

Her life was a testament to service, resilience, elegance, and joy. She will be missed beyond measure and remembered with deep gratitude and abiding love.

In lieu of sending flowers, think of Deb whenever you smell a stargazer lily or see a bright pink rose and consider a donation in her memory to the ALS Association https://www.als.org

Αιωνία η μνήμη, May her Memory be Eternal.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 27th at 11:00AM in the Broadus-Raines Chapel. Visitation will begin at 10:00am. The Reverend Dr. Nicholas Louh will be officiating.