Deborah Lee Mayhew

Deborah Lee "Debbie" Mayhew, aged 67, passed away peacefully at her home in Davis, CA, on July 28, 2024, after a courageous 13-year battle with early onset frontotemporal dementia. Born on March 19, 1957, in Hawaii, United States, Debbie was a celebrated musician, educator, and writer.

Debbie's early life was steeped in the arts, surrounded by books and music which fueled her passion and later defined her career. She graduated summa cum laude with a BA in Music from the University of California, Davis in June 1978. Then she furthered her education with a Master's in Church Music from Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ in 1982.

Her professional journey included significant roles such as the Minister of Music at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hazelton, PA, and the Director of Music at Westwood United Methodist Church in NJ. Debbie was also an organist and choir director at Temple Beth Or in Washington Township, NJ. Over two decades, she dedicated herself to music, performing in various recitals and teaching both voice and instrumental music. Alongside her musical career, Debbie was a prolific writer, publishing works across various genres including music, poetry, essays, and short stories.

Debbie's personal life was rich with interests and hobbies. She enjoyed walking, bike riding, playing tennis, martial arts, and yoga. A lifelong learner and creator, she dedicated time to writing, composing, and transcribing music, and was particularly fond of playing the organ and piano.

She is survived by her mother, Janet Mayhew; husband, Norbie Kumagai; children, Janet Quiles and James Quiles, and daughter-in-law Pamela Quiles; granddaughter, Esme Quiles; siblings, Stewart Mayhew and Jonathan Mayhew, and sister-in-law Leslie Mayhew. Debbie also leaves behind nieces Julia, Jane, Chris, Sarah Mayhew, Nikea and Kailani Kumagai and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father, Leon Mayhew.

Debbie was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Davis, CA, where her funeral service will be held. The service will be in person and streamed online on August 16, 2024, at 10 AM PST at 615 Elmwood Dr, Davis, CA 95616, with a viewing prior from 8:30 - 9:45 AM PST. Burial will follow at Davis Cemetery at 11:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to "The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration." Donations are tax-deductible and can be made through their website or mailed to 2700 Horizon Drive, Suite 120, King of Prussia, PA 19406.