Debra Louise Athanas, 64, of Topeka, Kansas passed away on January 5th, 2022. She was born to Lawrence Laverne Mathews & Rose Mary (Pierce) Murray on September 18th, 1957 in Concordia, California. Later on, Debra would study Arts & Computer Sciences at Oregon State University in Ashland, Oregon until 1999. In 1992 she married Steven Richard Athanas, in Castleberry Florida. They would go on to have two children; Shenderra Alleece, 28 & Samuel Joshua Athanas, 22.

Ministry was Debra’s life passion, being involved in many different projects, starting with a Ministry Trip to Guatemala in 1984. She participated in ministry with the International House of Prayer in Kansas City from 2000 – 2005. Currently Debra was assisting two villages in Africa. One in Kenya, the other in Tanzania, and a Pastor in India. She helped established two orphanages, three gardens, two farms, three orchards, and one brick business. She was a member of True North Church in Topeka.

Debra was well known for her anointing oils, 30 different types. A bead studio, hosting the largest selection of beads over 1300 different kinds from anywhere in Kansas City to Manhattan. In addition, she made 40 spice blends for Spices of Life all at the farmers market. She & Steven were there for five years and stopped going to spend more time with their family. Debra also had a wedding business where she enjoyed making wedding dresses, floral arrangements, and taking care of wedding arrangements.

She was preceded by her sister Shelly in passing. Survived by Debra is her husband, Steven of 29 years, and two children; Shenderra & Samuel Athanas, both of Topeka. Also survived by Debra are her bothers, James Mathews of New Mexico, and Aaron Christopher Mathews of Pennsylvania. She leaves behind two step brothers, two step sisters, and all their kids.

A Visitation will be held at Penwell-Gabel Midtown, 1321 SW 10th Ave, Topeka on Saturday, January 22nd, from 1:30pm to 2:30pm. A Funeral Service and reception will follow.


To view the livestream of the service, please click below. The stream will start 5 minutes prior to the service.
https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/authorise.php?k=1642725216161265