Debra Prentiss Malia

Debra Malia (Prentiss) Brylla January 10, 1953 – July 3, 2026 Debra Malia (Prentiss) Brylla peacefully passed away at her home in Hurlock, Maryland, on July 3, 2026, at the age of 73. While her family misses her deeply, they find comfort in knowing she has been reunited with the love of her life, James "JC" Ormsby; her parents, George Curtain Prentiss and Bertha Lee (Kozlowski) Prentiss; her brothers, Joseph, David, Kenneth, and George Prentiss; her beloved niece, Kimberly (Prentiss) Martin; and her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in whom she faithfully placed her trust. Debbie's legacy is one of resilience, generosity, humor, and unconditional love. She leaves behind a family who adored her, friends who will miss her dearly, and enough stories and laughter to last a lifetime. A humble servant of Christ, she held steadfastly to her Catholic faith and lived it through kindness and compassion. Debbie's greatest accomplishment was never found in titles or awards—it was her family. Her two children were the center of her world: Christian Shipley and his wife, Syntyche, of Greensboro, Maryland, and Carol (Hanley) Mariani and her husband, Christopher, of Milford, Connecticut. Nothing brought Debbie more joy than being "Grannie." Before long, everyone who knew her affectionately called her by that name. She loved fiercely, encouraged endlessly, and celebrated every milestone of those she loved. She was immensely proud of her ten grandchildren: Katlyn (David) Mowbray, Joseph (Heather) Shipley, Kirsten (Danny) Duncan, Jon, Mas, Mary, Saoirse and Joshua Shipley; and Amelia and Luca Mariani. She was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren—Ayla Voelker; Aria, David, and Alice Mowbray; Toby and Lily Duncan; and Melody, Caleb, and Harmony Shipley—each of whom brought endless smiles to her face. Debbie is also survived by her cherished nieces and nephews and their families: Diana (Prentiss) Burnett, Kenny Prentiss, Robbie Prentiss, Cindy (Prentiss) Simpkins, Tabitha (Prentiss) Gaines, and Nichole (Prentiss) Reeves; and extended families whom she held close to her heart, especially the Hanley family of Kingsville, Maryland, and that of Sheila (Benson) and Jeff Smith of Hurlock, Maryland. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, while her father served in the U.S. Navy, Debbie later grew up in Pasadena, Maryland. She faced the challenges of raising two children as a single mother with remarkable strength, determination, and unwavering love. She built a successful career as a Master Barber, proudly serving her clients for more than 30 years. One of her proudest personal achievements came in 1992 when she earned her GED, fulfilling a lifelong dream and proving that it is never too late to pursue your goals. In 1995, Debbie moved to Vero Beach, Florida, where she met James "JC" Ormsby, her soul mate. Together they shared many happy years filled with love and devoted companionship until his passing. In 2009, Debbie returned to Maryland and settled in Hurlock. A few years later, she moved to Hurlock Meadows, where she formed many friendships. Among the most special was that of her neighbor, Debbie Wilson, whose unwavering companionship, along with the devoted affection of her dog, Little Man, brought Debbie comfort, laughter, and joy each and every day. Debbie truly lived life in full color. She could tell a story like no one else—sometimes a little embellished, often hilarious, but always unforgettable. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome and never met a stranger. Her generous spirit reached far beyond her family. Even while living on a fixed income, she faithfully supported St. Jude Children's Research Hospital because she believed every child deserved hope. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made in Debbie's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Through this gift, her nurturing spirit will continue to touch the lives of children and families for years to come. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 2, at 1:00 p.m. at the American Legion in Hurlock, Maryland. In honor of Debbie's vibrant spirit, guests are encouraged to wear bright colors, florals, or tie-dye. She would much rather be remembered with smiles, laughter, and a splash of color than with tears.

Debra Prentiss Malia

January 10, 1953 - July 3, 2026