Deborah J. Sykes

Deborah J. Sykes, age 63, of Toledo, died December 6, 2014 following an off and on battle with cancer since 1990.  She was born December 29, 1950 in Royal Oak, MI to the late Walker and Marvis Sykes.  Deborah married Lorenzo Salazar on February 23, 1988 in Sarasota, FL and he lovingly survives.  She is also survived by her beloved daughter, Lauren Salazar. Deborah was a strong and kindhearted woman who was devoted to her family and work.  She put herself through college, receiving degrees from Michigan State and Western Michigan Universities.  She worked as an MSW level social worker for over 30 years, employed with The Listening Ear, SASI, Family Services of Northwest Ohio, and Davids House.  Deborah also worked in private practice with psychiatrists Dr. Pratap Torsekar, and for many years with Dr. Agha Shahid.  She absolutely loved her work and helping people.  Her natural warmth and keen interpersonal skills made her an effective professional therapist and gained her many longtime, loyal friendships. In her free time, Deborah was a voracious reader, a trait she passed on to her daughter.  She was as sharp as a tack and had a terrific sense of humor.  Deborah was a great cook who excelled at making soups and also enjoyed planting hostas and vegetables as well as volunteering her time as an usher at the Village Players Playhouse. She will be remembered for her selflessness as a spouse and mother and for her courage in battling illness.  Deborah never complained or felt sorry for herself, becoming an inspiration to her family and friends. Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., Friday, December 12, 2014 in the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 Sylvania Ave. (west of Corey Rd.), and again from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 13, 2014 where a sharing of memories service will follow at 11:00 a.m.  Interment will be private. The family would like to give special thanks to Michael and Maureen, Connie, Bill and Marlene, and Charlie for their continued support. Memorials are suggested to Toledo Public Libraries.