Deborah Perkins Schuman's Obituary
Deborah (Debbie) Perkins Schuman, 62, passed away on October 9, 2025, at her home in Germantown, Tennessee, surrounded by her husband, children and grandson. Her kindness and grace touched so many lives during her time on Earth, and she was adored by many in her roles as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.
Debbie is survived by her loving husband, John Gerard Schuman; her four children, Sarah (Chris) Harlan, Rachel (Matt) Harney, Nicholas (Emily) Schuman and Anna Rose Schuman; her grandson, Noah John Harlan; and her five grand-dogs. She is also survived by her sisters, Patricia (Eddy) Hatcher and Judy Thompson; her brother, Johnny Perkins; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and a great-great-niece.
Debbie was born August 14, 1963, in Memphis, Tennessee. After graduating from Overton High School in 1981, she attended the University of Memphis and earned a degree in computer science. After graduation, she moved to Washington, D.C., to work for the National Security Agency, where she met her husband, John, before settling back in Memphis, where she raised her four beloved children. Debbie had a successful 30-year career at FedEx as a computer programmer before retiring in August 2025.
Debbie found joy in running, reading and music. An avid runner, she could often be found running with John on the Greenline in Memphis, Tennessee. Debbie successfully completed seven St. Jude Marathons as a St. Jude Hero and had a passion for supporting the children of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. When she was not running, Debbie could be found reading a book (often under a blanket by a fire) or playing her guitar. Most of all, Debbie loved being surrounded by her family and hosting family gatherings filled with joy, laughter and a lot of food.
In more recent years, Debbie thrived in her role as “Mimi” to her grandson, Noah. Whether it was trips to the Zoo, the Botanic Gardens, or the park, Mimi loved spending time with Noah and showered him with enough love to last a lifetime. Noah also adored his Mimi, including story time and listening to Mimi play “Grandma’s Feather Bed” on the guitar.
Debbie will be remembered for her loving and accepting nature. All who knew her were touched by her compassion and kindness toward others. She lived her life always striving to better the lives of everyone she met. Although quiet in nature, Debbie had a strong and graceful presence that was felt in every room she entered. The love that she spread will be carried forward for generations to come.
There are no words to express the Schuman family’s sincere gratitude for the kindness shown to them over the past few months. The family feels so blessed to be surrounded by such a loving group of family and friends.
A Mass to celebrate Debbie’s life will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, October 13, 2025, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Memphis, Tennessee. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery in Memphis, Tennessee.
Visitation is from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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