Debra Lee Walker Skluzak passed away in the early morning hours of July 1st, 2023. She was a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother and is missed in more ways than can be expressed. She succumbed to complications stemming from a prolonged battle with cancer. Her passing was marked with the presence of her loving family. She is survived by her devoted husband of 41 years, Jim Skluzak; her brother Graydon Walker Jr and his wife Sandra along with her nieces Marcella, Samantha, and Stephanie; her eldest son Terry and wife Brandy along with grandchildren Kayla, T.J., Brayden, and Brianna; her son Lee and wife Yoko along with grandchildren Nico and Seth; and daughter Kelli and grandson Tilden.
Debbi was born in Norfolk, Virginia to Jane-Ann and Graydon Walker. Her life was defined by a drive and dedication which she brought to all endeavors, first and foremost as a mother to three children. Sacrifice and selfless commitment – whether through encouragement and advice, wisdom and support – were the hallmark of her soul and the foundation of her family.
In her later years, Debbi brought this same compassion, patience, and motivation to the conservation and preservation of the American bald eagle population, and in particular, the Wildlife Center of Virginia. Just as she was to her family, Debbi was a pillar in the community. Under her familiar aliases, CongoWings and Essec, Debbi built a global community centered around eagle conservation, moderating the “Critter Cam” discussion forums, raising funds for the Wildlife Centers of Virginia, and building lifelong friendships.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 7, 2023 at 11:00 at Altmeyer Funeral Home at 929 S. Battlefield Blvd., VA.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Wildlife Centers of Virginia or the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam Foundation in her name.
Debbi was so kind to me, she will always be in my heart especially when I see an Eagle! Huge hugs to all of the family and friends! God bless you all!
To Family and Friends of Debbi- She was an amazing woman and her presence is extremely missed. She was a pillar of her Family and to the Eagle Nation. The tribute video and the Celebration of her life is as beautiful as she is. With love, respect and condolences to All.
My deepest condolences to Debbie’s family and friends. I will miss her presence in the SWFEC chat, but I know she will still be watching over all of us. RIP Debbie. 🦅
Debbi, we in EN/CN are all the richer for your patience and knowledge that you freely shared with all of us. May you soar with the eagles and know that you will always be in our hearts.
So happy to have met Debbie at numerous eagle releases. She will be missed. Condolences to her family
I was the new kid in town back in 1996. Going into 7th grade, I experienced all aspects of being the new kid. The very first family to welcome me into their home was the Skluzaks. Lee and I worked on a handful of group projects together, with the added brotherly-benefits of bugging Kelli. Mama Skluzak was a beacon of warmth, kindness, and unwavering love, leaving an indelible mark on a very shy kid that felt alone and vulnerable. As my kiddos start making new friends in their new schools, I plan on exercising the same open-arms approach of comfort and acceptance. I am so sorry for the loss. Love and prayers for the entire family’s strength through this very tough time.
Debbi, I miss you every time I see an Eagle and when I’m on the Critter Cams or an Eagle Cam. You were a wonderful teacher and friend. Thank you for all the fun and education over the years. I know all our beloved Eagles were waiting for you in Heaven.
Debbi I will miss you. It was such a pleasure to have you as my friend. Fly high my friend and know we all love you.
Debbi, we had already been missing you during season 11 at SWFEC. I hope you know just how much you taught us about wildlife and how we laughed during the student classes that you arranged for us. You calmed us down during the sad times and made us laugh at some really silly things -like when Mom brought the kids toy to the nest and tried to de-fur it.
Thank you, Debbi, for your time and service. You will be missed lady.
If you see Harriet on your journey, tell her I miss her.
I’m sorry! 🙁