Capt. Annamarie "Rea" von Debschitz (USAF Ret.)

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mrs. Annamarie "Rea" von Debschitz, whose life journey came to a peaceful close on July 30, 2024, at the Georgia War Veterans Home in Milledgeville, GA. A funeral service honoring Rea's life will be held in the chapel of Heritage Memorial Funeral Home on August 6, 2024, at 11:00 AM. Friends and family are invited to gather for visitation on Monday, August 5, 2024, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Following the service, she will be entombed at Magnolia Park Cemetery. 

Born on November 20, 1941, in West Grove, PA, Rea became a luminous beacon of kindness and compassion throughout her 82 remarkable years. She started her nursing career in the United States Air Force, embodying the ideals of service and patriotism. She wanted to "see the world, and it got her as far as Mississippi" recounts her sister, Rosie. Rea's vocation was that of a nurse at Houston Medical Center, where she served with unwavering dedication. Her career was graced by significant achievements, including the development of innovative programs that left a lasting impact on the medical community. She was also a founding member of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Warner Robins, Georgia.

In essence, Rea was a gardener of both flora and the human spirit. Her father, a vice-president for Star Roses Conard-Pyle Company, named a hybrid specimen he created, the Annamarie Rose, after her. She had a profound love for cultivating flowers and shrubs. Her artistry in the garden mirrored her nurturing heart. Every holiday season, she brought joy and warmth through her lovingly baked Christmas butter cookies, a cherished tradition that will be fondly remembered.

Rea is preceded in death by her loving parents, George Ohlhus and Margaret Meehan Ohlhus, and her cherished spouse, Hans von Debschitz. Rea's legacy continues through her son, Carl von Debschitz (Agnes), her daughter, Michelle von Debschitz, and her adored grandchildren, Victoria and Gabrielle. She is also survived by her beloved sister, "Rosie" Margaret Rose (Arland) Schulz and dear nephew, George Schulz, and an expansive circle of extended family and friends who were touched by her gentle spirit. The embodiment of kindness, Rea's grace and serenity inspired everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. The tapestry of her life is woven with acts of selflessness and a genuine love for humanity.

Flowers are accepted, however, the family kindly encourages donations be made to Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, 336 Carl Vinson Parkway, Warner Robins, Georgia 31088 or the American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741 in reverence to Rea's enduring spirit and the causes she held dear.

To watch the service, please click HERE. 

Please sign the online guest registry at http://www.heritagemfh.com and leave a personal condolence for the family.

Heritage Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory has the honor of being entrusted with the arrangements.