Deborah Baker Shokes

Deborah Baker Shokes, 73, of Summerville, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by the love of her family, on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.

Born on October 18, 1952, in Florence, South Carolina, Deborah was the beloved daughter of the late Virgil Ivan Baker, Sr. and Emma Kelly Baker, and the cherished sister of Virgil Ivan Baker, Jr.

Deborah was a woman of deep faith, compassion, and service. Throughout her career, she devoted herself to several nonprofit ministries, faithfully serving organizations including Christian Friends of Israel–USA, Vision for Israel–USA, where she served as U.S. Director, and Derek Prince Ministries–USA. Her life's work reflected her unwavering commitment to helping others and sharing hope through her faith.

A graduate of Winthrop College, Deborah earned a bachelor's degree in English. She possessed a lifelong passion for writing, using her gift with words to encourage, inspire, and uplift those around her. Whether through her professional work, personal correspondence, or everyday conversations, Deborah had a remarkable ability to make others feel valued, heard, and loved.

Above all, Deborah treasured her family. She is lovingly survived by her sons, Kevin C. Shokes and Brent M. Shokes and his wife, Shellie Shokes. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Brennen Shokes of Summerville, South Carolina; Kaitlynn Andrews and her husband, Jeffrey Andrews, of Elizabethtown, Kentucky; Hailey Claus and her husband, James Claus, of Norwich, Connecticut; and Jared Briley of Elizabethtown, Kentucky. Deborah was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, Weston Andrews and Charlie Andrews of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, and Niklas Claus of Norwich, Connecticut, each of whom brought immense joy to her life.

Deborah's greatest legacy was not only in the ministries she served or the words she wrote, but in the love she shared so freely. She was known for her gentle spirit, generous heart, unwavering kindness, and steadfast faith. She touched countless lives through acts of compassion, encouragement, and friendship. Her family and friends will forever remember her warm smile, thoughtful nature, and the grace with which she lived her life.

Though she will be deeply missed, Deborah leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the many lives she touched throughout her journey.

A Graveside Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Deborah's memory to Christian Friends of Israel–USA by emailing [email protected].

"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."— Matthew 28:20