The Rev. Canon Deborah Dunn, rector of St. Peter's, Santa Maria, and a former deployment officer for the Diocese of Los Angeles, died yesterday, April 19, 2017, at Cottage Hospital, Santa Barbara, after suffering heart failure and complications of a stroke.  She was 65 and had served as rector in Santa Maria since 2007.

Survivors:  husband, the Rev. Michael Cunningham, rector of St. Mary's Lompoc; their daugther and son, Sarah and Simon, and daughter-in-law, Christine, and grandchildren;  Deborah's brother, the Very Rev. William Dunn, vicar of St. Stephans's, Beaumont; and her mother, Ella Lee "Deedee" Dunn; and many friends.

Requiem Eucharist is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Friday, May 5, at St.Mary's Church, 2800 Harris Grade Road, Lompoc.

Deborah and Michael recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary and early in their common life had been active in music and theater, also serving in professional management roles.  Deborah is well remembered for her singing voice, which she regularly used to enhance liturgies and homilies.

Deborah previously served as vicar of St. Thomas Church, Hacienda Heights (1999-2007), as an associate at St. Matthew's, Pacific Palisades (1995-1999), as an assistant at St. Cross, Hermosa Beach (1992-1993), and as an assistant at St. Francis, Palos Verdes Estates (1991-1992).

Deborah was ordained a priest by Bishop Frederick Borsch in 1992.  She was a graduate of the General Theological Seminary and in 1976 earned a bachelor of fine arts degree from the University of Texas.  She was born in Angleton, Texas, in August 1951.

Greatly loved by her parishioners, Deborah was a remarkable pastor and parish leader.  A feature article offering her perspective on ministries shared between the Santa Maria and Lompoc parishes was just published in this week's new edition of The Episcopal News magazine.

Deborah and her family and parishioners had enjoyed a festive Easter celebration, after which she posted on her Facebook page:  "Easter Day was glorious and there were plentiful people and music and food and flowers.  And God was praised and the people were fed and now it's time to rest awhile.  Thanks to all.  Alleluia!"