Deborah Selden

Deborah Kay Selden (“Kayd”)

February 28, 1954 – June 28, 2025

Deborah Kay Selden, lovingly known as Kayd, was born on February 28, 1954, in Burlington, North Carolina, passed away suddenly on June 28th, 2025, at the age of 71.

Kayd was the beloved daughter of the late John and Thelma Selden and was preceded in death by her grandmother, Georgia Hicks and her brother, Doug Selden. She is survived by her loving siblings, Randy, David, and Becky, as well as her cherished sister-in-love, Marilyn. Kayd also leaves behind her dearly loved nieces and nephews: Rebekah & Joe, Emily, Phillip & Amy, John, Elizabeth & Jon and Timothy & Shannon, along with12 great nieces and nephews.

A devout Christian woman, Kayd lived her life with grace, compassion, and deep faith. Her belief in God was the foundation of her kind and generous spirit. She lived life on her own terms—a true free soul with a gentle, hippie heart. Kayd embraced simplicity, connection, creativity, and joy wherever she went. She worked in sales with an entrepreneurial drive, always bringing energy, warmth, and meaningful connection to those around her. She had a deep love for nature, especially the mountains, where she felt closest to God. She believed in peace, kindness, and making the world better in both big and small ways.

Twenty-three years ago, she found her home in Apalachicola, Florida, where she became a beloved member of the community. There, she offered her whole heart as a trusted and devoted home and pet sitter, caring for animals with the same tenderness and love she showed her family. She was an active part of her community, and her presence brought joy to both people and pets alike. Kayd didn’t just care for animals, she cherished them.

This is a deeply painful and unexpected loss for her family. We are still in the process of grieving and trying to understand the immense void she leaves behind. All who knew Kayd loved her. Her heart was wide open, and her love touched many. We find peace in knowing that her faith sustained her and that she is now resting in eternal peace with the Lord.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Kayd’s legacy through a donation to an animal welfare organization or simply by showing kindness to someone in need—human or animal. That’s how Kayd lived, and that’s how she’d want to be remembered.

A memorial service celebrating Kayd’s life will be held on Saturday, July 19th at 2P at Trinity Episcopal Church, 79 Sixth Street, Apalachicola, Florida.

All who knew and loved her are welcome.