Deborah Lynn Wax Holifield

Deborah Lynn Wax Holifield, age fifty-six, went to be with her Lord and Savior on June 30th, 2025. Deborah was born March 21, 1969 to Wallace and Becky Wax of Effingham, formerly of Tuscola. Deborah graduated from Tuscola Community High School with the class of 1987. She earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Children and Family Services, graduating cum laude, from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Deborah lived most of her adult life in Knoxville, Tennessee. She was married for sixteen years. In August of 2001, they welcomed their son, Caleb, into the world. Deborah was a wonderful and intentional mother. Being Caleb’s mom brought her much joy. Caleb James Holifield graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi in 2024. He is a respectful young man, who loves the Lord.

Deborah enjoyed traveling and adventure. In 1986, she traveled with her family to eight European countries. In 2018, her parents blessed her with a trip to Israel, where she was baptized in the River Jordan and walked where Jesus walked. She also visited many of our beautiful states. Deborah enjoyed snow skiing, water skiing, and dancing. Spending days at theme parks with her son filled her heart’s desire for adventure.

Professionally, Deborah took jobs that afforded her maximum time with Caleb. She worked for many years as a preschool and after-school teacher at Cedar Springs Church in Knoxville. As Caleb grew, she started her own business of home cleaning and yard maintenance. Her beauty and charisma opened doors for her to do some modeling for Dollywood, the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge Welcome Center, and local stores. She secured a spot as a dancer for the show ‘Line Dance’ at Dollywood.

As much as she loved family and adventure, her first love was the Lord. Deborah’s journey of faith began in her youth when she asked Jesus to be her Lord and Savior and was baptized in the Holy Spirit. She spent her life growing in the knowledge of the Word of God and sharing the love of Jesus to those around her. Deborah would encourage you, the reader of this obituary, to know and walk with Jesus, the One who knows you best and loves you most.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, July 12th at 3:30 at Edwards Funeral Home, 221 East Main St., in Arcola. Deborah will be laid to rest at Tuscola Township Cemetery during a private interment.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Enduring Freedom Ministries, 304 S. West Street, Shumway, IL 62461 or the charity of your choice. Thank you.