Resident of Carmel On January 19, 2025, Debora Frances Embody, affectionately known as Deb, passed away at home on her birthday, after a courageous nine-year battle with cancer.
Deb was an inspiration to all who knew her, facing every challenge with humor, resilience and an unwavering love for those dearest to her.
Born in San Jose, California, to Inez and Raymond Embody, Deb’s journey was one of adventure, artistry, and reinvention. She attended Blackford High School and San Jose City College before embarking on acareer as a flight attendant with United Airlines, where she soared through the skies and embraced her love of travel. But her creative spirit soon led her to a new passion—hair design.
Mastering the prestigious Yosh techniques, she became a highly sought-after stylist and co-founded Headlines Hair Design in Campbell, California in 1976, with her dear friend and business partner, Kathy Picetti. For over 25 years, their salon thrived as a welcoming and innovative space, a true reflection of Deb’s exceptional talent, warm heart, and dedication to her clients, many of whom became lifelong friends. Deb and Kathy also poured their vision and creativity into building a stunning ocean-view home in Carmel, a place that became a cherished retreat filled with warmth, beauty, and the spirit of their friendship.
Beyond her career, Deb’s artistry knew no bounds. She and her beloved partner of 37 years, Liz Stavrinides, shared a love story built on deep devotion, unwavering support, and a shared vision for beauty and creativity.
Together, they transformed houses into homes—meticulously designing and renovating exquisite living spaces that reflected their impeccable taste and boundless imagination.
From Carmel to La Quinta and back again, every place they touched became a sanctuary of warmth and elegance, a testament to their shared passion for design and each other.
Deb is preceded in death by her mother, Inez Rutherford (and stepfather Robert Rutherford), her father, Raymond Embody, and grandmother, Francesca Zublena. She is survived by her devoted partner and love of her life, Liz Stavrinides; her loving sister, Cyndi Embody, and her children, Ocean, River and Kaela, half-sister, Phyllis Bell, and stepsister, Becky Silva; her dear friend Kathy Picetti, and her treasured fur babies, Bear, Enzo and Arlon.
Deb’s vibrant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless creativity left an unforgettable mark on all who knew her. Whether she was crafting stunning hairstyles, transforming houses into sanctuaries, or filling a room with her radiant humor, she embraced life with independence, courage, and an undeniable sense of style.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Nancy Rubin of Pacific Cancer Care for nine years of extraordinary care. Special thanks to Stacy J. Shymansky, MCE, for her compassionate expertise in alternative medicine, whose unwavering support helped extend Deb’s life. Deep appreciation also goes to caregivers Sesi and Nala for their kindness and dedication.
A Funeral Mass will be held at Carmel Mission Basilica on March 4, 2025, at 10:00 AM, followed by a reception at her Carmel Point home. Please RSVP to picetti@comcast.net or call 831-277-6020 by February 24th.
“She did it her way, and the world was better for it.”
To leave remembrances online, visit bit.ly/debembody