Deborah (Parker Briece) Scanlon, 56, died unexpectedly on July 6 while vacationing at Borgo Scopeto Relais near Siena, Italy. She was a recognized national leader in audit, accounting and advisory services for the financial services industry, serving as audit partner and regional industry leader for Springfield, Missouri-based BKD LLP’s (now Austin-based FORVIS LLP) financial services practice. In recent years, Scanlon became a well-known speaker on the topic of women in business and banking. She was fearless—a topic she often addressed when speaking about women promoting themselves in business.
Scanlon served on numerous boards and commissions and was a member of several industry associations, including the Texas Finance Commission, a governor-appointed position; Independent Bankers Association of Texas; Texas Bankers Association; Financial Managers Society; American Bankers Association; Subchapter S Bank Association; American Institute of CPAs, Texas Society of CPAs and Puerto Rico Society of CPAs; and Financial Women in Texas.
Scanlon recently expanded her role at FORVIS to serve as SKY advisory council member, promoting the firm’s diversity and inclusion strategies nationwide. She was passionate about her work and the people she worked with, encouraging and shepherding countless colleagues in her firm into senior leadership and partner roles. She served on the Susan G. Komen board of directors for more than a decade and eventually as board president.
Although she was accomplished professionally, Scanlon cherished her role as the mother of Jack and Draily, wife of Pat and grandmother of Jesse, Easton and Jayce.
“I knew Debbie was loved, but these past few days we’ve been overwhelmed with the love and care so many people have shown to me and my family,” says Pat Scanlon, her husband of 29 years. “The outpouring of messages expressing condolences, admiration and special memories of Debbie has numbered well into the hundreds. It’s truly amazing.”
According to her obituary, “Debbie loved life and living it to the fullest with her husband Pat. From fitness to motorcycles to beach adventures and traveling, she was up for it all. She had a sweet soul and was a driving force—a rare combination in today’s world and one that will be missed.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for memorial contributions in Scanlon’s honor to the Susan G. Komen Houston chapter, 13770 Noel Road, Suite 801889, Dallas, Texas 75380. Include code “TX301” to ensure that donations are sent to the Houston community. Donations may also be made online.
