Deborah Coburn

Debbie Coburn led a remarkable life. She grew up in a large, hard working family. She met her husband Terry when they lived in Phoenix. They rode bikes and adventured with interesting people. When the Coburn's moved to Farmington, Terry built a beautiful home full of light and art. They always had a rescue dog or two. When Dr. Quintana of Animal Haven saw the need for a Horse Rescue, Debbie started FCER 20 years ago.

Since the first horse arrived - Nick from a PMU mare in Canada - there has never been a lull in the demand for the Rescue's help. From the large rescue of the Pasos from Cuba to the rescue of 6 orphan babies they came, were safe and well fed. She fondly took in donkeys and mules - even two llamas once. The mini horses and donkeys arrived and quickly adopted. Then the wild horses or estrays - via the NMLB - found a home with food and fences. All the above were vetted and given a healthy diet. Medication and supplements are administered every day. Debbie loved everyone of these equines and was able to get hundreds of horses adopted. Staff and volunteers share her vision of providing kind care.

She advocated for horses through out the state of NM. She was founder and leader in the NMERA helping Rescues come together with common direction. She was a large voice in acquiring the legislation needed for this to happen. Debbie never said she couldn't take horses from the NMLB and fostered out horses when the main facility was full. She helped other rescues with problem solving and support. Debbie transported equines everywhere in NM either for pick up or delivery once adopted. Her vision of providing a safe haven for horses in peril guided her life.

Besides being a great writer, she was a very good photographer. Debbie composed quarterly newsletters and produced a beautiful calendar with updates about the horses. She also instigated the selling of Christmas Wreaths as a fund-raiser and organized the popular Pillares Canyon trail ride as another. She was multi-talented, extremely intelligent, and a great business and PR woman. She was also very funny. With her generous spirit she helped so many people in so many ways.

For relaxation she and her husband Terry enjoyed arch hunting with NABS and finding ruins and petroglyphs in the canyons with SJC and friends.

She will be missed by all who knew her. She will always be a legend as a Horsewoman of the highest regard in NM.

A memorial service will be held November 19, 2022 at 1:00 pm at Tiger Park in Aztec for the public.