Dr. Deborah Kiley

Dr. Deborah Jeanne "Mia" Kiley (A Mighty Force of Love and Transformation) Dr. Deborah Jeanne Kiley, affectionately known as “Mia”, passed suddenly yet peacefully in the early hours of Thursday, April 10, leaving behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and boundless compassion. Though she stood at just 5’2”, her presence was towering—guiding countless individuals toward their highest potential, helping them become giants in their own right. Born in Battle Creek, Michigan, Deborah was adopted as an infant by her devoted parents, William and Shirley (Ries) Kiley and their son, Bill of Royal Oak. She carried her Michigan roots with pride, often reflecting fondly on her upbringing. After high school, she ventured to Massachusetts, before pursuing higher education at Boston University, earning both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. Her passion for understanding the human spirit led her to Chicago, where she achieved her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. For decades, Dr. Kiley dedicated herself to the growth of others—first in clinical practice leading partner development at Arthur Andersen in Chicago and then as the founder of, Dr. Deborah Kiley, LLC. A sought-after leadership coach, she traveled coast to coast, mentoring corporate leaders with her signature blend of insight, warmth, and unwavering belief in their potential. Her work was not just a profession but a calling, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of learning from her. In a story as extraordinary as her spirit, Deborah reconnected in 2012, with her long-lost love from 35 years prior. On April 15, 2016, she married Fred Boothman III ("Beau") in a joyful celebration in Mexico. Together, they built a life of love and renewal, purchasing and renovating a home in Plymouth—a testament to their shared vision of beauty and connection. To know Mia was to be touched by grace. Whether as a therapist, coach, neighbor, godmother to Mary McNeil, or devoted daughter to her adopted parents, she radiated an unmatched generosity of spirit. Strangers became friends, friends became family, and all left her presence feeling seen, valued, and inspired. Her beloved Beau, her family, her goddaughter, and the countless lives she uplifted will forever feel the absence of her physical presence. Yet her legacy endures—in every life she transformed, every heart she healed, and every soul she encouraged to rise. The world is undeniably dimmer without her light, but the love she gave remains an eternal beacon. “Though she be but little, she was fierce." — And mighty in love. There are many plans in the works for personal celebrations of her life throughout the various places she frequented and with the people she held so dear. In lieu of flowers it is requested that you consider a donation to one of her favorite charities: * Doctors Without Boarders USA Inc. * CURE Epilepsy (https://www.cureepilepsy.org) Most of all consider extending specific acts of kindness in Deborah’s memory-because to honor Mia is to spread the love she so freely gave. Rest in power, dear Mia. Your work here was nothing short of magnificent.