Dr. Deborah J. Keaton is an Associate Minister who serves as worship leader, preacher, teacher, and gospel singer at Olive Branch. Professionally trained in divinity, ministry, and religious systems management, Reverend Keaton is filled with the everlasting joy of Jesus Christ deep down in her soul. A servant called by God and committed to Christ, she is changing lives in the congregation and community through devotion, praise, education and outreach. Every Thursday, Reverend Keaton leads an early morning prayer call.

As Co-Director of Olive Branch’s Christian Education Ministry, Reverend Keaton administers the church’s religious education programs and activities for adults, youth, and children. These include the church’s annual educational Easter Egg Hunt for children; Education Sunday for children and youth and their teachers; and Vacation Bible School for all ages. In partnership with the church’s Missionary Ministry, the Christian Education Ministry guides the congregation through organized acts of service for individuals in need of support in local and global communities.

Reverend Keaton is known as an advocate for women in her community. A strong supporter of Olive Branch’s Women’s Ministry, she serves as an inspiring facilitator for Women and the Word when called upon. Additionally, in her commitment to outreach, Reverend Keaton serves as Chaplain for the Potomac Valley Section, National Council of Negro Women, Inc., and she actively supports their Senior Committee and their Social Outreach Committee.

As a Stephen Ministry servant, Reverend Keaton provides pastoral and adult nursing home life enrichment care. Also, as a member and Recording Secretary of the Board of Directors of the D.C. Baptist Convention, she documents the organization’s DCBC’s ministry resources, networking opportunities, fellowship and training for it church members.



A native of Boston, Massachusetts, Reverend Keaton is a retired U.S.Air Force veteran (Master Sergeant). She and her husband, Frederick M. Keaton, who is the Co-Leader of Olive Branch’s Strategic Planning Committee, have been married for more than 20 years; they reside in Silver Spring, Maryland. The Keatons have three married daughters, and six grandchildren.