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A Tribute to My Husband’s Unwavering Support

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Real Estate Agent with Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310 228209

A Tribute to My Husband’s Unwavering Support

 

For more than 30 years, my husband, Ray, has been my rock, my partner and my biggest cheerleader. From the moment we met—when I was his nurse—he has encouraged me in every aspect of my life. His support has never wavered, and because of him, I have been able to build a thriving real estate career while knowing that I always have someone in my corner.

 

When we got married, I never imagined that one day I would leave nursing and step into the fast-paced world of real estate. But after about five or six years, the idea took hold, and Ray was the first to tell me I should go for it. He didn’t just offer words of encouragement—he actively helped me prepare, quizzing me over and over for both my agent exam and my broker exam. He knew how much it meant to me, and he made it his mission to ensure I succeeded.

 

In my first year as a real estate agent, I closed 14 transactions—a strong start, but one that quickly showed us that I was going to need help managing the financial side of things. Without hesitation, Ray stepped up. He took over handling both our personal and business finances, ensuring that I could focus on what I did best: serving my clients. He even found a fantastic CPA and worked hand-in-hand with them to keep everything running smoothly.

 

Beyond the numbers, Ray has been my sounding board in every major business decision. Whether it’s strategizing for a tough negotiation or playing devil’s advocate when I’m determined to ‘win’ a deal, he has a way of spotting the details that matter. He’ll ask, “If I were the buyer or seller, what would make ME pay attention?” And more often than not, his insights make all the difference.

 

His support extends far beyond business. Every year, when we host our annual Humane Society fundraiser at our home, Ray is right there with me—helping plan, organize, and ensure every detail is perfect. He doesn't just support my passion for real estate; he supports my heart’s work, too.

 

Marriage, like business, requires teamwork, and I could not have asked for a better teammate. Ray, you have stood beside me through every challenge, celebrated every win, and believed in me even when I doubted myself. I am forever grateful for your love, wisdom, and unwavering support.

 

Here’s to the best business partner and life partner I could ever ask for! ❤️



Thanks again to Patricia Feager & Lew Corcoran for hosting this month's AR challenge. What wonderful entries this month!

Comments(20)

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Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI
HomeSmart Real Estate - Scottsdale, AZ
Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell

Those husbands. It is good to know we are good for something. Best wishes to the both of you Debe. You are blessed. Jeff

Mar 31, 2025 09:22 PM
Debe Maxwell, CRS

LOL You guys are good for a LOT, Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI! I certainly don't know where I would be without mine! I am indeed, blessed!

Apr 01, 2025 05:30 AM
Lew Corcoran
Better Living Real Estate, LLC - East Bridgewater, MA
Expert guidance. Exceptional results.

Hey Debe Maxwell, CRS! I loved your heartfelt tribute to Ray—it’s so touching to see the power of support in both life and career. Cheers to finding that perfect partner who believes in you every step of the way! 💖

Apr 01, 2025 03:41 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS

We always hope to choose well and I certainly did hit the lottery with my choice - in life & career, Lew Corcoran. And, thank you again for being such an amazing host during the March challenge. You & Patricia truly set the bar!

Apr 01, 2025 05:31 AM
Sham Reddy CRS
Howard Hanna RE Services, Dayton, OH - Dayton, OH
CRS

Love your story Deb!!!

You come a long way Deb!!! Kudos to you from your AR Family!!!

Apr 01, 2025 04:12 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS

Lots of life's changes and boy, I can't imagine the journey without Ray! Thank you so much, Sham Reddy CRS.

Apr 01, 2025 05:32 AM
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Good morning Debe. Your relationship with Ray is beyond what you can describe with words and those who have followed you here in the Rain have followed the journey. Much can be learned from your posts but this morning we are going to honor Ray and make this post a BananaTude feature Congrats! Enjoy your day.

 

Apr 01, 2025 04:40 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS

Yes, there was FAR more to say so, I tried to 'nut-shell' my post! Thank you so much for the kind words and for the feature, Wayne Martin.

Apr 01, 2025 05:33 AM
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Hello Debe - "teamwork" plays a role in countless aspects of everyday life.  It's good to hear of such success stories.   

Apr 01, 2025 05:02 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS

It truly does, Michael Jacobs! I do owe so much of my success to my partner in life, for sure!

Apr 01, 2025 05:34 AM
Kat Palmiotti
eXp Commercial, Referral Divison - Kalispell, MT
Helping your Montana dreams take root

What a wonderful post about Ray. Knowing you have him in your corner makes anything possible.

Apr 01, 2025 05:31 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS

It makes all the difference in the world and does, indeed make the world your oyster, Kat Palmiotti!

Apr 01, 2025 05:53 AM
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

Good morning Debe Maxwell, CRS ,

What a great tribute to your husband! It always makes a difference when you have a strong cheerleader in your corner!

Apr 01, 2025 05:39 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS

Yes, it does indeed, Dorie Dillard Austin TX! I have been truly blessed with an incredibly supportive cheerleader who is always in my corner!

Apr 01, 2025 05:54 AM
Brian England
Ambrose Realty Management LLC - Gilbert, AZ
MBA, GRI, REALTOR® Real Estate in East Valley AZ

Ray is a good man and I enjoy having him as a friend!  He wanted to wager some red snapper on the Arizona vs Duke game, but I would not bite since I knew that Duke was going to beat us, haha.

Apr 01, 2025 06:05 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS

He is a good man, Brian England! You two and that fish - DANG!! 

We are hoping for the big win for Duke. I am always okay if the team that beats us wins the whole thing!!

Apr 01, 2025 09:31 AM
Lawrence "Larry" & Sheila Agranoff. Cell: 631-805-4400
The Top Team @ Charles Rutenberg Realty 255 Executive Dr, Plainview NY 11803 - Plainview, NY
Long Island Condo and Home Specialists

Your tribute was truly moving Debe for Ray. It’s inspiring to see the strength of his unwavering support in your life!

Apr 01, 2025 06:55 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS

He's pretty amazing, Lawrence "Larry" & Sheila Agranoff. Cell: 631-805-4400! I'm truly blessed to have him in my corner in both life and business.

 

Apr 01, 2025 09:32 AM
George Souto
George Souto NMLS #65149 - Middletown, CT
Your Connecticut Mortgage Expert

Debe you are blessed that Ray is there for you not only in word, but in deed as well.  He walks the talk.  ☺️

Apr 01, 2025 08:34 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS

He most certainly does, George Souto - what a wonderful way to put it! 

Apr 01, 2025 09:34 AM
Will Hamm
Hamm Homes - Aurora, CO
"Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"

Hello Debe and Ray and yes meeting both of you, I can see a special connection and Ray is a special guy.  

Apr 01, 2025 10:02 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS

And he thinks YOU are such a special guy - we both do! You were there for him when he was going through some of his most depressing days, Will Hamm. You truly lifted him up and we appreciate you SO much!

Apr 02, 2025 05:32 AM
Aura Alex
Seattle, WA
Retired Real Estate Pro

Hello Debe,

Ray is an incredible part of your life. Your story warmed my heart. Moments like these, and people like you, remind me how precious these connections are. Thank you for your thoughtful post.

Apr 02, 2025 09:35 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS

Oh and thank YOU for your kind words, Aura Alex. I have been blessed with amazing relationships and it all begins with my best friend, soul mate husband. Without his support, I'm not sure I would even have had the confidence to try my hand at this business!! 

Apr 03, 2025 07:18 AM
Kathy Streib
Cypress, TX
Retired Home Stager/Redesign

Debe- you and Ray are the ideal couple!!! What more could you ask for in a partner than someone who is there to encourage, nudge, and support!!!! 

Apr 04, 2025 10:11 AM
Nick Vandekar, 610-203-4543
Realty ONE Group Advocates 484-237-2055 - Downingtown, PA
Selling the Main Line & Chester County

What an absolutely great post. You are so lucky and blessed to have such a partner. I am very happy for you.

Apr 05, 2025 10:54 AM
Anna "Banana" Kruchten
Retired Broker/Owner - Phoenix, AZ
602-380-4886

You are both truly blessed to have each other Debe! Ray is a one in five-million guys with a huge heart and a very smart mind!  No greater gift in my mind to have a partner like Ray!  And I'm sure he feels the same way about you.  True Love 💕

Apr 06, 2025 12:36 PM
Dr. Paula McDonald
Beam & Branch Realty - Granbury, TX
Granbury, TX 936-203-0279

You are indeed blessed. My husband is also my biggest cheerleader.

Apr 09, 2025 05:53 PM
Buzz Mackintosh
Mackintosh REALTORS - Frederick, MD
“Experience, reliable, leadership”

Having a supportive spouse is the key to a successful career and you and Ray are a perfect match.

Apr 10, 2025 09:44 AM
Jeff&Grace Safrin
F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Valparaiso, IN
SpousesSellingHousesTM

My Hubby of 28 years is also my Best Friend and Business Partner!

Beautiful post Debe!

 Thanks for sharing.

Sincerely,

Grace

Apr 19, 2025 03:29 PM
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Thanks, Debe, for posting this very special tribute.

Best wishes for many more years of happiness.

Apr 27, 2025 03:38 AM
Patricia Feager
Flower Mound, TX
Inactive/Semi Retired Real Estate Agent

Hi Debe Maxwell, CRS - It is a blessing to have a spouse who is your rock, confidant, supporter, and the love of your life. Not many people can claim that prize in their marriage. 

May 03, 2025 07:13 AM