Deborah "Debbie" Lee Brown Bonner
July 10, 1949 ~ April 8, 2026
Born in: Beaufort County, NC
Resided in: Rocky Mount, NC
Rocky Mount – Deborah “Debbie” Lee Brown Bonner, age 76, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. Born in Beaufort County, NC on July 10, 1949, she was the daughter of the late George W. Brown and Frances Marie Harris Brown. She was also preceded in death by her granddaughter, Caroline Bonner Purdum.
Debbie loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She was a member of First United Methodist Church and a former member of Church of the Good Shepherd. Outside of caring for her family, whom she deeply cherished, she served as a volunteer counselor for over 15 years for the Pregnancy Care Center and volunteered for Meals on Wheels. Blessed with a contagious smile and outgoing personality, Debbie never met a stranger and could easily bring a smile to anyone’s face. In her spare time, she loved spending time with her family and friends and enjoyed cooking and crocheting. A devoted and loving wife, mother, “Hamama”, and dearest friend, Debbie will be deeply missed and never forgotten.
Debbie is survived by her husband of 55 years, John Hall Bonner, Sr.; her son, John Hall Bonner, Jr. and wife, Annette; her daughters, Beth Bonner Purdum and husband, Brent, and Kate Bonner Perry and husband, Jonathan; her 9 grandchildren; her 5 great grandchildren; and several extended family members and dearest friends.
A Celebration of Life Service to celebrate Debbie’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM at First United Methodist Church, 100 S. Church Street, Rocky Mount, NC 27804, with Rev. Dr. David Joyner officiating. Visitation with the family will be from 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM prior to the service at First United Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Debbie’s name to Your Choice Resource Center, 400 Sunset Ave, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.
Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.
Services
Celebration of Life: Wednesday, April 15, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
First United Methodist Church
100 South Church Street
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
(252) 977-0400
Visitation: Wednesday, April 15, 2026 1:00 pm - 1:45 pm
First United Methodist Church
100 South Church Street
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
(252) 977-0400
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Deborah "Debbie" Lee Brown Bonner 's name.
Your Choice Resource Center
400 Sunset Ave.
Rocky Mount,
NC
27804
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
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Clark Gun Club.
Love Arnita and the twins 💕
⸻
I was so saddened to hear of Debbie passing.
Though it’s been a long time, I still remember those sweet days at Camp Bryan—
swinging on the porch, laughing without a care, prayers to the family I know she will be missed
We are very sad to hear of Debbie’s passing. She will be greatly missed. Praying for your family.
I am so sorry to hear about Mrs. Bonner’s passing. I have many fond memories of her. All these years later, I still remember how delicious her homemade waffles were. May you all find peace during this time of loss. I offer my sincere condolences.
Such a loss, but what a blessing to have known her.
many years ago. She was so faithful, and such a blessing to our clients and everyone at your Choice Resource Center. Her kind and sweet spirit will always be with us. May you be comforted and strengthen
today and the days to come. Take Care.