Debbie Abshire

Debra “Debbie” P. Abshire 

Debbie Paxton Abshire, 70, of Rocky Mount, Virginia, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, February 13, 2025. She was born on February 3, 1955, in Roanoke, Virginia, to the late Charles Paxton and Ila Burd Paxton. 

A devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and proud great-grandmother, Debbie’s warmth and kindness touched all who knew her. She dedicated her life to her family, creating a home filled with faith, love, laughter, and treasured memories. 

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—spending time with loved ones, caring for her two beloved beagles, Buddy and Daisy, and nurturing her daughters’ love of horses. 

Debbie is survived by her beloved husband of 52 years, J.D. Abshire; her daughters, Beth Anne Deems (Michael), Naomi Prillaman (Marty), and Jessica Gardner (Cabell); her grandchildren, Jesse Deems (Lizzie), Koen Arthur, Abbie Gardner, Aydin Gardner, Kevin Prillaman, Paxton Arthur, Mikey Deems, Anna Gardner, Helen Gardner, Finn Arthur, and Rian Prillaman; and her great-grandchild, JJ Deems. She is also survived by her sister, Anne Kerr; sister-in-law, Yvonne Hodges; and nieces, Jennifer Kerr Bevan (Charlie), Kristen Kerr, Whitney Artutis (Justin), and Celeste Hodges. 

Debbie leaves behind a legacy of love and will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She faced life’s blessings and challenges with unwavering faith and grace. 

“And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” 

— 1 Timothy 3:16 (KJV) 

A visitation with family will be held from 1:00 to 1:45 PM on Tuesday, February 25, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2:00 PM, officiated by Pastor Mark Long. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory, 62 VA Market Place Drive, Rocky Mount, VA 24151.