Debra Phillips May was born on July 2, 1954, to Roy Oscar Phillips and Aretta Lyons Phillips in Harriman, Tennessee. She passed away at her home in Kingston, Tennessee, on March 22, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband of over 50 years, Chester May; her parents; and her sister, Marlene Phillips. She was also preceded in death by her dear lifelong friend, Ruth Harris.
She is survived by her son, Darren Chris May (Sherry); her daughter, Crystal Deskins (Carl); granddaughter, Autumn Roberts (Kyle); granddaughter, Amber Schubert (Gage); granddaughter, Aubrie Huff (C.J.); grandchildren, Daniel, Hannah, and John Deskins; and great-grandsons, Dallas and Gunner Schubert. She is also survived by her brother, Charles Phillips (Nanci), and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.
The family especially wants to thank her special friends, Brenda Massey Fawcett and Diane Turpin, for all their love, friendship, and support—through the years, but especially toward the end. The family would also like to thank Amedisys Hospice, particularly her special nurse, Cody, and the aides who took such good care of her. A heartfelt thanks also goes to her special caregiver, Audrey Phillips.
Deb, as most people called her (or Debbie), loved the Lord first and foremost and adored her family, especially her grandbabies and great grandbabies. She was a Registered Nurse (RN) for over 50 years, though she had been retired for quite some time. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother (“Mamaw”), daughter, sister, and friend. She was such a loving person, with a big heart for others. The people and organizations she helped throughout her lifetime are too numerous to name. She was always actively involved in her church when she was younger and more able, often teaching children’s classes, leading VBS, and taking notes for various Bible studies. Children were drawn to her, and she had a special way with them.
A talented artist, she was always very creative in many different areas—painting, drawing, floral arranging, ceramics, and more. She really loved summertime, particularly the beach, and especially all things “flamingo” related. She also loved the color lime green.
Her presence will be greatly missed, leaving gaping holes behind, though they will be filled with lots of love and fond memories. The past few years were filled with many physical and health challenges for both her and her husband, but we are so very thankful that she went peacefully and is no longer in pain and is whole again. Now she is with her heavenly Father, her beloved husband (whom she dearly missed), and all her loved ones who have gone before her. For we do not mourn as those who have no hope—we will see you again one day, Mom. Rest well with Dad—you are dearly loved, always.
The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Kyker Funeral Home of Kingston. Funeral at 1:00 p.m. in the Kyker Chapel with Bishop Tommy Patterson and Reverend Jimmy Russell officiating. Burial in Bethel Cemetery at Fairview. Kyker Funeral Home of Kingston is serving the May Family.