With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beautiful mother, Debra Marie Atherton, on July 2, 2026, after a courageous battle with leukemia. Beautiful both inside and out, Debra was the true definition of selflessness. She was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off her back without hesitation and never expect anything in return. Her kindness, strength, and unwavering love touched everyone blessed enough to know her.

Debra was preceded in death by the love of her life and devoted husband, James Atherton, whose passing came exactly six months before hers. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Edwina Branum, and her beloved sister, Patricia Branum Fox.

She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish the love, laughter, and countless memories she gave them. Those left to honor her memory include her brother, Phillip (Tammy) Branum of Greenville, Alabama; her daughter and lifelong partner in crime, Kristy (Nathan) Freeman of Cantonment; her son whom she was so very proud of, Austin (Heather) Woodward of Pace; and her four bonus children: Sherry (Hugh), James (Joyce), Joyce (Mike), and Johnna. She also leaves behind her special sister-in-law, Jan Atherton Mason of Idaho.

Her greatest joy was her family. She was a proud grandmother to five handsome grandsons: Tyler (Lexi) Glass, Cody Glass, TJ Haynes, Jacob Young, and Ryan Freeman; and three beautiful granddaughters, Avah Young, Abby Konecny, and Ashley Atherton.

She was also the proud great-grandmother of Ava, Jax, Daxton Luke, Lainey Jayde, Alina, Jace, Kaylani, and Piper Kinsley, each of whom brought endless joy to her life. She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and her cherished fur babies, Charlee and Emma.

Our mom fought the good fight as a true leukemia warrior. Even while battling her own illness, she lovingly cared for our dad until his passing. Her strength, determination, and faith never wavered. Though our hearts ache from missing her, we find peace knowing she is reunited with Dad, her parents, and her sister. We can only imagine that she and Dad are already searching for the nearest garden center in Heaven, surrounded by the beautiful flowers and plants she loved so dearly.

Her life reflected the words of 2 Timothy 4:7:

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the incredible caregivers who loved and cared for Mom throughout her journey. Thank you to the Woodlands Oncology Infusion Team, Dr. Owera, Meri in PCU, and Joe Sabat and the extraordinary ICU nurses and staff at HCA Florida West Hospital for the compassion, dignity, and exceptional care you provided.

Mom, while we selfishly wish you were still here with us, we know you are finally at peace. Thank you for showing us what unconditional love, strength, grace, and faith look like. You have left footprints on our hearts that time can never erase.

Go rest high on that mountain, Mom. We love you beyond words, and we will miss you every single day. We’ll take it from here.