Deborah Theresa James

Mrs. Deborah “Debbie” Theresa James, age 70, of Chamblee, Georgia, passed away on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital.

Mrs. James was born in Atlanta, Georgia on July 6, 1955, to the late Benjamin Franklin Deese, Jr. and Willie Mae Astin. She retired from NAPA, where she dedicated many years as an auto parts delivery driver.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Shawn James; her son, Kevin Pugh; and her brothers, Darrell Deese and Thomas Lee III.

Deborah will be remembered for her love of the simple joys in life. She enjoyed watching TV Land, especially her favorite show, The Andy Griffith Show. She was a proud Georgia Bulldogs fan and loved all things red, her favorite color. She especially loved the mountains of Ellijay in the fall and looked forward to apple season each year. She also found great comfort and companionship in her beloved cat, Kit Kat.

She was a loving and devoted grandmother who cherished her family deeply and took great pride in her grandchildren. She was especially proud of her great-grandson, Jude, and loved him dearly.

She is survived by her daughter, Tammy Oestrele; her grandchildren, Tiffany Wilbourn, Brianna Fuller, and Devin Bensley; and her great-grandchildren, Jude Bastedo, Noah Wilbourn, and Preston Wilbourn.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, extended loved ones, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Memorial Park Braselton Funeral, 5257 Hwy 53 Braselton, GA 30517 is in charge of arrangements. Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.

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