Deborah Mixon Upchurch

October 24, 1947 - October 23, 2023

Suwanee, Georgia - Deborah Mixon Upchurch, age 75, of Suwanee, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 23, after a courageous battle with Leukemia. She was born on October 24, 1947 in Columbus, Georgia to the late Horace Preston Mixon, Sr and Syble Bacon Mixon. She is also preceded in death by her brother Horace Mixon, Jr. She is survived by her beloved husband of 55 years, Robert Charles Upchurch, daughter, Robin Burkhalter (Rick Burkhalter) son, Robert Upchurch (Sheli Upchurch), granddaughters Anna West (Bradley West), Sarah Kate Gautier (Sam Gautier), Ally Wilkins (Jackson Wilkens), Ella Upchurch, grandson Cole Upchurch, great-grandson Richie West, sisters Sue Brown, Vicki Cone (Howell Cone), sister-in-law Jeanne Mixon, eight nieces and nephews and seven great nieces and nephews. Debbie graduated from Jordan High School in Columbus, Georgia and received her associates degree from Columbus College, her undergraduate degree from Georgia State University and her Masters degree in early childhood education from Mercer University. She taught kindergarten for more than 30 years earning "Teacher of the Year" in Dekalb County. She was an officer of Alpha Delta Kappa teaching sorority. She was a member at The Vine Community Church in Cumming, Georgia, where she served on the hospitality team and also volunteered for countless organizations throughout Atlanta. She loved the children in her classroom, the beach and Auburn football. She loved, served and celebrated her family with excellence.

A celebration of life service will be held at The Vine Community Church, 4655 Bethelview Road, Cumming, GA 30040, on October 26. Visitation at 2 pm, with service to follow at 3:30 pm

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of Debbie's favorite ministries, Vijiji Home of Light orphanage in Kenya, Africa. Checks can be made out to Vijiji Projects USA and mailed to The Vine at the address above. In addition, the family asks all to consider donating blood platelets at Atlanta Blood Services 404-459-8744.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Columbus Ledger-Enquirer on Oct. 26, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Deborah Upchurch

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17 Entries

Dorian Strozier

January 29, 2025

O Ms. Upchurch. I have thought of you so often throughout my life. You were my Sisters Kindergarten teacher and also mine at Clifton Elementary. My sister remembers when she had you and my mom brought me up to the school and I was a newborn and your face lit up with joy " O Maya you have a beautiful little sister to keep you company now" And you held me so long as you told my mom how much of a joy my sister was in your class. Fast forward I had the pleasure of having you for Kindergarten. Never a dull moment and you loved on us like we were on your own kids. The letter people, the play kitchen in the back of the class room, and making us green eggs and ham. I remember you color coordinated all of your shoes to your outfits. I would say I know I would have a blast if we could spend the night at your house. I cherished every moment I had with you. You were the best ever!!. Loved us not only taught us. Love You from Dorian and Maya Strozier . 1991 and 1985 classes. Praying for your family as you were one of the most special and precious humans on earth.

Bill Abrahamson Jr

October 28, 2023

Remembering all of the fun tailgating at Auburn football games. Always smiling. Prayers going out to the family.

Angela D king

October 27, 2023

Heartfelt Condolences Arrangement- BASKET INCLUDED

Laurel Springs Golf Club

Sent Flowers

Nancy (Clark) Allen and Doyle

October 26, 2023

We were so sorry to learn of Debbie's death. We remember her fondly from high school. She was friendly and smiled a lot.

Sarah Crabtree

October 25, 2023

My Aunt Debbie loved us all so well - she showed her love in many different and sweet ways. She was always so much fun and always so generous. I am forever marked by her life and how she loved our family. I love you always, Debbie

Todd Burkhalter

Sent Flowers

Pearl Williams

Sent Flowers

Kenneth O´Shields

October 25, 2023

The most popular girl in our class of 656 graduates. Sweetest girl ever. Loved by so many.

Doris Burch, Jr. (Junior)

October 25, 2023

I will always remember Debbie as a kind girl, always happy and would light up a room when she came in. Please accept condolences from Vickie Holland Burch and Junior Burch. Our prayers are for comfort to all the family and for all wonderful memories to pull from during this time. GOD bless.

Brenda (Duncan) Phillips

October 25, 2023

We are so sorry for your loss. Debbie was an inspiration to us all, as she always had a smile and a kind word for everyone. I always looked up to her in high school. My prayer is that Jesus will wrap His arms around your family and give you His peace during this most difficult time.

Eternal Friendship Remembrance Bouquet - VASE INCLUDED

Sonny and Jo Ann Blount

Sent Flowers

Pam Byers Rainey

October 25, 2023

As a fellow classmate, I am saddened to learn of your Wife and Mother´s passing. Her obituary is telling of her love for her family and out-reached hand for children and all her community. May the God of all Peace, comfort your hearts in the days to come.

Dresden Elementary (Angela King)

October 25, 2023

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Imogene Harbour

October 24, 2023

Heaven has gained a sweet angel.

Richard and Anne Herman

October 24, 2023

The world, and we, lost a wonderful friend. Debbie was a delightful person, and a tireless worker for good. We will all miss her. Condolences to her wonderful family whom she loved dearly.

Staff of Northside Chapel Funeral Directors, Inc.

October 25, 2023

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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