Deborah (Debbie) Jane Cone

Deborah Jane Cone, affectionately known as Debbie by those who loved her, passed away on August 15, 2025, at the age of 68 in Birmingham, AL. Born on December 30, 1956, Debbie grew up in Langdale, Alabama, where she graduated from Valley High School before earning her degree at Auburn University.

Debbie's career spanned over three decades at OptiWorld and Lenscrafters in Birmingham, where she was known for her dedication and warmth, making both colleagues and clients feel cared for and respected.

Debbie was a source of joy and laughter, always ready with a witty remark or a quick retort. Her love for her family was profound, and she cherished her friendships deeply. Debbie had a special place in her heart for her cats, whom she adored and considered to be family.

She is survived by her lifelong partner, John Pope; her brothers, Doyle Cone and Robert Sheppard; her sister, Vicki Tapley; her cousins Barbara Ferry, Beth Myers, Karen Richards, Carmen Turnham, Felicia Hollis, and Joel and Adam Johnson. Debbie was preceded in death by her grandparents, Frances Newman, Homer and Essie Ila Cone; her mother, Macie Sheppard; her father, Homer Cone Junior; her brother, Donnie Cone; her sisters, Robbie Perkins and Brenda Tapley, and her aunt, Annie Mae Cone,

A small, private gathering to honor Debbie's life will be held in Valley, Alabama.