Debora Nolen McHenry

Debora Nolen McHenry obituary, Donelson, TN

Debora Nolen McHenry

Debora McHenry Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Spring Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery - Nashville on Feb. 18, 2026.
Debora Ann Nolen McHenry, of Donelson, passed away at home on February 13, 2026 at age 73, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's disease. Born to W.T. and Hellon Nolen in Memphis, Debbie was a 1974 graduate of Middle Tennessee State University, with a degree in elementary education. In her long life of service, Debbie was an outstanding educator, vocalist, actress, clown, artist, minister to young children and senior adults, Navy wife, mother, and grandmother.

During 21 years of service as a Navy wife, Debbie created a home and a life for her family in five states, becoming a vital part of church, school and community and forging lifelong friendships in everyone. She was always willing to lead, and took on the roles of Vacation Bible School Director, Senior Adult Coordinator, Band Booster Club President, and probably her favorite, Grandmother. No one who knew Debbie has ever forgotten her relentless energy and passion for others.

She is survived by John, her husband of 52 years, brother Bill (Beth) Nolen, sons Matt McHenry and Peter (Molly) McHenry, and grandchildren Margaret, Caroline, and Thomas.

Funeral services will be held at Nashville First Baptist, 108 Seventh Avenue South, Nashville TN, 37203, at 2:00 PM on Saturday, February 21st in the sanctuary. Visitation will be held at Spring Hill Funeral Home from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, February 20th, and at the church beginning at 1:00 PM on the 21st.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Alive Hospice via the link https://www.alivehospice.org/get-involved/give/

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

Sign Debora McHenry's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

Spring Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery - Nashville

5110 Gallatin Pike S, Nashville, TN 37216

Make a Donation
in Debora McHenry's name

People and places connected with Debora
How to support Debora's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Debora McHenry's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Debora McHenry's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?