Deborah Kennedy Garner

Deborah "Deb" Kennedy Garner, 71, went to be with Jesus Monday, March 2, 2026, at her home in Seven Lakes, North Carolina.

For 32 years, Deb served as an educator with Moore County Schools. She poured her passion for education into the many children who crossed her doorway. She invested her time and energy into shaping young minds, pushing her students to be better, work harder, and believe in themselves.

Her love for sports carried into her teaching career, where she coached basketball and supported school athletics. But her proudest role was being the biggest fan of her sons, Matthew and Mitchell Garner. She followed them faithfully to every game and school event, cheering from the stands. While her passion for teaching was strong, her love for her boys was stronger.

Her sons later blessed her with grandchildren. She continued to show up for them the same way she had for her boys, at school programs, sporting events, and graduations- steady, proud, and ever-present.

Family and friends knew if you called her for advice, you knew to be ready. She was known for giving straightforward answers with no sugarcoating. Her honesty was firm, sometimes blunt, but always rooted in love and a desire to see others grow.

Many may not have known that Deb was an avid fan of Willie Nelson and Keith Urban. If you were fortunate enough to attend a concert with her, you experienced a different side of Deb, fully in her element, sharing her love of music and enjoying every moment.

She is survived by her sons, Matthew Garner (Tracy) and Mitchell Garner; her sister, Kay Phillips (Butch); and her grandchildren: Mason Garner, Nash Garner, Myles Garner, Reese Hancock, and Ella Fields.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 30 years, James "Jimmy" Garner, and her beloved parents, Lloyd and Vernell Kennedy.

Deb will be missed by her family, friends, and the many students whose lives she influenced. Her legacy is one of resilience, truth, and unwavering support. She told it like it was, stood firm in what she believed, and loved her family with everything she had.

Deb's life will be celebrated with family receiving friends from 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. and funeral service at 2:00 pm on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Robbins First Baptist Church fellowship hall. Burial to follow at Pine Rest Cemetery, Robbins N.C.

Condolences online at pinesfunerals.com