Deborah Harris "Debbie" Phelps

AHOSKIE, NC - Deborah "Debbie" Harris Phelps, age 62, passed away unexpectedly in the early morning hours of Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at her residence. Born on August 18, 1963, in Hertford County, North Carolina, Debbie brought endless joy and warmth into the world through her vibrant spirit and devotion to others. She was the cherished daughter of Faye Cowan Harris and the late Joseph A. Harris.

A dedicated nurse by profession, Debbie devoted her entire career to the care and well-being of her patients, embodying compassion and grace in all she did. Known for her effervescent nature, she was a social butterfly who never met a stranger, always ready with a smile and a kind word.

Debbie found great pleasure in simple joys: she loved shoe shopping, creating decorative seasonal wreaths, and adding new pieces to her jewelry collection. Her favorite color was red, symbolizing her passionate and spirited personality. A collector of turtles, these gentle creatures reflected her gentle and nurturing spirit.

Deeply rooted in her faith, Debbie was a faithful member of Creech Memorial Baptist Church. She cherished singing in the choir, and her love for Jesus shone brightly in every aspect of her life. Her unwavering faith was a beacon of strength to her family and friends.

Debbie shared an extraordinary love with her husband, Dale Phelps, whom she married 41 years ago. Their bond was unbreakable, and they were seldom seen apart, truly soulmates in every sense of the word. Spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren were always top priority to her. Debbie's life was a testament to love, faith, and friendship. She will be dearly missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those whose lives she touched.

Debbie is survived by her devoted husband, Dale Phelps, beloved mother, Faye Harris, adored daughter Lindsey Dale Phelps-Copeland and her husband Herbert, of Colerain, and cherished son, Ethan Phelps of Greenville. She leaves behind her treasured grandchildren, Landon George Phelps, Sadie Elizabeth Copeland, and Norah Rose Copeland. Her sister-in-law, Charlotte Riddick and husband Bart of Fuquay Varina, NC, nieces, Erin Riddick and Alex Riddick Rowe and husband Zach of Raleigh, NC, as well as her great-niece and nephew, Ila Ruth Rowe and Lincoln Riddick Rowe, will also hold her in their hearts forever. Debbie is preceded in death by her father, Joseph A. Harris.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate Debbie's remarkable life on Friday, March 6, 2026, during a visitation from 6:00 - 7:30 PM at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie, NC. A celebration of life will follow on Saturday at 11:00 AM at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie Chapel, officiated by Reverend Gary Medford. A private family burial will take place thereafter.

In remembrance of Debbie's generous spirit, memorial contributions may be made to Creech Memorial Baptist Church, PO Box 764, Ahoskie, NC 27910 or online by clicking here.

Online condolences for Debbie can be expressed at www.garrettsykesfs.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie, NC.