Debra Lassiter "Debbie affectionately known as G" Howard

AHOSKIE, NC - Debra Lassiter Howard, affectionately known as Debbie, or for the past 10 years "G", passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at her home in Ahoskie, North Carolina, on Friday, December 19, 2025, following a short battle with cancer. She was 68 years old. Born on July 17, 1957, in Hertford County, North Carolina, Debbie's life was a testament to love, kindness, and dedication to her family, friends, and community.
After a fulfilling career, Debbie retired from the NC Probation Parole department where she served as an administrative assistant for 31 years. Her work exemplified commitment and grace, traits she carried into every aspect of her life.
Debbie devoted much of her time to causes close to her heart, such as participating in Relay For Life, supporting her children and grandchildren at countless ballgames, and engaging actively with the Powellsville Volunteer Fire Department. A true giver, she was known for always being there to help those in need, offering encouragement and support to anyone who crossed her path.
Her love for the beach and mountains mirrored her appreciation for nature's beauty, but nothing captured her heart more than her cherished grandchildren. An avid animal lover, especially fond of dogs, Debbie's warmth extended beyond humans to all creatures great and small.
Family gatherings were enriched by her culinary talent, particularly her famous twelve-layer chocolate cake, which became a beloved tradition. Debbie took immense joy in spreading smiles during Christmas by delivering her cakes to loved ones.
A faithful member of Center Grove Church, her spiritual devotion was profound, yet humble, reflecting the core of her compassionate personality.
Preceded in death by her parents, Weaver and Lois Morris Lassiter, Debbie is survived by her loving husband, Tommy Howard; her children, Neal Howard and wife LeAnn of Murfreesboro, and Casey Howard of Ahoskie; her adored granddaughters, Harper Jean Howard and Skylar Vann Howard; and her sister, Ressie Ray of Ahoskie. She also leaves behind her brother Timmy Wayne Lassiter and his wife Debbie, her nieces Melissa, Cathy, Sherri, and Jennifer, and her cherished adopted daughter Kristin Futrell, her husband Justin, and their son, Reid of Murfreesboro, along with her extensive family and numerous friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.
The visitation will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie, NC. A celebration of life funeral service, officiated by Pastor Greg Hurdle, and Pastor Roger Kiker, will be held Monday, December 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie, NC. Interment will follow at Highland Memorial Gardens in Ahoskie, NC. Serving as pallbearers are Dillon Lowe, Scott Lowe, Woody Lowe, Dakota Jernigan, Zach Walter, Brian Johnson, with Ralph Brinkley and Kent Williams as honorary pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made directly to the Center Grove Baptist Church, 826 Center Grove Road, Ahoskie, NC 27910 or online by clicking here; or directly to the Powellsville Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 142, Powellsville, NC 27967 or online by clicking here.
Online condolences may be offered at www.garrettsykesfs.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie, NC. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Debra "Debbie" affectionately known as "G", please visit our floral store.To make a memorial donation, please visit the donations section of this obituary.