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BORN

1950

DIED

2025

Deborah Brogden Obituary

Deborah Brogden died suddenly and unexpectedly at her home on October 21. She was a lifelong member of Pullen Baptist in Raleigh. Deborah brought her signature spark and whimsy to every occasion. Whether donning a tiara, blowing bubbles at gatherings, or surprising a room with sparklers or confetti, she transformed ordinary moments into joyful memories. Her warmth, humor, and playful spirit were unforgettable, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.

Deborah is preceded in death by her parents, Ann and Joseph Gary, Jr. and her husband, Blackwell Brogden. She is survived by two daughters, Meredith (Brad) Reed and Heather Brooks (Chris Parton); 7 grandchildren, Graham, William, Anna, James, Ailsa, Miles and Connor; and her sister, Pam (Bob) Skillman, and brother Joseph Gary, III.

A celebration of life will be held November 1 at 2 p.m. at Pullen Baptist Memorial, 1801 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27605. And it will be live streamed on the church's website: Pullen.org.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pullen Baptist Memorial. Pullen.org/give.

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

Published by The News & Observer from Oct. 25 to Oct. 26, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Deborah Brogden

Not sure what to say?





Carrie Blattel

December 10, 2025

I'm so lucky to have spent time with Deborah in Durham! My young daughter Camille and I met Deborah by chance at Cocoa Cinnamon a couple years ago. Ever since, we'd get together for crafts or story time or other after school activities. I'm so glad she was able to join my family and friends at Belmont Park for an Easter potluck earlier this year. I only just saw the news of Deborah's passing in the WHHNA newsletter. I'm sorry for your loss, but glad she was able to spread so much joy during her lifetime.

Vickie Martin

November 1, 2025

Deborah remained a dear Pullen friend, even though my husband Dick Evans and I moved to California 26 years ago. We would still get together from time to time when I was on the East Coast or when she was on the West Coast. I feel blessed to have had her in my life and cherish the many fond memories of our times together. Condolences to Deborah´s family, to her spiritual community at Pullen, and to her many friends.

Lib Tuten

November 1, 2025

Deborah serving tea in her Teardrop.
I have been friends with Deborah since we both worked at Wake County Social Services in the 70s.
I will miss her friendship. She "seized the day" and I was blessed to be included in some of those moments. Lib Tuten

Maggie Stewart

November 1, 2025

Deborah was the life of the party! Good hearted, generous, and funny.

Christa Elaine Wood

November 1, 2025

Meredith,
I am so sad to hear of your Mother’s passing. Although I did not have the opportunity to know Deborah, I am so blessed to know her beautiful daughter. I pray you and your whole family find an abundance of grace, comfort, and peace during this difficult time.

Clear Skies Bouquet

Christa Elaine, Lucas, Elayna, and Elijah Wood

Sent Flowers

Robb Epps

October 31, 2025

So sorry to hear about her passing. All the best to the family in their time of loss.

Kathy Widenhouse

October 31, 2025

Deborah was open minded and upbeat and loved her family and sharing stories about them . She was generous and welcoming and great with people. Her personality was just right for social work and teaching . I will miss her astute advice on being a grandma and mother in law .

Jeri McClenaghan-Ihde

October 31, 2025

Deborah was my adventure friend while living in Durham. We had lovely days exploring art and shopping in the Triangle. Her interest and joy in all things...bright colors, wonderful hats, teaching kids to drive, bubbles, sitting around the fire, and art, her own and all other art that is made a shared. Look out your window, find an item of beauty and think of your/our friend Deborah.

Elizabeth Norval

October 29, 2025

I enjoyed Deborah`s company tremendously. I will be forever grateful for the time I spent in her home in Asheville.

Together about high school age.

Susannah Rose

October 29, 2025

I have known Deborah since we were about 12. What keeps coming to mind is a haiku that she loved and had posted in her room as we were growing up together. I think it goes like this: When I went out to gather violets in the mountains, I enjoyed myself so much I stayed all night. Deborah knew how to enjoy and savor things and get into the spirit of them. I am grateful to her for helping me through a difficult childhood and for steady friendship for years thereafter.

Sarah Almblad

October 28, 2025

Time spent with Deborah at Pullen was limited but memorable. She was a wonderful human being.

Rustic Wildflower - A Florist Original

The Carroll´s

Sent Flowers

Alan Eakes

October 27, 2025

Will see you again one day

Bill Birmingham

October 26, 2025

We will all miss Deborah as she was always fun to be around and everyone loved her.

Steve Gurganus

October 25, 2025

So sorry, and startled, to hear of Deborah's passing. Will miss seeing her at Pullen. My deepest condolences.

Susan G Hodge

October 25, 2025

Dear Meredith and Heather, I worked with Deborah and we were active in Singles Unlimited. I remember we went to the Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Rialto. We had many friends in common over the years. I am sad for your loss. Cherish your memories.

Showing 1 - 17 of 17 results

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Memorial Events
for Deborah Brogden

Nov

1

Celebration of Life

2:00 p.m.

Pullen Baptist

1801 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC

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