James Mitchell Debnam, Sr.
September 4, 1928 – January 31, 2018
ZEBULON – James Mitchell Debnam, Sr. passed away Wednesday evening. A native of Wake County and the son of the late Mallie Thurston Debnam and Mary Mitchell Debnam. After attending Wakelon High School, he was a graduate of Campbell College and Wake Forest College. He proudly served his country in the U. S. Army. He returned to Zebulon and entered into the family hardware business with his brother Wilbur. James retired in 1995 from Debnam Hardware Store and spent his retirement years attending to his grandchildren, enjoying small engine repairs, and working part time at local auto parts stores. He was the first Eagle Scout in Zebulon and served as the scoutmaster for over 20 years. He was a member of Zebulon Baptist Church, a former Sunday school teacher, and deacon.
Survivors are his children Jim Debnam, Jr. (Hilda) of Zebulon, Lynette Debnam Roberts (Dexter) of Charlotte, Cindy Debnam Mallard (Gary) of Zebulon; and grandchildren, Nathan Roberts (Olivia), Kayla Mallard, Cameral Mallard, Laura Mallard; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lillie Ferrell Debnam and his siblings: Elise Marle, Dwite Debnam, and Wilbur Debnam.
Memorials may be made to the Zebulon Baptist Church Building Fund, PO Box 366, Zebulon NC 27597.
The family of James Mitchell Debnam, Sr. wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation to all for the expressions of love, encouragement, and support they have received during his illness and their time of bereavement. Most appreciated are the close friends who regularly visited James and the excellent caregivers at Sunrise- North Hills over the past year.
Funeral service will be held 3:00 pm Saturday at Zebulon Baptist Church with visitation from 1:30-2:45 pm prior to the service and other times at the home of James Debnam, Jr, 9140 Ferrell Road, Zebulon NC. Burial at Gethsemane Memorial Gardens.
Arrangements are with Strickland Funeral Home, 211 W. Third Street, Wendell, NC.
3 Comments
Jim, Cindy, Lynette and Family, may the LORD be with you at this time, and give you comfort and peace.
With sympathy,
Ron & Eileen Fournier
Prayers for the family.
My deepest sympathies for all of Mr. Debnam’s Family. He was my Sunday school teacher at Zebulon Baptist Church over 60+ years ago, and I remember him as a very nice man. My prayers will be for him and his family. Sincere sympathies, Bob Brantley – Greenville,SC
Add Comment