June 14, 2025, 72, Goldsboro —
Deborah Jean Chunn, affectionately known as Debbie, passed away suddenly at her home on Saturday, June 14, 2025. Born in Reidsville, North Carolina, on April 4, 1953, Debbie was the daughter of Annie Jean Britt Cotton and the late Buck Cotton, Jr.
A proud member of the Reidsville High School Class of 1972, Debbie went on to serve her country with honor in the United States Air Force. She dedicated over two decades to military service as a Structural Repair Specialist, retiring with distinction on August 31, 1996, at the rank of Master Sergeant.
Following her retirement, Debbie’s passion for learning continued. She earned three associate degrees from Wayne Community College in Goldsboro, further exemplifying her lifelong pursuit of knowledge and growth.
Debbie faced life’s challenges with quiet strength and unwavering resolve. She battled breast cancer with courage, dignity, and grace—never allowing it to define her. Even in the midst of treatments and setbacks, she remained a source of comfort and encouragement to those around her, determined to live each day with purpose and positivity.
She was a woman of deep values—kindness, generosity, loyalty, and unwavering friendship shaped her every interaction. Debbie had a great love for bees, spending countless hours learning and caring for her hives. Her passion for protecting and preserving bees reflected her nurturing spirit and her deep appreciation for nature’s interconnectedness.
Debbie was known for her giving heart and her remarkable ability to make others feel seen and valued. When she did something for someone, she did it wholeheartedly—always going above and beyond, offering not just help, but love.
Left to cherish her memory are her beloved mother, Annie Jean “Tincey” Cotton; her devoted husband of nearly 45 years, Robert Chunn; her sister, Donna C. Mills; and sister-in-law, Mary Cordell. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members whom she deeply cherished.
Debbie was preceded in death by her father, Buck Cotton, Jr., and her brother-in-law, Wayne Mills.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home, followed by a service to celebrate Debbie’s life at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel, with Rev. Gabe Mitchell officiating. Interment will follow at the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Debbie’s honor to the Masonic Home for Children, P.O. Box 820, Oxford, NC 27565.
Arrangements are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
