Ms. Deborah Lee James

Deborah Lee James, born on July 11, 1956, in Wingo, Kentucky, to Bernice and Dick James, passed away on May 29, 2025, at the age of 68. She was preceded in death by several loved ones, including her parents, her sister Cathy James, and her nephew Michael James. Deborah James spent her life running the show in retail, retiring after years as the General Manager at Dress Barn, where she ruled with a fierce work ethic that earned respect from everyone who crossed her path. But don’t let that tough exterior fool you—Deborah had a heart as big as her personality. Her true legacy wasn’t in her job title; it was in the people she loved, especially her son, Tony James. Deborah was a woman of many passions: Lifetime movies, Court TV, and, of course, Cops. But she wasn't just a TV fanatic – she was a force of nature, and if you couldn’t find her shopping with her son or indulging in her favorite shows, you could be sure she was stealing the keys to Tony’s truck. No one, not even her little self, could stop her from climbing in and driving off to wherever her heart led. After all, who says you must ask for permission when you’re Deborah Lee James? She was a master of long, spirited conversations, and she had knowledge on just about everything. She thrived on debate and would stir the pot just to get a rise out of you – because, let’s face it, if no one was arguing with her, she’d consider it a wasted opportunity. Deborah was fiercely devoted to family, and those moments spent together were her finest hours. She had a soft spot for animals, and Prince, her cat, was lucky enough to receive all the cuddles and care she had to give. Cooking, helping others, and making sure everyone around her was well-fed and taken care of was her love language, and she served it up with a side of sass and a dash of humor. She leaves behind her brother, Carl Wagster, of Georgia; her son, Tony James; grandsons Javonte and Jovon James (wife Ginger); great-grandchildren Adien and Gianna James; nephew Matthew James; great-nieces MiQuesha, Ja’Nassa, Jessie, Amelia, and Jazmyne James; and a large circle of friends and extended family who will miss her deeply. Deborah made her mark on this world – no one who knew her could forget her boldness, her love, or the way she lived life on her terms. Rest easy, Deborah. You lived loudly, loved fiercely, and showed all of us that the best way to go through life is unapologetically yourself. In Lieu of flowers, the family request for donations be made to: Cumberland County Animal Service 4704 Corporation Dr. Fayetteville, NC 28306 910-321-6852

Ms. Deborah Lee James

July 11, 1956 - May 29, 2025