Debra F Swain

Debra F. Swain, born November 14, 1955, gained her heavenly wings Sunday morning January 5, 2025. 

 Beloved (surviving) family members include: her sister Joan Sorrenti (“Sug”), brother Arman Tunstall, niece Christy Kellam Blakey (children Olivia, Ashton, Preston), nephew Steven Kellam (children Amanda, Anna), cousin Amy Roberts (& Chris), and many aunts and uncles and other extended family members. 

Among the family members gone before are her mother Barbara J Hafey, brother Perry Kellam (“Bud”), sister Robin Tunstall, aunts Hazel Barnard and Frances Arnold (William), uncle Ronald Barnard (Janie), and great-nephew Little Perry Kellam. 

Though not blood-related, Deb had many friends that she considered family, including her “Ya Ya” sisters Yvonne, Pegster, and Judy. 

 Debra was an extremely compassionate, hard-working person who always gave more than she took. She retired as a Manager after 44 years of service with the John S. James Company. She truly devoted herself to those that she loved - particularly her sister, brother, nieces and nephews that brought her great pride and joy!

 Debra loved to laugh, smile, sing, play and watch sports, visit friends and watch NASCAR, travel to the mountains in GA & SC & NC & TN, and cruise the Caribbean with her Ya Ya’s and other cruise “family”. Another thing Debra loved was to shop for a bargain; if she saw a really good sale on something, she would buy it - even if she didn’t need it. We all know, though, that her love and friendship were The Best Bargains, and that she gave them freely to all of us!!

It’s quite fitting that the song “It is Well with My Soul” was her favorite Christian hymn. Her body may not have always been healthy, but Wow, what a beautiful soul she had!! Rest in peace, dearest Deb!

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests remembrances or donations in memory of Debra Swain be made to Alee Shriners. Checks can be mailed to Alee Shriners Morris Slotin Fund, PO Box 14147, Savannah GA 31416. 

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 Quotes from some of her loved ones:

 From niece Christy:

I truly lost My Ride or Die this morning. Debra Swain was a great-aunt to my children but she stepped up to that “Nana” role perfectly. There will always be a part in our hearts that belongs to you Aunt Deb 

 From cousin Amy:

Debra Swain, my first cousin, lovingly referred to me as her "redneck cousin". She's now in heaven. What a family reunion took place this morning. So sad for all of us, but I’m praising God that Debra is healed and whole, better than ever. Her legacy is one to be proud of. Despite many hardships in life and having to be an adult from a very young age, Debra was always joyful despite life giving her many reasons to be bitter, resentful and angry. She always had a smile that brightened the room. She truly had a servant's heart and cared for others. She always put others before herself even to the extreme. A huge part of her legacy is how giving she was to others, caring and putting others above herself. But to me even more amazing is the JOY she always had no matter what, no matter the hardships, hard knocks; no matter what, Debra Swain was joyous. That can only be the joy of the Lord. I will miss you Debra and will always love you and cherish the times we spent together.

 From ya ya Yvonne:

Debra Swain gained her wings today. Her Father brought her home. While we are all heartbroken, we are so thankful her passing was peaceful. Debra was one of the kindest, most selfless people I have ever known. I have been so blessed to have her in my life for over 50 years. Until we meet again my dear friend. .

 From friend Myra:

She was a true friend. We have known each other for over 50 years, worked together over 40, and were even roommates. 

She was kind hearted, loyal, loving, the family champion and a fierce friend. I am comforted knowing she is no longer in pain. Rest in peace, my friend

 From ya ya Pegster:

You could search throughout the earth, and not find a nicer or more caring person than Debra Swain! Even if she was in pain, she would do anything to help you. Whether it’s cutting veggies for your party or cleaning up afterwards, or shopping for you when you weren’t able, or working overtime to get your month-end reporting finished, or filling your pantry to make sure you would never go hungry. Debra loved to shop for a bargain, but her love and friendship were The Bargain that she offered us. Deb, I’m so thankful for having you in my life. And I’m thankful that you are now free from pain! Love you!

 From ya ya Judy:

Debra was my true friend and travel buddy! We were like sisters but we were best known as YAYA’S!!! One of the Best loves of my life!

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Service Information:

There will be a small family viewing at Gamble Funeral Service, 410 Stephenson Ave, Savannah GA 31405 from 11:00-11:45  Wednesday morning January 8, 2025. Immediately afterwards, all friends and family are invited to attend a 12:30 pm graveside service at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, 315 Greenwich Rd, Savannah GA 31404.