Rockdale Citizen

Debbie Elder

Mrs. Deborah (Debbie) Elder, age 64 of Conyers, passed away peacefully after a long, courageous battle with cancer Thursday, June 21, 2012 with her family at her side. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dan and Violet Norton and grandmother, Bertie Yaw. She is survived by her loving husband of 43 years, David (Butch) Elder, Jr., Conyers; daughter and son-in-law, Dana and David Hammonds, Loganville; son and daughter-in-law, David and Jennifer Elder, McDonough; son, Daniel Elder, Conyers; grandchildren, Madison, Mallory and Dawson Hammonds; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Sheila and Larry Ricks, Kay and Ronald Maddox, all of Conyers, Beverly and Ray Miller, Loganville; uncles, Ronald Yaw, Maryland, Lionel Yaw, Utah; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Debbie grew up in Milstead and was a registered nurse and teacher. She graduated from Rockdale High School in 1965 and Georgia Baptist College of Nursing in 1968. Debbie was a nursing instructor at DeKalb Tech and retired as an educator with Rockdale County. She was a member of Crossroads United Methodist Church. A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, June 26, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Crossroads United Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. Hannah Garrett-Johnson and Rev. Dr. Steve Powers officiating; there will be a private interment. Family will receive friends Monday, June 25, 2012 from 3 until 5 p.m. and 6 until 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Debbie loved her family and spending time with them. She was a phenomenal cook, enjoyed sports (both playing and watching), reading, and movies. She treated all her friends as if they were family and was like a mother to all her children’s friends. Debbie was a special woman who loved life and touched many through her nursing and teaching. Contributions may be made to Crossroads United Methodist Church, 2460 Highway 138 NE, Conyers, GA 30013. Condolences may be submitted on-line at www.scotward.com. Scot Ward Funeral Services, 699 American Legion Road, Conyers, GA 30012, 770-483-7216.