Debra Lynn Waller

Debra “Debby” Lynn Waller, 70, passed away December 26, 2025.

A native of Beaufort, SC, she lived in Athens for the last forty years, having moved from Elberton. She was a daughter of the late Wiley Joe and Helen Irene Boney.

John 16:22 So with you: Now is your time of grief but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.

Debby earned a Bachelor of Science in Education, Bachelor of Science in Home Economics, and a Master of Education degree from The University of Georgia. She also earned an Educational Specialist in Educational Administration and Supervision from Lincoln Memorial University.

She was a member of Kappa Delta Epsilon and the Education Honor Society at The University of Georgia.

Debby retired after twenty-five years as a teacher for Barrow County School System and was a member of Oconee Presbyterian Church.

Debby was an incredible, beautiful, courageous woman who loved whole heartedly. She loved to travel. She especially loved the beach and National Parks. She loved to paint, read, run, and loved animals. Debby looked forward to her weeks as a “professional” cowgirl at her favorite ranch in Montana. Most of all she loved her family. She will be missed greatly, but she will never be forgotten, and she’ll always be loved.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Thomas Cotton Gin, 3783 Greensboro Hwy, Watkinsville, GA 30677.

Survivors include her husband of forty-five years, Rick Waller; children, Reid Waller (Catherine) of Athens, GA, Evan Waller of Raleigh, NC and Cora Waller of Savannah, GA; sisters, Pam (Jerry) Dear of Kansas City, MO, and Valerie (Michael) Wimberley of Longmont, CO; grandchildren, Daly Waller, Rylan Waller, Hayes Waller and Matthew Waller.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to C.A.R.T. (Coins for Alzheimer’s Research Trust www.cartfund.org). Donate via VENMO through Oconee Rotary @ Oconee-Rotary CART Fund by-laws require that 100% of all donated funds go directly to Alzheimer’s research.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com