Committal
Debra Clontz Kirby, 71, of Morganton, NC passed away, after a courageous battle with cancer, on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. She was born on September 3, 1954 in Burke County to the late Thomas Nelson Clontz and Elizabeth Jane Annis Clontz. Debra was a member of Arney’s Fairview Global Methodist Church. She first worked as a schoolteacher in Burlington, NC. Later, she became a social worker where she was an advocate for mental health. This is where Debra collaborated with her companion for the need to operate Adult Care Homes.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a niece, Chelsea Marie Parry; former husband, Benny Kirby.
Those left to cherish her memory are a great-niece and great-nephews, Alleigh, Vincent and Wyatt; sister, Janet Clontz Bush; nieces and nephews, Joshua Bush, Jesse Bush and Christopher Clontz; brother, James Michael Clontz; and many cousins.
The family will receive friends from 11am-1pm on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at Sossoman Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will begin at 1pm in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home with Rev. Steve Parker officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to Camp Bow Wow.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Debra Clontz Kirby.
It was an honor to serve with her with NCPL. What an outstanding Lady, advocate and soul who will be missed.
PRAYERS AND CONDOLENCES FOR ALL THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS MAY GOD GIVE ALL COMFORT AND PEACE KNOWING SHES 🙏 WITH THE LORD,NO MORE PAIN& SUFFERINGS LYNN&JUDY ALEXANDER
Debra was a great woman and a great cousin. I always looked up to Debra. She was so smart and intelligent. Debra will be deeply missed. Debra ran many adult care homes and took good care of the clients
Debra was a good woman to have known and I'm glad I had the opportunity too meet her she was a hoot rip debra
Sorry to hear of Debras passing, I'll be praying for the family in this time of need . God Bless All of you...
Debra and I shared a passion for motorcycle riding. We’d get our Harley’s shined up and hit the road every chance we got! It didn’t matter if it was a short day trip, or one of our “we’ll be back in a few days” trips; we loved every second of it! I had the best time of my life! I will forever cherish the many great memories made with my riding buddy “Kirby.” Rest In Peace dear friend💛 “Hoover”
So very sorry for your loss! Debra was a wonderful person! The last time I spoke with her, I told her I was praying for her and her response was, “I’m praying for you”. She is an angel for sure! RIP IN PEACE MY FRIEND! 🙏
Thank you for all the lessons, and taking time to teach me. Thank you for just being you. Your legacy will not ever be for gotten.