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.
Deb you will be missed beyond measure. You were such a mentor to so many people and you were instrumental in making sure that we balanced mission over margin. You are dearly loved by all of your employees. I will continue to pray for your family and friends, and all of those that are feeling this deeep loss at this time. God certainly gained an angel this week. We love you. Missy and Your Integrity Family