Deborah Elaine Duggan

Deborah “Debbie” Elaine Duggan October 17, 1953 – November 4, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Deborah “Debbie” Elaine Duggan, who passed away on November 4, 2026, at the age of 73. She was born on October 17, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, and graduated from Butler High School. Deborah spent most of her life in Augusta, Georgia, and Arlington, Texas.

Deborah leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and kindness that will be cherished by all who knew her.

Deborah was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her husband, James David Duggan, and her children and grandchildren were the center of her world. She was also a loving daughter to Gladys and Robert “Fred” Helmly. Her family in Texas and Georgia was the cornerstone of her life. She poured her heart into nurturing and supporting them, building bonds that will endure despite her absence.

Deborah enjoyed traveling. Some of her favorite destinations included her hometown of Augusta, Mexican beaches, Las Vegas, Shreveport, and Vicksburg. She and her husband also traveled to Hawaii among other places.

Known for her compassion and unwavering support, Deborah was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of friends and family alike. She loved sewing and often crocheted blankets for new family members. She also made costumes by hand for her children, including a memorable Dorothy costume from The Wizard of Oz.

Deborah found joy in games, reading, watching her favorite game shows, and trying her luck at slot machines. She especially enjoyed playing games with her family, including LRC, Spades, Trivial Pursuit, and Shut the Box. Everyone knew the way to her heart was with a McDonald’s breakfast biscuit and a large Coke.

Her wicked sense of humor, laughter, wisdom, and spirit will live on in the memories of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Deborah was preceded in death by her husband, James David Duggan; her parents, Gladys and Robert “Fred” Helmly; her sisters, Faye Wylds and Barbara Laughlin; her brother-in-law, Charlie Duggan; and her sister-in-law, Eileen Duggan.

She is survived her son, James David Duggan Jr., and his wife, Marissa; by her daughter, Kelly Shehorn, and her husband, Matthew; her granddaughters, Madison Shehorn and Peyton Duggan; her grandsons, Bailey Duggan and Jacob Shehorn; her brother-in-law, Lawton Wylds; her sister-in-law, Melissa Spurrier, and her partner, Isaac Rios; and her brother-in-law, Conner Stevens, and his wife, Celesta.

Services

Visitation will be held Friday, November 20, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wade Funeral Home, 4140 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, TX 76013.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, November 21, at 1:00 p.m. at Wade Funeral Home. Burial will follow at 3:00 p.m.