On Sunday, June 6, 2010 our beloved Deborah M. Clyburn transitioned from earth to Heaven unexpectedly. Deborah was born in Winston-Salem, NC on December 4, 1954 to Arlis and Melisande Murray, Jr. She was a 1973 graduate of North Forsyth High School. She accepted Jesus Christ and was baptized at an early age. She met and married the love of her life, her "sweet thang", Reverend James R. Clyburn, Sr. on June 24, 1972. After graduating from high school, Deborah began a wonderful life as a homemaker and mother.
Deborah began her work experience at Four Seasons Restaurant, and then at Shoney's Restaurant. She was later hired as an employee of RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company where she worked for 32 years until her retirement in February 2010.
Deborah became a member of Red Bank Baptist Church in 1968. Throughout her years, she has worked tirelessly in the business of kingdom building. She has served in many capacities over the years from Sunday School Teacher to the Senior Choir. Her melodious voice can still be heard singing He's My King, You Can't Hide, or Precious Lord. She was actively serving as a dedicated member of the Deaconess Ministry, the Senior Choir, and Sunday School Class 1. The greatest attributes of Deborah were observed as her role of First Lady of Red Bank, where she has served with distinction for the past 25 years. She absolutely broke the mold. It was nothing to see her cooking, washing dishes, sweeping, or cleaning. When people would tell her you shouldn't be doing that, she would simply reply that I am a servant. She reminded all that the greatest of you would be the greatest servant of you. There was no task too small or too great for her to do. She led by example. There was never any fanfare or praise wanted or needed. She supported her Church, husband, family, and friends with humility, kindness, and love. Deborah has represented Red Bank with humility, class, love, and honor. When speaking of her, all that need be said is that Deborah loved well.
Preceding Deborah in death were her parents, Arlis and Melisande Murray; her brother, Arlis Murray, III; and first grandchild, Maia Janelle Campbell.
Deborah leaves to love and cherish her memories her loving husband of 38 years, Rev. James R. Clyburn, Sr.; two children, Janet (Duone) Campbell of Mocksville, NC and Rev. James R. (Jondrea) Clyburn, Jr. of Winston-Salem, NC; four grandchildren, JaNai Campbell, Duone Campbell, II, James Alexander Clyburn, and Justin Clyburn; special Godson, Juwan Thomas; two brothers-in-law, Mr. John Clyburn, Jr. and Mr. William Clyburn; two sisters-in-law, Mrs. Linda Clyburn and Telma Murray; four aunts, Mrs. Jean Douthit, Mrs. Annette Murray, Mrs. Mary Bethea of Asheville, NC, and Mrs. Carolyn Williams; four uncles, Mr. Lloyd Bethea of Asheville, NC, Mr. James (Mary) Peterson of Junction City, KS, Mr. Jerry Peterson, and Mr. Clifton Peterson both of Winston-Salem, NC; three nieces, Arlisia Murray, Tiffany Clyburn, and Jovanah Graham; three nephews, Dedrick Hatchett, William Clyburn, Jr., and Arlis Murray IV; one devoted cousin, Ms. Barbara Conrad; one adopted niece, Sharlene Parks; the greatest neighbors anyone could have, Sam and Mary Thompson; the most loving Church family you could ever find; and many other relatives, friends, and former co-workers.
Funeral services will be held at 2pm Friday, June 11, 2010 at Red Bank Baptist Church with Reverend Dennis Bishop officiating. Interment will follow in the Red Bank Baptist Church Cemetery. The family visitation will be held from 6pm until 8pm on Thursday, June 10, 2010 at Red Bank Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Red Bank Baptist Church Building Fund.