Mary Debnam was known best for her gift of cooking; her versatility and skill in making something out of nothing was evident in the meals that she prepared. After her time working at Gravely, she shared this gift with the community by catering events as M.D. Food Service.

Being afforded the pleasure of indulging in her food and confections was one not easily forgotten. Beyond that, Mary was cherished for her warmth, generosity, and the genuine pleasure she found in meeting new people. Her kitchen was a place of connection, where she welcomed friends and strangers alike with open arms and a hearty plate. Mary was born in Tobaccoville, NC on May 12, 1941, to Clarence C. Anthony, Sr. and Mary Scott Anthony and was a graduate of Carver High School. She passed away peacefully on December 13, 2023, at Silas Creek Rehabilitation Center in Winston-Salem, NC. Her love for food and people will be remembered fondly by her family, friends, and the community she nourished.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband William S. Debnam, a union of 62 years.

She is survived by two daughters Robin Warren (Thomas) of Greensboro, NC, and Rhonda Debnam of Durham, NC, daughter-in-law Wanda Debnam of Easley, SC, four grandchildren, Erin Leigh Debnam, Torrian Warren (Erin), Bre'anna Warren and Erika Debnam, sisters Juanita Tatum (Eugene) and Drucilla Pittman (Milton), four great grandchildren, Malachi Debnam, Alyssa Debnam, Parker Ryann, and Nylah Warren, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives. She was also preceded in death by her parents and son Aaron Debnam, brother Clarence C. Anthony (Dora), brother Edward L. Anthony (Evelyn), sister-in-law Ida Seaborn. and brother-in-law Edward Debnam.

The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Silas Creek Rehabilitation Center and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist for their exceptional care, dedication, and kindness shown to Mary, as well as to friends and extended family for their unwavering support and presence. A public viewing will be held Tuesday December 19, 2023, from 1pm until 5pm at Douthit 's. Funeral services will be held Wednesday December 20, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. from Friendship Baptist Church and interment will follow in Piedmont Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at 10:30 a.m. Arrangements are in the care of Douthit Funeral Services.