I first met Debbie in 1997 when we both worked for Gottlieb Financial Services,  which later became Per-Se Technologies and finally, McKesson. We worked in the medical billing field. Our desks were side by side and we formed a kinship. In part due to her artistry and my ability to write (poems). But, initially, because I could make her laugh, and at that time she needed to laugh. Which during the course of the day would cause heads to turn our way. I left McKesson in 2004, but we remained in touch. However, as happens sometimes, over the years, we lost touch. Though I kept a residence in Jacksonville, in 2005 I started working in Spain and most of my time was spent there.  I would think of Debbie from time to time because I commissioned her to do portraits of three family members of mine. How could I look at those wonderful paintings and not think of the wonderul artist, Debanta. She had a nephew, though I can't remember his name at this time, who could sing and I believe play the guitar. She was so proud of him, though Debbie herself had a very nice tonal quality to her voice. She reminded me somewhat of Karen Carpenter. She just didn't have the confidence to sing in front of me. So I just caught a little snippet here and there. Even when she just hummed, I would perk up and try to listen without her noticing.  Her tone was rich with a resonance and depth that was soothing to the ear. I am happy that she moved back to Tampa and spent this time with her family, especially her parents during their time of need. I am also thrilled to know that she found love again with her husband Ron. To her family, friends and husband I send my condolences. May God comfort you all in your grief.

It is hard to believe that this light has gone from us. I think of the warmth, love and care that she radiated to all who knew her.
Debbie was my dear friend for 30 wonderful years .  We prayed, laughed and cried, worked and played together.
She wanted me to learn to make greeting cards as she did, and so, with joy, I did.
Oh, the many I have that she made for me.
We shared a friendship that, sadly, many will never know.
I will be forever thankful that she found such love and happiness with Ron.
Ron, know that my prayers are with you and Deb's family and I will think of her often and love and miss her always.

To Ron, Sisters, family and friends.
My deepest sympathy to all . I counted Debbie as one of my best friends even though I only knew her for about 15 years, much less than many of you.
We met at Labor Camp where our friendship and love of serving our Lord in whatever capacity we could grew.  We ended up traveling to Israel, Turkey and Greece,  and Rome together. And after her marrying Ron , we were all on the Egypt trip together. We had been going to Atlanta Women’s weekend together several years and had plans on attending this October but it wasn’t to be.
I already miss this loving, caring, giving woman who only helped me be a better person and who is now reaping her reward. Rest in peace, my dear  friend . I love you. Until we meet again…

We actually met at Florida College Labor Camp where several of us became friends over the years. This is where we found out about the trip to Israel and as they say, “the rest is history.”

Gideon’s pool. We all had to take off our shoes and soak.

Hezekiah’s tunnel. The water was soo cold but it really felt good after the heat of the day.

The wailing wall in Jerusalem. Our first trip to Israel where I talked Debbie into a latte and missed the bus!

I would often see Debbie when I went to get my hair done at Connie Trubey's house .  I always loved visiting with her.  Debbis was always bubbly and cheerful.  Ron and family I am praying for the Lord to wrap his loving arms around all of you to bring you comfort in the coming days and weeks.  Reflect on the wonderful memories you shared with Debbie and the knowing that she is at home.  I know she will be greatly loved and missed here.  You will see her again one day.

This is a beautiful picture of me, Debbie, and my sister Emma. Words can’t even describe how much we miss her. Debbie is my great aunt, she was such a beautiful soul and lit up every room she entered. Although we miss her deeply here on earth, I know she is with our Lord and out of pain and that brings me a sense of peace. Aunt Debbie has to be one of the bravest and strongest people I know, and she faced every challenge with grace and faith. I strive to live the way that she did, with unwavering faith, courage, and a heart for others. She inspired everyone she met, spreading the love of Christ to so many places and touching countless hearts. Her life was a true reflection of God’s grace, and i can only hope to carry forward even a fraction of the light she brought into this world. Along with her strength and faith, I’ll always cherish the amazing memories we made together, each one a reminder of her love and joy. We love and miss you Aunt debbie. Fly high.

Dane and I are sad to hear about Debbie. I remember well the first day I met her walking into university Church Of Christ. She was so pretty and friendly and we established a great friendship right then.  Of course, she and I shared a great love for my daughter, Kaylan . They had a great bond together by the love of Art.   Well, I haven’t known her as long as so many others, she was one that I always looked forward to seeing when I visited Florida. Her grace and her godliness was ever present. We will miss her so much. I pray that God will grant you, Ron, peace and comfort in the coming days. I pray that he will grant you joy as you remember her and all the things that you both experienced and cherished together.

I was very happy to finally meet Debbie for the first time December 2024 when I joined Debbie and Ron in Honduras. I was so impressed with the great work they had done previously and did that week in Honduras. It is wonderful to know that Debbie helped many Christians in a number of places. It was amazing to see Debbie going on a trip a thousand miles away an an advanced age, and riding throughout Honduras in a van for 6 straight days to help bring the gosple to some 13-14 churches. She will be greatly be missed by all.

When I met Debbie when my cousin Ron Drum came to Ohio to visit family. She was caring and very nice the love and respect her and Ron  was awesome. Fly high Debbie you were a awesome person        Love linda

I can still feel and hear clearly and still see in my mind, your genuine, warm laugh and the warmth of your eyes. Your willingness to engage with people and share the joy you bring is unforgettable.  So much joy our families shared on our last trip together, our best travels together ever. Your ability to understand and fill a need without fanfare was a lesson in love, truth and humility. We became better souls because of you, thank you. We love you very much Debbie and we will miss you with all our hearts.

A beautiful painting Aunt Debbie made of my sister and I❤️

Deb and I have had a 60-year plus friendship! Our parents were friends and her mom and dad sold my mom and dad their home in Valrico.  I actually slept in the same bedroom that Deb slept in when she lived there. We grew up through our teen years together and in our twenties. She even moved in with my husband and I for almost a year until she found a place of her own. My home has always been her home. Even as adults, until she got married again, we had sleepovers, crafted together for hours, watched Hallmark movies and laughed and cried and talked and shared. She was my sister in Christ and my forever friend. She is shared the worst and the best with me almost my whole life and I don't know how I can stand the thought of her gone except to know that she's with our Lord and that gives me more comfort than words. I will miss my friend until I see her again in heaven.  Sincerely, I pray for Ron and Julie and Kim and Kitty, nieces and nephews that she adored and all her friends and brethren that she shared time and space with. Her soprano voice is being lifted high to our God! Love my Deb!

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Deborah Banta Drumm

2 juin 1952 – 9 août 2025

Blount & Curry Funeral Home at Garden of Memories

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