Bernadetta Marie Debenham

May 26, 1934 – July 20, 2025Bernadetta “Bernie” Debenham, 91, of Canton, Georgia, passed away peacefully on July 20,2025. She was born May 26, 1934, in Wea, Kansas, the second youngest of nine children. Shewas preceded in death by her parents, five brothers, three sisters, her beloved husband of 67years, Cecil Debenham, and her son, Wesley “Wes” Debenham.Bernadetta married Cecil in 1955, and together they built a life centered on family, love, andhard work. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra “Sandy” Hanger (Canton, GA), and twograndchildren, Zachary Hanger (Canton, GA) and Abigayle Hanger (Jacksonville, FL), who werethe joy of her later years.From a young age, Bernadetta was hardworking and determined—graduating high school at just16 and beginning her career at a Kansas City bank soon after. She later worked more than 30years at Morton County Hospital in Elkhart, Kansas, in payroll and accounts payable, where shewas known for her dedication, never missing a payroll and often coming in on her days off tohelp others.Her love for animals began on the Kansas farm where she grew up, and her passion for countrymusic—especially George Jones—brought her countless happy memories with family. Shepassed that love of music on to her daughter, sharing many special moments at George Jones andTammy Wynette concerts.Bernadetta had a gift for making a home filled with warmth, order, and good food. She taught herchildren how to cook, sew, and care for a household, and though money was often tight, she hada way of making sure her family always had enough. Summers with her grandchildren werefilled with country adventures—swimming in stock tanks, riding horses, cooking, singing, andlaughing together.She was also a talented quilter, known for her precision and beautiful handiwork, and lovedhunting for antiques, especially cast iron doorstops. Her sense of humor, kindness, andthoughtfulness touched everyone who knew her—friends, coworkers, caregivers, and familyalike.Above all, Bernadetta was a devoted wife, a loving mother, an adoring grandmother, and acherished friend. To her daughter, she was not only a mother but also a best friend.Among her belongings, a note she had written was found, which reflected her spirit and the wayshe lived her life:"Remember me with smiles & cheersFor that’s the way I’ll remember youIf you remember me with sadness & tearsDon’t remember me at all."Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, carried forward in laughter, music,and the many stories she leaves behind.