Debra Sue (DeVaughn) Coker

Debra Sue (DeVaughn) Coker, age 74 of Clanton, Alabama, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026 at Bibb Medical Center Nursing Home in Centreville, Alabama. She was born in Chilton County on October 9, 1951, and was the beloved daughter of the late Sanford DeVaughn and Agnes Golson DeVaughn.

Known lovingly to many as “Debbie,” she devoted much of her life to education, music, and the children whose lives she touched so deeply. Debbie faithfully served for many years as the librarian at Isabella High School, where her gentle spirit, caring heart, and encouraging nature made her a cherished part of the school community. She had a special gift for making children feel welcomed and valued, whether in the quiet corners of the library or seated beside her at the piano bench.

Music was one of Debbie’s greatest passions. She possessed a deep love for the piano and spent more than twenty years both playing and teaching piano lessons to countless students throughout the community. Through her patience and talent, she shared not only music, but confidence, discipline, and joy with those she taught. Her love for children was evident in every aspect of her life, and many will forever remember the kindness and warmth she showed them.

Debbie also had a deep appreciation for art and beauty. Her home reflected her creative spirit, filled with treasured paintings and artwork collected from many different artists over the years. She enjoyed traveling, especially to the beach, where she loved relaxing by the water and browsing outlet stores and local souvenir shops in search of special keepsakes.

Above all else, Debbie’s greatest joy was her family. Nothing brought her more happiness than being “DeeDee” to her beloved grandchildren, whom she adored with all her heart. The love, guidance, and treasured memories she shared with her family will remain a lasting legacy to all who knew her.

She is survived by her sons, Matt (Becky) Coker of Clanton and Josh (Sheena) Coker of Maplesville; her grandchildren, Cam Coker, Ella Kate Coker, Harper Coker, and Finley Coker; her sister, Vicki (Larry) Brown of Montgomery; her brother, Mark DeVaughn of Clanton; along with a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sanford and Agnes DeVaughn.

A memorial service celebrating Debbie’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. from West End Baptist Church with Rev. Barry Kornegay officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

The family respectfully requests no flowers; instead, memorial contributions may be made to the Children’s Department or Music Department of West End Baptist Church in her memory.

“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise.” — Psalm 98:4 (KJV)

Final care and arrangements are entrusted to Ellison Memorial Funeral Home of Clanton, Alabama.