Debra Ann Buckner-Miller, affectionately known as “Debbie,” passed away on Thursday, July 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of strength, truth, and love. A devoted woman in recovery for 35 years, Debbie embraced every moment with intention. Her favorite saying—“A change is always coming”—was more than words; it was her way of life.
She loved making clothes, crafting jewelry, driving around with the music up and shopping for treasures. Her smile could soften a storm and her gift of blue mints and ginger candies found their way into the hands of store clerks, restaurant staff and even the mailman if she saw him out. Debbie didn’t just pass through places—she left joy behind wherever she went.
She was loved by many and she loved just as deeply in return. After losing her beloved husband Bryant—her “Lid”—she carried her grief with grace, managing to smile every day and make it look effortless.
Her lifelong friends Patchanella (aka Pete) and Karen Bullock stood faithfully by her side during her battle with cancer, reflecting the deep roots of love she planted early on. Her “forever cousins” Linda and Tee were more like sister and brother —playmates through thick and thin, even through the occasional cat fight. Ms. Mel, her cherished friend and music teacher, inspired Debbie’s journey toward new purpose and personal growth.
Her heart beat for Jazz, for Aretha Franklin and for her beloved Bryant and Kiki. And though we can’t name every soul she touched, the presence of each person here today speaks volumes. Your being here is a testimony to the impact she made—a woman whose love was powerful, whose truth was piercing, and whose memory will never fade.
A celebration of Debbie’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 31, 2025 in the Chapel of the Major H. Winfield Funeral Home, Steelton with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. and burial in William Howard Day Cemetery.
Friends and family are warmly invited to gather in honor of her laughter, her love and her life well lived.
In tribute to Debbie’s bright spirit, the family respectfully asks that attendees wear something orange—her favorite color—to celebrate her warmth and joy.
Deb will truly be missed! I found my empty anointing oil container and thought about her!!
Always a light to me 💓 you will always think of your Smile God Light
I miss you!
I am in town today to spend time with my sister and I heard of Debbie's passing. I am so sorry to hear that she passed. My sister and I remember fondly so many people that supported our parent's store and our hearts go out to her family for I know she is missed.
I am sending my condolences and prayers to the family of Deb. She was a wonderful person to be around. I met her at work. She started talking to me as if she knew me for years. I use to see her different church events and she wouldn't stop until she spoke to me with that Beautiful smile on her face. I really will miss her.🙏🏾🙏🏾💕💕
Sending prayers, condolences and hugs to the family for the Cobb family. One of the sweetest people I knew.. RIP Beautiful
I'm sending my condolences to the family I am going to miss Debbie presence and kind words
Until we meet again, Rest in Paradise
Debbie will truly be missed. She had such a beautiful personality, was very loving and caring spirit
You Will Truly Be Truly Missed My 1st Cousin Debra Buckner Miller You Will Always Be Forever In My ❤️ Heart RIPARADISE Cousin.
My Condolence to your family. You will always be Royal Terrace Family for ever. I will miss you dearly. Rest In Peace Debra 💔🙏🏼
My condolences to the family. Debbie was also part of the Royal Terrace family. Her kind spirit resonates with memories of good times growing up in the neighborhood.
She always had a smile, hug and candy. You will be missed. Sleep in peace. Yvette
My heartfelt condolences to the family on the loss of Debbie. She was a very good and close friend. We've known each most of our lives. We walk in recovery together for almost 38 years. We have done ministry together. I can go on and on. but mostly she was a woman of God. When I visited her near her passing, her body was sick but her spirit wasn't. Rest well my very good friend. Job well done. God is pleased with you.
Cousin Deb it was disheartening when I heard of your passing your lovingly soul and presence will be truly missed. My condolences go out to the Buckner siblings. Love y'all family and I will keep y'all in my prayers. 🙏 Cousin Doobie
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mrs. Debra. Somewhere down the family line we share Cousins. Years ago, I met her while we attended RTSM in Harrisburg, PA. We worked together in the Horn of Plenty Ministry, getting bread to our Community. She was in my Computer Class, I served as her Teacher. Mrs. Debra, could always been seen with a smile.
May you rest well!
My deepest condolences to my Buckner family. Deb has been a great sister/friend since I was a little girl. I will miss our long conversation on the phone. Or you showing up at my events. I'll miss your intelligent apologies on life that also taught me many things. My heart is heavy. You will be greatly missed.
I lived across the street from Debra and her family for 15 years. She would call out to me with a big smile, and often a gift of jewelry she made or candy. She was a shining light in the neighborhood. She will be missed there and by everyone who knew her. ❤️🙏
Lil Deb,she and I go back some 40 years , I would call her from time to time.She was and always be my friend and sister. Rest in peace . I'll never forget you . I love you always.
Very good friend met Debbie back in the 70's beautiful young lady.
You will always be with me sis gone but never forgotten our bond will always be
Condolences and Prayers To The Family! May Debbie SIP!
To the family of Deb to my sincere condolences and prayers , KiKi may God continue to comfort you and surround you with loving memories of your auntie 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.