With heavy hearts, but with hope found in Jesus Christ, we announce the passing of Deborah “Debbie” Beard, age 73, who entered the presence of her Lord and Savior on July 29, 2026, after a brief illness. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family and close friends. Debbie was a faithful Christian whose quiet strength, unwavering faith, and servant’s heart were evident in every aspect of her life. She was a member of Boones Creek Christian Church. She was reserved, gracious and deeply respectful of others, yet she fiercely loved and protected those entrusted to her. She consistently placed the needs of others before her own, living a life that truly reflected Christ’s love through her humility, kindness, and selfless devotion. Her family was the center of her world. She was the beloved wife of Mike for 51 years, a devoted mother, a protective older sister, and an immensely proud grandmother. Nothing brought her greater joy than being present for her grandchildren. Whether a ballgame, school event, dance recital, or celebration, “Nayno” as they affectionately called her, was always there with constant love and encouragement. Her greatest legacy is the family she loved so faithfully.
Debbie found happiness in life’s simple blessings. She treasured quiet afternoons on her screened-in-porch with a glass of sweet tea, annual trips to the greenhouse to fill her countless flower pots and flower beds, and vacations at Topsail Island, where she found peace sitting beside the ocean. She also enjoyed cheering on her favorite drivers during Nascar races. Debbie was a member of the last graduating class of Boones Creek High School Class of 1971. She was deeply blessed to recently celebrate her 55th class reunion with her fellow classmates and friends.
Debbie’s home was a place of warmth, comfort, and hospitality. She had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome. She was a natural hostess who delighted in opening up her home and heart to family, friends, and anyone who crossed her doorstep. Her gentle spirit, listening ear, and words of encouragement leave a lasting impression to all who knew her. She will be remembered as a loving nurturer, a steadfast protector to those she loved, and a source of comfort and inspiration to everyone blessed to know her. Her life was a beautiful example of quiet faith, unconditional love, and loyal dedication to her family.
Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Jimmy and Charla Hilbert; her beloved nephew, Joshua McKinney; her brother-in-law, Joel McKinney; and her sister-in-law, Sheila Mandt. She is survived by her loving husband, Mike Beard; her daughters, Melanie (Glen) Rogers and Shannon (Andy) Nelson; her five cherished grandchildren, Hayden, Morgan, and Logan Rogers, and Drew and Emily Nelson; her sister, Sandra McKinney; her brothers David Hilbert and Chris Hilbert; her niece Sarah McKinney; loyal and faithful friends, Susie Arnold and Susan Dotson; and many cherished extended family and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.
Celebration of Life services will be conducted 3:00 PM, Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home with Mr. Chris Hilbert and Minister Ben Cole officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00-3:00 PM Saturday prior to the service.
Those wishing to honor Debbie’s memory are invited to make a memorial donation to Boones Creek Christian Church.
Though our hearts ache with her absence, we rejoice in knowing that Debbie has been made whole in the presence of her Savior. The seeds of faith, love, kindness, and hospitality that she planted throughout her life will continue to flourish in the lives of those she loved. “ She fought the good fight, she finished the race, and she kept the faith”
2 Timothy 4:7
Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.dillow-taylor.com
Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, TN 423-753-3821
