Debra Hughes Efird

Debra “Debbie” Hughes Efird passed away peacefully on October 28th, 2022 with her loving family by her side. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held on Saturday, November 12th at 1PM at Guilford College United Methodist Church followed by visitation in the fellowship hall.

Born in High Point, NC on January 1, 1953 to Reid and Amanda Elizabeth “Sissie” Hughes, Debbie attended Page High School and resided in Greensboro, NC her entire life. She loved growing up and spending time with her aunts, uncles, and cousins nearby. Often referred to as “Debbie Sue”, some of Debbie’s dearest and closest friends are ones from childhood, and from Guilford College UMC where she was an active member for over 30 years. Debbie was a member of the GCUMC choir, United Methodist Women, and served the needs of others often through her Circle and her gracious spirit. She was creative, a devoted and loyal friend, strong woman of faith who embraced life’s challenges with positivity and grit, and enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and spending it with those she loved.

Debbie had a daughter and son from her first marriage to David Joseph Schlosser, Sr. Their daughter Leslie was born early and lived just 2 days after her birth. Leslie was born on October 28th, and would have been 45 years old the day Debbie passed away. We know they’re reunited together in heaven! Debbie’s son Joseph was the joy of her life. She loved him deeply, and was so proud of the man, son, friend, husband, and father he is. Debbie also cherished her role as Grandmommy to Ashlyn, Madison, and Chase. She loved spending time with them, going on fun adventures, and was blessed to share so many special memories and traditions with them over the years.

Dr. Ira “Ike” Efird and Debbie were happily married for over 25 years. Debbie and Ike met and fell in love while she was working as a dental assistant in his practice. Debbie loved spending time with Ike in their beautiful garden and home on Chapman Street, hosting parties and holiday gatherings together, neighborhood garden club, and especially her daily conversations with Ike over tea.

Debbie was a talented designer, gardener, and florist. She loved decorating their home and others homes during the holidays, especially at Christmas. Debbie could tell you the name of every flower and plant and how to care for it. She was masterful at cutting fresh greens and flowers from the yard and turning it into something spectacular. Debbie was co-founder of Bloemenbinder in 2004, and enjoyed many years creating beautiful floral arrangements for weddings, events, and holidays. Debbie also loved working the High Point furniture market and at Acquisitions Ltd in Raleigh, NC. We’re forever grateful for the love and kindness the Acquisitions family has shown to “Grandmommy” over the years.

In recent years, Debbie was incredibly thankful for her friend David. He brought joy to her life in many ways as a caring friend, dependable companion, and a generous spirit.

Debbie is survived by her son David Joseph Schlosser, Jr., his wife Julie, and their children Ashlyn (15), Madison (15) and Chase (8) of Raleigh, NC; and cousins Sherry Taylor of Asheville, NC, Tommy and Karen Tucker and their family in Atlanta, GA, Johnny Tucker of Reidsville, NC, Donnie Stutts of Greensboro, NC, and Patsy Cockerham of Greensboro, NC.

Floral tributes are welcome, or memorial contributions may be made in Debbie’s memory to Guilford College United Methodist Church, 1205 Fleming Road, Greensboro NC 27410 – www.guilfordcollegeumc.org. Online condolences may be offered at www.haneslineberryfhnorthelm.com.