Debbie Marie James

Debbie graduated from Columbus High School in 1979. She went on to attend Wharton County Junior College where she received her Cosmetology License. After receiving her license, Debbie worked at Padre Island and other various beauty shops around the Corpus Christi area. Debbie had a passion for fashion and made many friends through her work, even befriending and caring for an elderly woman for several years.

In Debbie’s spare time, she enjoyed watching her favorite sports teams play, including the Kansas City Chiefs, or rather Patrick Mahoney, as she thought he was just so cute! She was most notably known for her love of the beach and butterflies. Her family describes Debbie as a sun goddess because she loved to sunbathe and get a deep dark tan. This is how she eventually met her husband, Gary F. James Jr. Debbie and Gary were united in holy matrimony on November 27, 2010, in Columbus, Texas.

Above all, Debbie loved spending time with her family. She took pride in her beloved grandchildren, Vega and Cason. She would often send them gifts in the mail and FaceTime them to watch their reactions; she loved to partake in the joy they felt. Debbie was a selfless person and loved sharing with everyone, especially her husband Gary whom she treasured immensely. Debbie loved and adored her family.

Debbie will be remembered for her bright smile, fearless attitude, and being the life of the party. Her family will reminisce on memories of her sunbathing at the beach and sporting her favorite jewelry adorned with butterflies.

Debbie is reunited with her parents, Henry F. and Margaret Kunz; and her brother, Delbert Kunz. She leaves her memories and legacy to her beloved husband of 13 years, Gary F. James Jr.; son, Charlie Cabanas; daughter-in-law, Heather Cabanas; granddaughter, Vega Buie; and grandson, Cason Cabanas; siblings, James H. (Linda) Kunz, Betty (Gary) Cady, Henry L. Kunz, and Kathleen Weige.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Corpus Christi Medical Center – Bay Area and their nurses and staff for doing all they could to help Debbie while she was under their care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to any Butterfly Conservation or National Park Service in Debbie’s name.

Visitation for Debbie will begin at 5 PM on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Memory Gardens Funeral Home, with a Funeral Celebration to follow at 6 PM. Services will conclude in the Memory Gardens Chapel at 7 PM that same evening.