Debra O'Neal Rosebud

WADESBORO - Blessed is the man who remain steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

Debra O’Neal Rosebud, daughter of Emma Yvonne Rosebud and the late I V “Shot” Rosebud, was affectionately known as “Gal” by her family and “Bud” or “Rosebud” by her many friends. She was born on November 21, 1957, in Wadesboro, NC, and received her crown of life on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Atrium Health Union in Monroe, NC.

She proudly graduated from Bowman Senior High School, Class of 1976. Debra furthered her education at Kings College in Charlotte, NC. She later earned an Associate’s Degree from Anson Technical College in Polkton, NC, and a Bachelor’s Degree from Barber-Scotia College in Concord, NC.

“Serve the Lord your God with all thy heart and with all thy soul.” Deuteronomy 10:12

Debra accepted Christ as her personal savior and was a devoted Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church member. She was faithful to God and the church, serving as a dedicated and loyal trustee. Even as her health declined, she continued to provide the church bulletins every Sunday and support all church activities. She transformed her church-given position into a spirit-driven passion, founding Family and Friends Day, the Black History Program, the Easter Hunt, the Juneteenth Program, the Fall Festival, Veteran’s Day Recognition, and the Breast Cancer Awareness Observance Service. Debra believed that by serving His people, she was serving Him.

Her professional career began with the Anson County Government and The Anson Record. Later, she joined the staff of Anson Adult Group Home, where she recognized her special God-given gift of working with adults who needed assistance with daily living and socialization.

As her God-given gift for working with children expanded, she joined the Richmond County Schools staff. Later, she became an Exceptional Children’s Educator with Anson County Schools. Even after retiring, she continued to share her gift.

Throughout her career, Debra touched many lives, making a lasting difference and leaving fingerprints that can never be erased.

Debra was an Alpha Pi Chi, Gamma Delta Chapter charter member in Union County. She actively participated in the Birthday Club and was an Executive Board Member of the Faith-Based Center for Hope. Additionally, she was an Executive Committee Member for Feeding the Homeless during Thanksgiving and Christmas, a Back to School Executive Board Committee Member, an Executive Board Member for the Anson Democratic Party, the 1st Secretary/Program Coordinator for Toys for Tots and an affiliate of the Holla Community Center. Debra's community service was extensive and impactful. She embodied the principle of doing all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, without seeking anything in return. Her radiant smile and giving heart left a lasting legacy in every life she touched.

It is a big world out there; it would be a shame not to experience it.

Debra's life was a tapestry of adventures. She had a passion for traveling and immersing herself in the beauty of God's creation. Along her journeys, she forged friendships that lasted a lifetime. Every adventure she embarked on was a dream come true.

She was preceded in death by her father, I V “Shot” Rosebud, two brothers, James Rosebud I and Tommy Chambers, and a sister, Kim Chambers.

Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 1 Thessalonian 4:17

Left to cherish her precious memories are her mother, Emma Yvonne Rosebud of the home; her brother, Lee Edward Rosebud of Wadesboro, NC; sister, Daphne Elaine Carpenter of Greensboro, NC; brother, Mark Anthony Rosebud, of the home; Alec (Her Big Baby) Watson (Adrien) of Columbia, SC and sister-in-law, Michele Melton Rosebud, Monroe, NC. A host of nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins, and loving friends also survive her. She loved and cherished all of her friends. Among her incredibly close friends are Robert Mimms (Kristen) of Morven, NC; Kevin Crowder of Wadesboro, NC; Gary Cash, Cheraw, SC, Wayne Medley, Wadesboro, NC and Betty Ingram of Wadesboro, NC. 

Funeral services will be 2:30PM Sunday, November 3, 2024 at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church.

The family will greet friends from 2:00 PM until 2:30 PM at the church on Sunday and the public viewing will be from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Saturday at Leavitt Funeral Home.