Deborah Heaton Beemer

Deborah Heaton Beemer, 71, of Charleston, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 11, 2025. Her funeral service will be held Friday, January 17, 2025 at Sans Souci Church in Greenville, SC at 1:30 pm. The family will receive friends beginning one hour prior. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park. Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. West Ashley Chapel.

Deborah was born April 19, 1953 in Greenville, South Carolina, daughter of the late Don Carlos Heaton and Hazel Beatrice Erwin Heaton. She was a proud graduate of Parker High School, always joking that she earned her “PhD”. She was always “daddy’s little girl” and lovingly cared for him at the end of his life. She went to work with the phone company at the age of 16. A dedicated employee, she went from working as a switchboard operator with Southern Bell to becoming a well loved customer service representative for AT&T. She was a devoted member of Sans Souci Baptist Church for many years where she spent countless hours helping share Christ’s love with others. 

Deborah loved people and her home was often filled with family, friends, laughter and fun. She was an excellent cook, especially her deep fried burritos that even got a nod from Paula Deen. She was always up for an adventure and enjoyed many fun trips including traveling to Hawaii, New York City, South Dakota, and San Francisco. Her two favorite places to spend time were the beach and mountains. 

Deborah’s greatest joy in life was being a mother and Grammie. She encouraged her children to follow their dreams and supported them every step of the way. She made sure her grandkids always had dessert and granddogs always had bacon. She bravely battled sickness and chronic pain for many years but continued to shine her beautiful light despite physical limitations. Her story is one of grace, strength, and above all love. She will be greatly missed. 

She is survived by her son, Richard Beemer Jr. (Diana); daughters Laura Wyatt (Ross) and Christy Lyles (Ryan); granddaughter Maria Wyatt; grandsons Isaac Lyles, Levi Wyatt, and Bennett Lyles; brothers Carlos Heaton (Janice) and Mark Heaton (Denise); as well as many extended family members and friends. 

We would like to thank the caregivers at White Oak Manor Charleston and Lutheran Hospice for the wonderful care and love they provided. 

Memorial donations can be made in Deborah's memory to Sans Souci Church online at sanssoucichurch.org/give or by mail to PO Box 3766, Greenville, SC 29608.

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