Debra "Debbie" Patton McManus

Debra "Debbie" Ann Patton McManus, 61, known her dedicated and compassionate nature, peacefully transitioned into her eternity at her residence on Thursday evening, March 14, 2024.  A private memorial service will be held at a later date. 

Born on December 20, 1962 to the late Lena Pate Patton and the late William Patton, Debbie led a remarkable life filled with love, laughter, and achievements. Growing up in Louisville, Debbie's early years laid the foundation for the remarkable woman she would become. In 1981, she graduated from Louisville High School before embarking on a journey of academic and professional success. She earned her Associates degree in Nursing from Middle Georgia College in June 1988 and later obtained a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from South University in July 2015. Her thirst for knowledge and relentless pursuit of excellence led her to acquire a Nursing Home Administrator License in July 1996.

Debbie's career was nothing short of extraordinary. She started by working in local retail while obtaining her associate’s degree before transitioning to healthcare. At Gibson Health and Rehab, she dedicated 14 years of service and rose to the esteemed position of Director of Nursing. Her commitment to providing top-notch care saw her join Thomson Manor as Director of Nursing for three years before becoming the Senior Regional Nurse at Ethica, overseeing operations across 13 nursing homes in the Southeast.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Debbie's vibrant personality shone through. She was known for her determination coupled with a kind and gentle spirit. Considerate in all her actions, Debbie's love for her family was unparalleled. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, bringing immense joy and happiness into her life.

In her leisure time, Debbie found solace in various hobbies and interests. A true romantic at heart, she met her soulmate during a chance encounter on a blind date while working at Gibson Health and Rehabilitation Center. Marrying in 2002, their adventurous life together included exhilarating Harley rides and attending events like bike week with fellow enthusiasts. An avid sports fan, they attended NASCAR races at nine different tracks, football stadiums (especially cheering for the SAINTS), and baseball games where she passionately followed BRAVES baseball.  Debbie loved “vacaying” at the beach—she loved all beaches but her favorites were the beaches in Hawaii.

Music also held a special spot in Debbie's heart as she attended over thirty concerts by different artists - with Trace Adkins, that “tall drink of water”, being a standout favorite. Nature provided solace to Debbie as she enjoyed watching hummingbirds at their forever home through the hummingbird feeders she maintained.

Debbie is also preceded in death by her only sibling Mike Patton. Those left to cherish her memories include her adoring husband, Mac McManus; children, Jessica Farrer, Elizabeth Bryant (Kalein), Karen Hazyeett (Chris), and Rebecca Henry; nine cherished grandchildren, Dylan Farrer, Colton Farre, Zoie Bryant, Brayden Bryant, Caden Thigpen, Ethan Thigpen, Adianne Henry, Lillian Henry, and Natalie Henry; along with nieces, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives she touched profoundly.

In 2019, Debbie was diagnosed with ataxia, a degenerative disease of the nervous system for which there is no cure. She kept up a positive attitude and put up a hard-fought battle, eventually succumbing to the devastating effects of this disease.  For this reason, the family respectfully requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the National Ataxia Foundation by sending your check to PO Box 27986, Golden Valley, MN  55427 or online by clicking on the following link:  https://www.ataxia.org/donate/ 

Debra "Debbie" Ann Patton McManus will be fondly remembered for her unwavering love for family, dedication to caring for others, zest for life's adventures, and the kindness she exuded to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her legacy will continue to inspire those whose lives she graced with warmth and compassion.