Deborah McCann

Deborah “Debbie” McCann, age 59, passed away at home on Sunday, February 21, 2021 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was a caring and giving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Debbie was preceded in death by her father, James Barney, mother Dorothy “Dottie” Neely, and stepfather, Gene Neely. She is survived by her son, Joseph Dalton, and beloved grandsons, Kaiden, Kenneth, and Emmett. She also leaves behind Kelly McKenzie, her “significant other,” companion, dedicated caregiver, and in her words “love of her life.” In addition to being survived by her brother, Ralph Barney, sisters, Doni Steubing, Mamie Carlson and Julie Nelson, nephews, Alex “Peanut” Steubing, Cody Queen, Kyle Nelson, and Timmy Carlson, and niece Ally Carlson, she also leaves behind Dennis Dalton, Bev Barney, and Michele (Barney) Donnelly. While she experienced many different occupations throughout her life, for the past several years, Debbie worked for Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, where she made many friends. She enjoyed being outdoors and tending to her plants. She was fondly described as a “crazy cat lady.” She leaves behind her cats, Patches, Smiley, Louise, and Frisky, and was predeceased by at least 20 cats. Debbie loved spending time in the kitchen to make special treats for everyone at Christmas. She was a collector of the “original boxes” in which items came (hairdryer, perfume, mugs, etc.), so she could pack up and move in an orderly fashion. Debbie was a perfectionist, at work and at home, always making sure everything was done right. She was a dependable person, loyal and compassionate friend, and always putting others first. During her battle, she was concerned more about everyone else rather than herself. At Debbie’s request, she will not have a memorial service. A Celebration of Life will be held for close friends and relatives. Her family extends its gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Stephanie Fussell, Dr. Bobby Tullos, the nurses at Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, and Southern Care Hospice. In lieu of flowers, contributions or donations may be made in her name to the Humane Society of South Mississippi. “When life gives you a hundred reasons to break down and cry, show life that you have a thousand reasons to smile and laugh. Stay strong.” Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street in Gulfport, is honored to serve the McCann family.