Debra Annette Darnell

The Darnell and Nugent families invite you to join us on Saturday, February 19, 2022, from 12:00 pm until service time at 2:00 pm at the Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, 675 Howard Avenue, Biloxi, Mississippi, for a celebration of the life of our beloved Debra Annette, who passed into the Lord's Hands on February 14, 2022. 

Debra was 67 years of age at the time of her passing; born in Morganton, North Carolina to Frank Morris and Ann Elizabeth Propst. 

Debra moved to the Gulf Coast with her step-father, Alfred Nugent, and mother, Ann Elizabeth Propst Nugent, when he was stationed at KAFB in Biloxi.  She graduated from D'Iberville High School and attended Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, where she completed an Associate Degree as an assistant teacher.  She loved working at D’Iberville Elementary School for 29 years.

Debra truly loved her only daughter Katrina and grandson Jaxson. Her greatest pleasure in life was to share family time with them; taking great pride in their accomplishments together.  She was inseparable from her mother Ann as they supported each other on life’s journey. She enjoyed her position as first daughter in the Nugent sister tribe with Rose Vicknair and Lorrie Muse. She happily accepted that she was built “low to the ground”.

Debra loved to dance and she was sure to be on her feet when the music played. Traveling with those she loved gave her great pleasure, and she did so to the Alabama beaches over Spring breaks and the Carolina beaches at Christmas, Las Vegas, Disney World, Washington DC, and many other locals.

Her passion in life was teaching young children and providing them the gifts of compassion and laughter. She did this for almost three decades; always enjoying their heartfelt hugs and expressions of sincere gratitude. This world is a better place for Debra’s dedication to others.

Debra was preceded in death by her step-father, Alfred Nugent; her mother, Ann Elizabeth Nugent.  

Debra is survived by her daughter, Katrina Darnell Gordon of D’Iberville MS; and her grandson, Jaxson Gordon. She is also survived by her sisters, Rose (Jacob) Vicknair of Carriere, MS and Lorrie (Henry) Muse of Dallas, TX; her niece, Katelyn (Brock) Jackson; great niece and nephew, Alexus and Brysen Jackson. Debra also leaves behind her beloved aunt, Boycie Carter who was always her cheerleader in life; her sweet aunt Jeanette Jarrett from Morganton, NC; and many cousins, friends and co-workers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Debra’s name to the American Cancer Society.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Debra Annette Morris Darnell.