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Deborah "Debbie" Lynn Johnson (Macdonell), age 72, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on April 28, 2026 after a long battle with cancer. Born on December 12, 1953, in Flint, MI, she was the cherished second child of Alan and Betty (Watkins) Macdonell and a proud 1972 graduate of Bendle High School in Burton, MI where she was a cheerleader. Debbie dedicated her life to her passions, creating a successful cleaning business that spanned many years and developed many friendships. Her artistic talents shone through in her interior design work, decorative painting, and her remarkable ability to paint enchanting murals and faux finishes that brought joy to many homes.
In her earlier years, Debbie was an active member of South Baptist Church in Flint, where she found community and friendship. More recently, she became a familiar face at Connection Point Church in West Michigan, embracing the spirit of fellowship. Her adventurous spirit led her to participate in a billiards league, but her true sanctuary was in her garden, where she nurtured beautiful flowers and a variety of hostas. Debbie also cultivated her creativity through various arts and crafts, including basket making, woodworking, ceramics, cake decorating and sewing. Beyond her hobbies, it was her family that brought her the most joy. Time together was always too short and not frequent enough. Debbie's family was her biggest accomplishment and she was so proud of each and every one of them.
Debbie is survived by her four beloved sons, Jeffrey Johnson of Goodrich, Christopher (Jill) Johnson of Swartz Creek, Tony (Charlene) Johnson of Fruitport, and Gregory (Susan) Johnson of Bay City. She was a proud Nonnie, leaving behind Evan, Lucas, Erynn, Maxwell, Lillian, AJ, Georgia, Layton, and McKenna. She also leaves her loving sister, Lana LaLonde, her brother, David Macdonell, and a special niece, Kelly (Scott) Cook, who she adored alongside her children Andrew (JilliAnna) Lemek, Justin Cook, and Kailey Cook along with several other nieces and nephews. Debbie's partner, G. Michael Molnar, and her furry companion, Miss Betty Lynn, will deeply miss her warmth and affection. She was preceded in death by her parents, former spouse Terry Johnson, and her beloved Bichon, Murphy Jasper.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service to celebrate Debbie's life will be held at Sharp Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Swartz Creek, where friends and family are invited to gather. Visitation will be Friday, May 29th from 4-8 pm and Saturday, May 30th from 11 am until the time of service at 1 pm.
We invite all those whose lives were touched by Debbie to join us in honoring her remarkable spirit and the countless memories she leaves behind.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Deborah Lynn Johnson, please visit our flower store.
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