Obituary of Debra Botkin-Church

Debra Lynn “Deb’s” (Smith, Henson) Botkin-Church, of Simpsonville, S.C., passed away on July 11, 2024. Debra was born July 26, 1959 in Corpus Christi, TX to Richard Sherwood Smith and Phyllis Ann Brown.

Predeceased by her parents and Howard Henson Jr., Debra is survived by her husband of 11 years Bryan Robert Church, and two sons Barrett Allen Botkin with wife Kaycee, of Nederland, TX and James William Church of Simpsonville; a brother, Howard Henson III of Benbrook, TX; a sister, Francine Henson of Dallas, TX; and four grandchildren, Nolan, Lucas, Chandler, and Presli. She was predeceased by her sister, Patricia Henson.

Debra attended community college in Lubbock, TX obtaining her cosmetology license and eventually moving to Dallas to perform her magic for the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader Team. Later she setup up shop at The Cutting Edge in Greenville, SC for more than 20 years.

Debra was an exuberant Dallas Cowboys fan; she never missed a game. Debra loved people, she had the biggest heart, touching countless people’s lives with her full-on firecracker spirit, there was never a dull moment with her witty charm and sense of humor. Debra was a phenomenal cook, continuously creating new dishes. Debra enjoyed gardening, canning food, fishing and was an animal advocate.

Deb’s Celebration of Life will be held at home Saturday, August 3, 1:00-5:00pm

Keeping with her requests; an informal drop-in of remembrance, fellowship and storytelling.

Deb’s requested for everyone to share photos for the celebration, story kick off points!

A secure Google photo album is available to deposit images at https://photos.app.goo.gl/vTCZLiitNRreMvz16

Church residence

111 Dalewood Drive

Simpsonville, SC 29681

864.304.0024 (text is best!)