Debbie Sue Hayslett
Debbie Sue Hayslett, 72, was called home on May 22, 2025. Born on January 27, 1953, Debbie faced life with a courageous spirit, especially evident during her remarkable 30-year battle with cancer. Given only ten years to live, she defied expectations, demonstrating an incredible will to live and a strength that inspired all who knew her. Her family celebrates that she "won that war" and has now found peace.
Debbie was a woman who loved to have fun. She loved to laugh, she cherished dancing and, most importantly, her family. She delighted in the large family gatherings that marked every Fourth of July, Christmas, Sundays, and often, just because. As her niece lovingly put it, "Debbie was Debbie, what you saw was what you got, period. She didn’t mince words and you never had to question where you stood with Debbie, if you didn’t know, she would be sure to tell you." This straightforward honesty was a beloved part of her character.
Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, John Franklin Davis and Delores Davis; her siblings, Jimmy Davis, Billy Davis, Bobby Davis, Ronnie Davis, Shelby Leonard, and David Davis; her sister-in-law, Judy Duncan; brother-in-law, Steve Hayslett; her grandson, Dontae Muse; and her beloved pet, Sophie.
She is survived by the love of her life, Wayne Hayslett; her daughter, Bobbie ("Lulu") McCarty Hutchens; stepdaughter, Teena Muse; and stepson, Justin Hayslett. Debbie also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Christian ("Buck") McCarty, Laney Hutchens, Colin Hayslett, Phillip Muse, Alec Manning, and Autumn Hayslett. She is survived by her sister, Ann Duncan; special friend and sister-in-law, Sheila Davis; sisters-in-law, Elaine Davis, Pam Davis, and Patty Davis. Special nephew, Jeff Leonard. Debbie will also be dearly missed by her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Juanita and Charles Hayslett; brothers-in-law, Eddie Hayslett, Greg Hayslett, Ronnie Hayslett, brother-in-law Billy Duncan and their families. Her loving dogs, Shiloh and Chloe, will miss her deeply.
The family would also like to thank the Blue Ridge Cancer Center, Staff at Carilion and Carilion Home Health. A special thank you to Debbies Case Coordinator, Donna Castillo. Donna we think you for not only going above and beyond, but for genuinely caring and loving Debbie! Donna was Debbies nurse who became her friend.
The family will have a celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to the American Cancer Society.
