Debra Kaye Johnson

Debra Kaye Johnson, a cherished wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on August 17, 2024, at the age of 68. Debra was born in Saginaw, Michigan, on January 9, 1956, to the late Marvin Herbert Burden and Maxine Luelle (Lincoln) Burden. Debra was a beloved member of her community and a dedicated family woman.

A proud graduate of Saginaw High School, class of 1974. Debra enjoyed a successful career working at Saginaw Steering Gear and later at Delphi, where she dedicated over 25 years of her life. Her colleagues remember her as a hardworking and committed individual who brought compassion and energy to her workplace.

She had a passion for decorating her yard and home for the holidays, creating warm and festive spaces that brought joy to all who visited. In her prime, she found delight in reading romance novels and spent countless hours in the kitchen, lovingly preparing meals for her family. She cherished hosting family gatherings, where she could bring everyone together and savor the precious moments spent with loved ones.

Debra was married to Michael Arnell Johnson on August 6, 1977. Michael preceded her in death on July 15, 1984. She is survived by her loving children Tonya (Aaron) Burden-Brummell, Melody (Marcus) Ponder, and Ronald (Joy Wilson) Burney Jr.; grandchildren Tomarkio Burden, Aaron Brummell Jr., Andrew Brummell, Alexandre Brummell, A'Perryah Johnson, DaMetrah Johnson, Ronald Burney III, and Rian Burney; great-grandchildren Phoenix Burden-Smith, Payden Burden-Smith, Alexandre Brummell Jr., Aaron Brummell III, Kyrie Johnson, Myanna Colwye, and Mizanni Colwye; brother, Thomas (Douglas) Burden; many nieces and nephews; and a special friend Beverly Akins.

Debra is preceded in death by her daughter Candice Johnson; brother, Marvin "Lucky" Burden Jr. and sister, Lucille "Bunny" Burden; and her lifelong partner Ronald Burney Sr.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 23, 2024, at W.L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd, Saginaw, MI 48603, where friends may visit with the family from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Pastor Evelyn Wesley-Allen will officiate the service. Please visit www.casefuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, sign the guest book, and share memories of Debra with her family.