BENTON — Deborah Lynn White

of Benton and Little Rock, beloved sister, and friend, died peacefully amid family and friends on May 16, 2023. Parents Clemmie White and Estelle Taliaferro White predeceased her.

She is survived by brother William (Shannon) White of Benton, nieces Lucy (Nathan) Chamblee and Claire (Bailey) Taylor all of Benton, great-nephew Bennett Chamblee and great-niece Charlotte Taylor, cousin Scott (Jennifer) White and their sons Jenson and Lawson, Tracy (Margaret) Johnson of Hot Springs, a multitude of cousins, countless friends and Tri Delta sisters,

Debbie was as lovely as she was talented. She majored in Art History and Interior Design at UALR and spent most of her career as owner/partner/design maven at White Furniture of Benton, a true family business founded by her father. Debbie designed and outfitted beautiful and elegant homes throughout the mid-South.

Following in a family tradition, she was a champion of a thriving downtown Benton and the importance to a community of successful small businesses. A past president of the Arkansas Furniture Association and a CARTI Foundation Board member, she donated generously to non-profits in fundraising efforts.

Her lifelong interest in politics began with her selection as the first female member of the Executive Committee of the Benton (Saline County) Democratic Party and later immersed herself in grassroots support of local, state, and national Republican issues.

Debbie loved to entertain and threw epic parties. She loved travel, enjoyed the camaraderie of old and new friends alike over an icy martini, a great meal and great wine. She is remembered for her wonderful design talent in all things from fashion to furniture to fine automobiles.

Visitation is at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 19, 2023 with funeral services immediately following at 10 a.m. in Selph Hall at First Baptist Church of Benton with Pastor Rick Grant officiating. Burial will be at Fairplay Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to First Baptist Church of Benton.

Online guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com