Debra Marie (Keeton) Browning

Debra Marie Keeton Browning of West Liberty, KY, formerly of Ashland, KY, passed away Sunday, April 27, 2025, at the age of 69 years, 1 month, & 4 days.  She was born Friday, March 23, 1956, in West Liberty, KY, daughter of Callis Eugene & Ann Beatrice Jones Keeton.

Debbie was a graduate of Morgan County High School. While attending Morehead State University, she met the love of her life, Rick Browning. After just two months, they knew they had found something special, and went on to share 49 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they raised two children, Josh and Cody Ann, and built a life full of love, family, and community.

Debbie and Rick owned and operated Browning Electric Company in Ashland, Kentucky, where she was known for her hard work, generosity, and dedication. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother — lovingly called “Noonie” — Debbie always put her family first. She took great joy in supporting her children’s many activities, often feeding entire teams with her famous fried chicken. 

Her support extended to every aspect of her family’s lives: organizing concerts for Rick, cheering for Josh during his time in Drum and Bugle Corps, and making countless trips to ensure Cody could attend private violin lessons. Her selflessness and spirit touched all who knew her.

Debbie’s greatest joy was her family, and she especially loved spending time with her grandchildren. She made their childhoods magical by taking time for simple, special moments — going on walks, playing outside, and teaching them about the wonders of nature. She loved taking them on hikes to Natural Bridge, where they would explore, picnic, and make memories that will be cherished forever.

Deeply involved in her community, Debbie volunteered her time with Poage’s Landing Festival, Ashland’s Summer Motion, and the Paul G. Blazer Band Parents organization. She also served faithfully as a Precinct Election Officer. Debbie loved the outdoors, cherished her pets, Tater and Henry, and found her greatest joy in time spent with family. She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Ashland, Kentucky.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Callis Eugene & Ann Beatrice Jones Keeton and her loving husband of 49 years, Rick E. Browning.

Debbie is survived by her two children, Joshua Browning (Ginger) and Cody Ann Napier (Travis); three grandchildren, Lennon Browning, Grace Browning, and Carson Napier; one brother, Johnie Keeton; special cousin, Annelle Lord (Brian); her mother-in-law, Harriet Adkins; sister-in-law, Connie Browning; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, & cousins.

Debbie’s kindness, warmth, and unwavering love will be remembered always. She was loved by many and will be forever missed.

Memorial service, 7 p.m., Friday, May 2, 2025 at Potter Funeral Home, with Pastor Mark Kloha officiating.  Visitation from 5 - 7 p.m., Friday, May 2, 2025 at Potter Funeral Home.

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