MRS. DEBRA JEAN CONNELL WETHERINGTON, age 65, of Eastman, GA, formerly of Perry, died Thursday, December 24, 2020 at Langdale Hospice House in Valdosta, GA after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Funeral services will be held at 3:00PM Tuesday, December 29, at Southerland Funeral Chapel, with Rev. Don Caulley officiating, with interment in Woodlawn Cemetery. Debra was born and raised in Eastman, a member of Grace Church in Perry, a 1972 graduate of Dodge County High School, earned a bachelor’s degree in Art from Mercer University, where she was a member of Phi Mu Sorority, a Kappa Sig Sweetheart, and a cheerleader in both high school and college. She earned her Master of Education from Georgia Southwestern University, and Specialist in Education Administration and Supervision from Valdosta State University. She was a retired educator of over 30 years for the Houston County Board of Education, where she taught 4th and 5th grade math, art, and served as Assistant Principal of Instruction for several years. Debra enjoyed crafts, decorating and using her talents for her friends. She loved her family dearly, especially her grandchildren, great nieces, and nephews. She also loved spending time at the beach, particularly Mexico Beach and St. Simons Island. She enjoyed “Walk to Emmaus Gatherings” and was in a prayer group called the “Loving Lady Bugs” for many years. Debra was the daughter of the late Elva Lee Waters Connell and William “Willie” Connell. She is survived by her Daughter; Son; 5 Grandchildren; Brother; Nephews; Great-Nieces and Great-Nephews; Aunts and Uncles; Special Family Friends; Numerous Cousins and Friends. The family may be contacted at the Connell residence. A visitation will be held from 1:00PM-3:00PM Tuesday, December 29 at Southerland Funeral Chapel. The family request masks be worn and social distancing be practiced during processions. In addition to flowers, the family request contributions to Grace Church, 1736 Houston Lake Rd., Perry, GA 31069. Serving as pallbearers are Tyler Connell, Dylan Connell, Ryan Connell, Myles Sowell, Taten Rogers, and Ray Smith.