French “Tinker” DeBord, 79, of Charleston passed away Monday, August 21, 2017 at Hospice House of Charleston.
French was preceded in death by his parents, Rhoda Mae and French DeBord, brothers, Talmadge DeBord, Jim DeBord, and Gene DeBord, sisters, Fay Bell, Sherry DeHart, Freda Eskew and Virginia Midkiff.
After serving in the U.S. Army he had a 35 year career with Verizon Communication as a building engineer.
He is survived by his loving and caring wife of 56 years, Sue, sister, Joyce Pauley of Florida and nieces and nephews who have supported him throughout his illness with loving letters, cards and phone calls.
French loved working in their flower gardens. He would dig the hole and Sue would plant the flowers. He always enjoyed their travel and summer vacations at the beach.
French was a very spiritual person who loved God and wanted to do his will. He was a very kind and generous person who loved spending time with his family and friends. He was very well known for his heavenly homemade chocolate fudge which he personally delivered to special friends and family. He loved to play basketball, laugh and enjoy life.
The family would like to thank Hospice for the special care he received. In lieu of flowers a donation to HospiceCare, 1606 Kanawha Blvd., W., Charleston, WV 25387-2536 would be appreciated.
A celebration of life will be 11:00am Thursday, August 24, 2017 at the Bible Center Church Charleston with Pastor Chad Cowan officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
Sue,
Learning of French’s passing has me in tears. You and him both was a huge part of my childhood. Not sure if either of you knew it or not. You both always made me feel special. French always outside in his flowers or washing his vette. And the few rare times he would let me come watch football and snack in front of the tv with him. Or you painting my nails. Sending me over special Christmas gifts purses, silk shirts, and skirt with matching tops. I remember so much when we lived beside you guys. Only wished he could’ve met my 2 year old daughter who already has my imagination. I’m sure he would diffently give one of his belly laughs watching her. I’d love for you to meet her. You will love her prissy side, and her little bit of drama queen attitude she has mastered. Please contact me or mom we would love to see you and visit. When your ready for visitors. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I love you so much and thank you and Tinker for always being right next door for me and for being such a great impact on my childhood.
Love and Prayers
Lee Ann Brown
Sue i have never had neighbors lee ann and i loved so much. Ill never forget lee ann growing up playing with her barbie and ken but she called hers french and sue. You two are so special and im so sad to here of your great loss.
French was I fine man. Always friendly and very caring. I worked with French at Verizon and always admired his honest and forthright opinions. Good man and hate to hear of his passing. Condolences to the family. Rest with God my brother.
Aunt Sue. We are so sad to lose our beloved Uncle Tink! We will miss that smile and laugh. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Aunt Joyce. Wish we could be there with you in person but will be there in spirit. All our love. Tom & Diane DeBord
Sue, We are so sorry to hear of Tinker’s passing.
He was such a fun guy & a good man, always had a smile in the earlier years when we were together.
God bless.
So very sorry to hear of French’s passing. I worked with him at telephone co. He was always such a pleasure to work with. I am so glad I ran into him at CAMC lab that day and got a chance to briefly chat with him.
I am so sorry to hear of French’s passing, I used to swap stories with him at the telephone company. My Prayers go with the family.
Sue:
I worked with French for many years at the telephone company. It was a joy to work with him. I was sorry to hear of his health problems in his later years. I’m truly sorry Peg and I can’t attend the service. We will be out of town celebrating our 49th wedding anniversary on August 24th.
Please accept our condolences. You did have many happy years together. He spoke of you often. As you know, He loved you very much. Please take care of yourself and if you ever need anything, please call us at 304-925-1411.
As a friend , worked with French many projects , I am comforted knowing JESHUA’S love , grace and redemption is his blessing unto spiritual life in heaven. I extend my condolences to Sue and family as you deal with the parting of your soul mate. Shalom Aleichem in JESUS , our Passover rest. Revelatiom 22 : 21.
Thank you for your service to our country Mr. DeBord!
Very strong willed man. Sorry to hear of his passing. Very grateful to have known French, through the short time it has been.