Deborah Suzanne Cameron

It is with profound sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Deborah Suzanne Cameron (Debbie) on July 8, 2023. Debbie's generosity and commitment to all were legendary. Whether with her growing family, hometown of Brawley, or among her friends, she truly made a huge impact on those that knew her.

Debbie was the eldest of Joe and Sue Hannon, born March 12, 1959 at Pioneers Memorial Hospital in Brawley. She attended Sacred Heart School, and Brawley Union High School, involving herself with numerous clubs and graduating in 1977. Debbie continued her education at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where she earned her degree in Agriculture Business and a minor in Art. Cal Poly is also where she fell in love with her college sweetheart, Paul Cameron. They returned to their hometown of Brawley and were married on November 27, 1982. They recently celebrated their 40th anniversary. Paul and Debbie were blessed with four children Katie, Joe Dan, Kyle and Sean.

Debbie held a position at Newman Seed Company, then worked with her father, Joe Hannon, at Imperial International Grain Company. Debbie soon became an integral part of the family businesses, Paul Cameron Ranches and cattle feeding operations.

Debbie made a lifelong commitment to serving her community. She was a true leader full of passion. Debbie set an example for all when it comes to loyalty, dedication, heart, community service and breathing the success of Brawley and the Imperial Valley. Debbie dedicated her life to volunteer work, youth outreach, community programs and the Agriculture and Beef Industries here in the Valley and California.

Debbie was honored numerous times for her service and support of our local community. In 2013 and 2015, she was honored as Distinguished Philanthropist at National Philanthropy Day by the Imperial Valley Community Foundation. In 2016, Debbie received the Eunice Fleming Service Award presented by the Boys and Girls Club for her outstanding support and dedication to the Imperial Valley Chapter. In 2018, she received the Distinguished Women of Imperial Valley award. In 2019, Debbie along with her husband Paul were honored with the Brawley Chamber of Commerce Branding Iron Award for their continued commitment to the community of Brawley. Debbie was also the recipient of the Western Fairs Association Blue Ribbon Award for dedication as an advisor to the Junior Fair Board at the California Mid-Winter Fair and Fiesta.

Debbie loved the youth of the Imperial Valley and was tireless in her commitment to them. She was a founding member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Imperial Valley, which was very near and dear to her heart. Her organizational and creative skills were instrumental in raising thousands of dollars through the annual dinner and auction. Debbie was a long time and much beloved advisor to the Junior Fair Board, serving as an advisor for 20 years. She was a big supporter of the 4-H and FFA in the Valley as well, supporting local youth at the annual California Mid-Winter Fair auction. Debbie also supported the youth and women of the Imperial Valley through her 31 years of service to the DOVES organization.

Debbie and Paul instilled in their four children the importance of hard work, dedication, generosity and community service. It is safe to say this is Debbie and Paul's greatest accomplishment. Along with this, being Nonnie to her grandkids was her greatest joy in life. She enthusiastically cheered them on in their school activities and sporting events. Nonnie loved spending quality time with each of her grandkids, whether it be coloring, swimming, sharing jokes with them, or going to the park, she loved them with her whole heart.

Rarely did you see her without a smile on her face, wearing her trademark Indian jewelry. Her giggle was truly infectious. She loved being with family and friends, dining, traveling, bicycling, and walking. Debbie always had a positive attitude, even while battling and overcoming breast cancer.

Debbie is survived by her husband of 40 years, Paul; daughter, Katie (Jared) Brady; son, Joe Dan (Abbie) Cameron; son, Kyle (Lena) Cameron; and son, Sean (Cheyenne) Cameron; grandchildren, Callum, Cameron, and Callie Sue Brady, Grady, Colbie Joe and Kaycie Cameron, Beau and Ruby Cameron, Wesley and James Cameron; parents, Joe and Sue Hannon; sister, Lisa (Steve) Davis; brother, Mike (Mary Ellen) Hannon; sister-in-law, Debbie (Darrell) Huddleston; along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

She will be missed dearly by all that had the privilege of being a part of her life. In Debbie's words, "It's all good!" ..... "Gotta get it going on!" .... "Love you more!"

In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored by donations to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Imperial Valley or The Imperial Valley Community Foundation.

Boys and Girls Clubs of Imperial Valley: P.O. Box 1277 Brawley, CA 92227. On the memo line please put "Debbie Cameron." You may also donate online at www.bgciv.org. Follow the prompts and earmark your donation "Debbie Cameron."

Imperial Valley Community Foundation: P.O. Box 2739 El Centro, CA 92244. On the memo line please put "Cameron Family Scholarship." You may also donate online at www.ivcommunityfoundation.org. Follow the prompts and earmark your donation.

A celebration of Debbie's life will be held on Friday, July 28th, 2023. Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Church in Brawley at 10:00 am with a luncheon and memorial to follow at Crown Cooling in Brawley from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm.