Obituary for Debbie Caffey

Debbie Caffey, 73, of Columbus, Georgia, formerly of Eastman, Georgia, passed away on Monday, October 26, 2026.

Debbie was a godly woman, a loyal friend, and devoted to her family. She had a servant's heart, always willing to help others, and a special way of making everyone feel welcome and loved. Her kindness and genuine care for others often made friends feel more like family.

An avid reader, Debbie spent much of her life working in libraries. During her years in Eastman, she was a librarian and was affectionately known as “Miss Debbie” to generations of children. She coordinated programs for toddlers, school-aged children, young adults, and adults, sharing her love of reading and bringing people together. After returning to Columbus, she continued working in the library, remaining connected to the books and people she loved.

While living in Eastman, Debbie was an active member of First Baptist Church, where she cherished her Esther Core Group. She was also a member of the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).

Upon returning to her hometown of Columbus, Debbie rejoined First Baptist Church of Columbus, the church where she had grown up. She especially treasured her Agape Sunday School Class and the friendships and fellowship she found there. She also dearly loved her Columbus Wildflower Group and the wonderful friends with whom she shared so many happy times.

Debbie's faith was the foundation of her life, reflected in the way she loved, served, and cared for others. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, friendship, and a life devoted to the Lord.

Debbie is survived by her sons, Chance Caffey (Cristen) and Chase Caffey (Ashley); her beloved grandsons, Branson and Bennett; Cannon Leadbetter and Trey Leadbetter; her brother, Ronnie Bush; her sister, Wrenda Crain; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Milton Caffey Jr.; her parents, Heyward and Lillian Bush; and her brother, Jimmy Bush.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia. A celebration of Debbie's life will follow at 3:00 p.m. in the Striffler-Hamby Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to assist with funeral expenses. Contributions may be made through PayPal at @chasoncaffey or mailed to Chase Caffey, 393 Evans-Riceville Road, Belt, MT 59412.

While Debbie will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, her family finds comfort and peace in knowing she is now in the presence of her Lord and Savior, reunited with her beloved Milton, and resting in His eternal love. Stokes-Southerland Funeral Home assisted the family locally.