Debra Nelson Carson

Debra Nelson Carson, age 70, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on November 13, 2025 in Kyle, TX. Debra was born on January 4, 1955, in El Paso, TX, to Jack Miller Nelson and Helen Hebert Nelson. She graduated from Afred M. Barbe High School in Lake Charles, LA, in 1973. Debra earned her Bachelor of Arts in Interior Architecture from the University of Southwest Louisiana in 1978. This field allowed her to express her creativity and bring beauty and comfort into every space she touched. She worked for Inside Story and Concord House in Lake Charles, LA , and Bouligny Interiors in Lafayette, LA. After college, Debra moved to Atlanta, GA, where she joined Georgetown Interiors Cygnet and worked on distinguished projects such as the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center and beautifully appointed rooms in the Candler Estate.

Upon graduation, Debra moved to Atlanta, GA where she met and later married James E. Carson, Jr. The two had one daughter, Katharine Margaret, and were married for 22 years.

Debra was a member of The Junior League of Lake Charles and Lafayette, LA , as well as Atlanta, GA. Debra was also a lifelong member of the Methodist Church, and her faith remained a steady foundation throughout her life. She was an avid reader and a talented artist. She also cherished music and her beloved old Turner Classic Movies.

Debra was preceded in death by her parents, Helen and Jack Nelson; her brother, Jack R. Nelson, and his wife, Elizabeth, all of Bastrop, TX.

Debra is survived by her daughter, Katharine Carson Mills and her husband, William P. Mills, IV, and her grandson, William P. Mills, V, all of Lafayette, LA. She is also survived by her sisters, Sharon L. Gassiott and husband William, of Bastrop, TX, and Melissa N. Young of Cedar Park, TX.

She leaves behind many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly; Katherine L. Cook and husband Roshan Jhala; Lindsey K. Colon and husband Alex; Arthur D. Cook, Jr. and wife Maci; Sarah B. Gassiott; Jack A. Nelson and wife Morgan; Miller J. Cook; Anna L. Foster and husband Stephen; and William C. Nelson.

Debra will be remembered for her warmth, her generosity, and the love she shared so freely with her family and friends. Her presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Smithville, located at 400 Olive Street, Smithville, TX, on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 11:00 am.

To honor Debra’s memory, the family has established a memorial page with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Memorial contributions may be made online at https://donate.nationalmssociety.org/campaign/Debra-Carson-Memorial-Fund and will support MS research and services for those affected by MS.