Debra Marion Borden

Debra Marion Borden, 73, of Brainerd, passed away on December 9 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Debra was born on October 31, 1952, in New Ulm, the daughter of Harvey and Verda (Hagg) Messner. She was a devoted mother who cherished every moment spent with her family—whether watching her children’s activities or doting on her grandchildren.

She also found tremendous joy in her career. Debra began her teaching journey in Aitkin before returning to school to earn her Special Education licensure. She went on to serve the Brainerd School District for 20 years, doing a job she truly loved. Her comforting presence, forgiving nature, and iconic smile made her a treasure to her family, her students, and her colleagues.

Debra’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She ensured she dedicated time each day to nurturing her relationship with God.

She will be dearly missed by her husband of 47 years, Clifford; her children, Timothy (Katherine), Noel (Sarah), Jerome (Amy), David (Abby), Andrea (Brent) Egan, Lisa (Nicholas) Stokman, and Joshua (Hannah); 29 grandchildren; and her siblings, Daniel (Lois) Messner and Darren (Kristy) Messner. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, December 19, 2025, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Brainerd. Family and friends are welcome to gather one hour prior to Mass and stay for a luncheon to follow. Interment will take place at Center Township Cemetery.