Deborah Anne Macdonald Graham
January 31, 1952 – February 1, 2023
Deborah Anne Macdonald Graham
January 31, 1952 – February 1st, 2023
It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of Debbie Graham. Beloved wife of Butch, mother of Josh and Dan (Jen), grandmother (Olivia and Ryder), daughter (Elizabeth and Richard), sister (Wayne, Susan, Rick and Cathy), aunt, sister-in-law, and friend. Originally from West Bridgewater, Massachusetts, Debbie made her home in Naples, Florida for the last 50 years. Debbie began teaching after going to school nights, while working and raising her boys. She delighted in teaching and shaped generations of students. She gave her talent and heart to so many causes: as a founder of Sunlight Home, as President of the Grace Center Foundation, as a supporter and contributor to Phelan-McDermid Syndrome foundation in honor of her nephew, as a founder of Teachers mentoring Teachers, as a contributor and supporter of Community Pregnancy Clinic, as a leader in multiple groups at her church, CenterPoint, as volunteer at Naples Christian Academy and Sabal Palm elementary school, coach and so much more.
Debbie was a special soul. Her impact on others is far and wide. Her legacy is that of kindness, encouragement, graciousness, love and faith. Above all faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ. It was her desire to see God’s love in everything and everyone, and that she did this so effortlessly made her the best of us. We will miss her, deeply.
The celebration of her life will be February 11 th at 11 am at Center Point Church, 6590 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples, Florida.
In lieu of flowers, please join us in contributing to two of her cherished organizations: Grace Center Foundation, www.gracecenterfoundation.org , and Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Foundation, www.pmsf.org
Joan DeLadurantey
February 16, 2023, 12:26 pm
I am honored to be one of Debbie‘s friends. I met her early on as a waitress partner at JP‘s restaurant in 1978. We were both young starting our lives out, building our first homes, and new moms together. We were pregnant at the same time with my daughter and her with Daniel. I remember when she talked about going back to school and becoming a schoolteacher as it was her passion at that time. She was such a hard worker and a determined young lady. I have four children, and she was the coach for my three children in soccer and baseball. Her husband was my son’s baseball coach. They were both always giving back to the community. When you were in the room with Debbie, she made you feel so special and important. She wanted to know all about you and your life. She will be missed beyond words however I know she is with Jesus rejoicing right now. My prayers go to her boys and their families at this time. May the Lord grant them comfort and many many memories of Debbie they shared. Joanie DeLadurantey
Deanna
February 16, 2023, 12:26 pm
I’ve probably known Debbie my whole life, but got so much closer to her recently.
From Sunlight Home when I was probably an infant, to working on the Grace Center board for many years, she has been an inspiration to me. She was one of the most amazing people I’ve met in my life and I will miss her so much.
She truly changed lives with what she did everyday.
My heart goes out to her sons and grandchildren. Every time she spoke about them, there was a beautiful smile on her face. It was very clear she loved them, as well as her sister and nephew.
Memories?
One of the best: we were at our GCF Christmas dinner, just a few months ago, and she had just been to NY and told us that her son booked her a salon appointment. When she arrived, they asked her, are you our model? And she just laughed.
Then she gave everyone at the dinner presents, of course. Because that was what Debbie did.
I will miss Debbie terribly, but I’m so happy that she’s with her husband and Jesus for eternity.
Chris and Pam
February 16, 2023, 12:27 pm
In loving memory of our dear friend, Debbie. You were a ray of sunshine wherever you went. We will miss you. Pam Zunino and Chris Miante
Yuzellie Garcia
February 16, 2023, 12:27 pm
Mrs. Graham truly made a difference, not only in my life but hundreds, if not thousands, of others. I’m still in disbelief, but one thing I’m truly grateful for was giving her flowers and appreciation while she was alive. I’m so happy I reached out and let her know how much I loved her and told her about all the great 5th-grade memories I still carry with me. I can still vividly remember how gentle but stern she was with 11-year-old Yuzellie, constantly correcting & reminding me that I was someone important, always letting me know I was a leader and had more of a responsibility. I’ll never forget that big smile & her amazing spirit. She was respected, loved, and her presence alone filled the room. She loved all of her students as if we were her children. The world has lost an amazing legend. I hope you’re up there giving all the kids you’re famous whipped cream squirts I’m so blessed to have had you as a teacher & I’m happy you were able to see what I’ve become. I don’t have to wonder if I made you proud because you let me know, remained connected & followed my journey. I’ll always hold you close to my heart. ❤️