Deborah Lee (Debbie) Kelly
1956-05-23 2024-10-02
Deborah Lee Kelly, known affectionately as Debbie to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2024, at the age of 68. Born on May 23, 1956, in Cincinnati, Ohio; the daughter of the late Ralph D. and Delores (Barnes) Valentine,
Debbie was a beacon of light and love to all who knew her.
Debbie is survived by her loving husband Thomas Kelly, her children Kathryn Valentine Kelly and John Fergus Kelly, both of whom were the pride and joy of her life, her sister Rebecca Valentine-Lytle, her brother Daniel Valentine, along with her Kelly, Henning in-laws and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to her parents, Debbie was predeceased by her sister Christi Anderson.
Debbie grew up in Newark Valley, New York where she created countless cherished memories. Debbie was proudly part of the first graduating class at the "New" Newark Valley High School, NY. Even after living in Florida, she remained connected with her peers, who this year celebrated their 50th High School Reunion. After high school, Debbie furthered her education at RIT where she earned a bachelor’s degree. Debbie's professional life was characterized by her role as a sales executive for Avon, Yves Rocher and CMCE where she not only excelled in her career but also formed lasting relationships.
Debbie’s generosity extended to every corner of her life and her commitment and care elevated every gathering she touched. Her love for cooking was another way she showed her devotion to others. She had an expansive and well-organized collection of recipes and was known for her extraordinary meals, pouring love and care into each one. Her kitchen was a place of creativity and joy, and the meals she prepared were as much about bringing people together as they were about the food itself. Debbie’s ability to make others feel welcome and cared for through her meals was a true reflection of her loving spirit.
Debbie had a heart full of passion for family and history, and her interest in genealogy allowed her to trace her roots and share rich family stories with present and future generations. Music brought her joy, and she shared that appreciation with her children. Debbie’s ability to give the perfect gift was unmatched. Family movie nights and card games filled with laughter and togetherness are cherished memories, further reflecting her commitment to building bonds and creating lasting moments.
During their marriage, Tom and Debbie lived in many locations. They met in Wilmington, Delaware and from there, they lived in Lake Bluff, Illinois, Wilton, Connecticut, Munich, Germany and Leawood, Kansas. They ultimately moved to Naples, Florida, where they enjoyed their retirement years and spending time with family. In all of these locations, Debbie formed wonderful and lasting friendships.
Those who knew Debbie would describe her as loving, selfless, and kind. She had a heart that knew no bounds and a spirit that uplifted everyone she encountered. Her kindness was a gentle force that made the world a better place and her selfless love was a gift she gave freely and abundantly.
Friends and family are invited to a period of visitation on Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the MacPherson Funeral Home, 5 Whig Street, Newark Valley, NY 13811, with a burial service to follow at Hope Cemetery in Newark Valley, NY, where Debbie is to be laid to rest alongside her family. A celebration of her remarkable life will be held in the fall of 2025. Memories and condolences can be shared in her guestbook at www.macphersonfh.com.
Debbie was a beacon of light and love to all who knew her.
Debbie is survived by her loving husband Thomas Kelly, her children Kathryn Valentine Kelly and John Fergus Kelly, both of whom were the pride and joy of her life, her sister Rebecca Valentine-Lytle, her brother Daniel Valentine, along with her Kelly, Henning in-laws and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to her parents, Debbie was predeceased by her sister Christi Anderson.
Debbie grew up in Newark Valley, New York where she created countless cherished memories. Debbie was proudly part of the first graduating class at the "New" Newark Valley High School, NY. Even after living in Florida, she remained connected with her peers, who this year celebrated their 50th High School Reunion. After high school, Debbie furthered her education at RIT where she earned a bachelor’s degree. Debbie's professional life was characterized by her role as a sales executive for Avon, Yves Rocher and CMCE where she not only excelled in her career but also formed lasting relationships.
Debbie’s generosity extended to every corner of her life and her commitment and care elevated every gathering she touched. Her love for cooking was another way she showed her devotion to others. She had an expansive and well-organized collection of recipes and was known for her extraordinary meals, pouring love and care into each one. Her kitchen was a place of creativity and joy, and the meals she prepared were as much about bringing people together as they were about the food itself. Debbie’s ability to make others feel welcome and cared for through her meals was a true reflection of her loving spirit.
Debbie had a heart full of passion for family and history, and her interest in genealogy allowed her to trace her roots and share rich family stories with present and future generations. Music brought her joy, and she shared that appreciation with her children. Debbie’s ability to give the perfect gift was unmatched. Family movie nights and card games filled with laughter and togetherness are cherished memories, further reflecting her commitment to building bonds and creating lasting moments.
During their marriage, Tom and Debbie lived in many locations. They met in Wilmington, Delaware and from there, they lived in Lake Bluff, Illinois, Wilton, Connecticut, Munich, Germany and Leawood, Kansas. They ultimately moved to Naples, Florida, where they enjoyed their retirement years and spending time with family. In all of these locations, Debbie formed wonderful and lasting friendships.
Those who knew Debbie would describe her as loving, selfless, and kind. She had a heart that knew no bounds and a spirit that uplifted everyone she encountered. Her kindness was a gentle force that made the world a better place and her selfless love was a gift she gave freely and abundantly.
Friends and family are invited to a period of visitation on Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the MacPherson Funeral Home, 5 Whig Street, Newark Valley, NY 13811, with a burial service to follow at Hope Cemetery in Newark Valley, NY, where Debbie is to be laid to rest alongside her family. A celebration of her remarkable life will be held in the fall of 2025. Memories and condolences can be shared in her guestbook at www.macphersonfh.com.