Happy birthday Deb. So many memories. So many things to say. I can't find the words. Thank you for introducing me to Clayton all those years ago. We sure had some times! Art's diner, Wilson's Beach, Hotel Carlton and most of all O'Brien's. I'll always remember. I wish you eternal peace.

November 24, 2021. Today Debby would have reached the age of 73. It was so sad to hear of her passing a few weeks ago. We were friends since high school and beyond. She was a beautiful and popular girl and I always admired her friendly and outgoing way of relating to others. There is so much I could write yet I know she would not approve of it. Truly, she would not approve of being listed on the internet in any way whatsoever. So I'll keep this brief and take solace in knowing that she is in loving company with her mother Mary, her father Roger, her stepfather Paul, and all her beloved pets on the other side.

This news breaks my heart for my mama, Kathryn, formerly Houghton.

I only met Debbie once, but that summer on the St Lawrence River in her parents' house where she grew up and she and mom hung out as teens holds fond memories for me in New York. I got the impression that not much had changed from their teen years there. Even the phone they called boys on remained in the same spot. I loved waking up to the sea breeze and sound of waves those few weeks.

But to see my mom two nights ago fight not to break down and me to help her call the woman who called from Arizona who left a message for mom days ago with the sad news broke my heart.

She, just like several of my mom's friends from high school, have never lost touch despite being thousands of miles apart. Letters, cards, calls were and are common place, and when Mom couldn't make it to the phone, Deb spoke with my dad, did the same with mom's fiance at the time, Ronald, and then her love, Vernon. Just like they were friends, too.

When I hear the song "80s Ladies" by KT Oslin, I think of all of them.

We were the girls of the 50's.
Stoned rock and rollers in the 60's.
And more than our names got changed
As the 70's slipped on by.
Now we're 80's ladies.
There ain't been much these ladies ain't tried.

Rest easy, Deb. You did it your way.
PS, cancer sucks.

My condolences to Deb's family. Even though I had not seen my friend in years we stayed in contact. It seems like yesterday, we were in high school and dreaming of our futures Deb was one of a kind and we loved her. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.