Deborah A. Spinelli

It is with heavy hearts yet fond memories that we announce the passing of Deborah A. Spinelli, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Deborah, affectionately known as Debbie, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, with her daughters by her side, after a brief illness. She was 69 years old. Born on August 11, 1956, in Trenton, NJ, Debbie was the cherished daughter of the late Julia Ruvo and Donald Tedeschi. She was the older sister to her dear brother Louis, who predeceased her, and her devoted sister, Donna Crowe, who survives her. Debbie shared a close-knit relationship with her family, and their bonds only strengthened over the years. Debbie was blessed with two loving daughters, Tina (Michael) Olszewski and Trisha Spinelli, who brought immense joy to her life. Her legacy continues through her five cherished grandchildren: Madeleine, Audrey, Julia, Olivia, and Jacob. Each held a special place in her heart and brought endless smiles to her days. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who adored their Aunt Debbie, and her lifelong best friend, Sandra Reilly, who was like a sister to her. Debbie grew up in Burlington, NJ, and graduated from Burlington City High School. She dedicated her life to raising her children in East Haddam, creating a nurturing home filled with love and laughter. Balancing family and career, she worked at Middlesex Hospital before finding her true calling as a Department Manager of Fabric & Crafts, a role she cherished until her retirement in 2022. Her passion for crafting and creativity was boundless, with paper crafting being her favorite pastime. Debbie delighted in making decorations for her grandchildren's birthday parties, each creation a testament to her love and thoughtfulness. A service to honor Debbie's life will be held on March 1, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Biega's Funeral Home, located at 3 Silver St, Middletown, CT 06457. Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate the life of a woman who touched so many with her kindness and warmth. The Spinelli family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff in the Neuro ICU at Yale, especially her compassionate nurse, Heidi A., for their exceptional care and support during Debbie's final days. Debbie's memory will forever be a beacon of love and strength for those she leaves behind. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we say goodbye, we hold close the memories of her laughter, her unwavering support, and the love she showered upon everyone she met. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with those she loved and missed dearly.