Debra J. DeBarge

SPENCER/OXFORD – Debra J. (Laurinitis) DeBarge, 69, died Thursday, August 15, 2024, in her home after a yearlong battle with cancer. She was predeceased by her husband of 29 years, Richard Dean DeBarge who died in 2020. She is survived by two sons, Matthew Tyler DeBarge of Worcester, and James Dean DeBarge of Middletown, CT; a brother, Rich Laurinitis; and four grandchildren, Khyliin, Maxx, Jordann, and Tessa. She was predeceased by her two brothers, Tony Laurinitis and Gary Laurinitis. 

She was born in Hartford, CT, daughter of the late Anthony and Regina (Roman) Laurinitis, and lived in Oxford for four years before recently moving to Spencer. She graduated from Manchester High School in Manchester, CT.

Mrs. DeBarge was a certified nurse’s aide at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown, CT, for 20 years before relocating to Massachusetts. She worked at Market Basket in Oxford, MA, where she enjoyed chatting with her customers. She was a member of Bible Way Baptist Church in Auburn. She was a kind and simple person who loved going for walks, baking, spending time at the beach, and writing letters to family and friends.

Calling hours will be held from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Paradis-Givner Funeral Home, 357 Main St., Oxford. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date Bible Way Baptist Church, 18 Heard St., Auburn.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.