Debra Arlene Shirley

We will gather for a celebration of her life on her birthday, September 21st at 10 am at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols.

Debra Arlene Shirley

of Owego, NY

Debra A. "Debbie" Shirley, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, left this world suddenly following health complications on August 14, 2024, at Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton, NY. Born on September 21, 1951, in Endicott, NY, Debbie’s warmth and kindness touched all who knew her throughout her 72 years of life.

Debbie grew up in Owego, where she was nurtured by her loving parents, Merlin and Arlene (Howe) Godfrey. She attended Owego Free Academy and later furthered her education at Binghamton University to become a dedicated Teacher's Aid and Teacher for BOCES in Binghamton, where she was revered for her gentle heart and unwavering kindness.

On July 19, 1969, Debbie married the love of her life, Jerald R. Shirley, and together they embarked on a journey of love and companionship that would span 55 years. Their union blessed them with two sons, Chris Shirley and Corey and Erin Shirley, who, along with her adored grandchildren, Matthew and Jacob, were the apple of her eye and her greatest joy.

Debbie is survived by her husband Jerald, her loving sons, her treasured grandchildren, her devoted siblings Jeff and Joan Godfrey, Elton Godfrey, and Patricia Lindstrom, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother Roger, and her sister Darlene.

Her professional life was spent in the nurturing environment of the PALS Program at BOCES, where her caring nature left an indelible mark on her colleagues and the many lives she touched. Debbie was not just a colleague but a dear friend to many, and will be remembered for her loving and friendly demeanor.

Debbie's interests were a reflection of her caring and creative spirit. She took great pride in her home, working as a Home Interiors Consultant, and her flower gardens were a testament to her love for beauty and nature. She had an uncanny ability to find treasures while thrift shopping, bringing joy to those around her with her finds from the Salvation Army and the Thrifty Shopper.

Family was the cornerstone of Debbie's life, and she extended that sense of family to her work and church community. A member of the Sword & the Spirit Christian Fellowship Church in Owego, she lived her faith through service and love. Her commitment to her community was evident when she encouraged and supported girls in the Owego Jr. Football cheerleading program.

Debbie's legacy is one of love, kindness, and friendship—a life beautifully lived and a heart generously given. As Helen Keller once said, "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched—they must be felt with the heart." Debbie's presence was indeed a beautiful thing felt deeply by the hearts of those who loved her.

We will gather for a celebration of her life on her birthday, September 21st at 10 am at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting her guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place , Memphis, TN 38105  http://www.stjude.org

Debbie's life was a tapestry of love and service, a narrative of a woman who gave of herself to enrich the lives of others. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories shared, the gardens tended, and the lives she touched. Though she has left this earthly realm, her spirit continues to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.