It’s with great sadness that the family of Deborah Fay Kennelly (nee Falconi), (nee Donnelly) announces her passing on Friday, November 4, 2022, after a brief illness. She died peacefully surrounded by her family.
Born in North Bay, Ontario on March 26, 1954, Deborah is survived by her husband Dennis, her daughter Caroline (Chris) of Midland, her sister Beverly (Jules), and brother Anthony (Heather), of North Bay. She is predeceased by her parents Louis and Josephine Falconi.
Educated in North Bay at St. Joseph’s College and at St. Michael’s College, University of Toronto (7T7), Deborah went on to a brilliant and fulfilling career in education at Marymount College in Sudbury (1977-1996). She expanded her horizons by teaching for 4 years at the St. Albert’s Adult Learning Centre in Sudbury, followed by 7 years as Principal at Sacred Heart School in Espanola, under the auspices of the Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board.
Deborah was a born teacher and came into her own as a Principal. She credits her success as Principal to the talented group of teachers and hardworking school secretary she had at Sacred Heart.
Deb had many passions in life, and one of those passions was gardening, which she inherited from her mother. Each year she created something new and exciting and her creations could have graced the cover of many magazines.
Over the last 4 years when she was physically unable to make the climb up the rocks to the different levels, she hired a young lady who demonstrated a similar passion for growing and creating beautiful spaces and memories. Debbie was able to sit on the deck and observe, direct and enjoy “Her Garden”.
Deb and Dennis enjoyed travelling and had a keen sense of adventure which was evident in the wide variety of destinations they visited. They were extremely fortunate to have made over 12 trips with Deb’s parents to such places as Ireland, England, Bermuda, Mexico, Arizona, Chicago, British Columbia and many other assorted locations throughout Canada. Debbie also enjoyed many adventures with her best friend, Cheryl Chamberland. They travelled to Hawaii, Spain and London, England for the Chelsea Flower Show.
Special thanks to Dr. Greg Garrioch who guided Deb and Dennis through this difficult time and kept Deborah comfortable. There are so many who have ‘walked with Deb’ and assisted her over the last 5 years. To all of you - THANK YOU!!!
Resting at the Jackson and Barnard Funeral Home, 233 Larch Street, Sudbury, Friday, November 11, 2022, from 3 to 7 pm. Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Hope Church, 591 Brennan Road, Sudbury, Saturday, November 12 at 10:30 am. Reception to follow at the church hall. Cremation at the Park Lawn Crematorium.
For those who wish to view the Mass by livestream www.ourladyofhope.ca.
Donations may be made to the Salvation Army or to Covenant House.
For donations or messages of condolence www.lougheedfuneralhomes.ca.