Deborah Gray Tamburello

It is with sadness and love that we announce the passing of our mother, Deborah Gray Tamburello.  She passed away peacefully on December 10, 2022, in the company of the children that she loved so much and who loved her beyond measure in return. 

Deborah grew up on Long Island and loved the ocean, reminiscing often about the times she would get off the school bus and go right in for a swim.  Her sister, Theresa, who preceded her in death, was always by her side, cheering Deb on, lifting her up, and carrying on the traditions that made their bond so unique and so strong.  Throughout the middle part of her life, Deb made her way to Hackettstown, New Jersey to raise a family.  She was known townwide as a friendly face who was kind to everyone she met.  During her time in Hackettstown, she raised three children on her own, always making sure they had everything they could ever need or want, including so much love.  As a single parent, she worked tirelessly to provide for her children, working as a legal secretary in Chester, NJ for more than 20 years.  

In Deb’s later years, she moved to a new home, Easton, PA where her children settled to raise their own families.  Deb was a remarkable grandmother to her six (soon to be seven) grandchildren.  She spent as much time with them as she could and would always be there for each of them, even as the schedules of six school-age grandchildren became like a full-time job.  She would be there, no matter what.  And her grandchildren loved her deeply.

Deb touched people’s lives in quiet but, palpable ways.  She was a humble, loyal, and beautiful soul who gave everything she could to her family.  She will be forever missed by those whose lives she touched.

Deborah is survived by her children, Michael, Christopher, and Lisa, their partners and spouses, Marisa McFadden, Alison Tamburello, and Troy Haydt, and her grandchildren, Alice, Lily, Julia, Phoebe, Jackson, and Frances.  She also leaves behind nieces Jennifer Giampapa, and Lauren and Rebecca Kennedy, whom she adored.  

Services for Deb will be private.  Condolences can be sent to Finegan Funeral Home in Phillipsburg, New Jersey.  Deborah’s children would like to encourage those who loved her to think of her fondly whenever you see the ocean.  Her spirit is there, swimming in the waves, laughing with her sister, Theresa.