Deborah L. (Wright) Gariepy

Gardner: Deborah L. (Wright) Gariepy, 72, of Gardner, formerly of Leominster, Quincy and Hamden, CT, passed away Monday, January 23, 2023, after a short illness. Debbie was born in Springfield, January 20, 1951, daughter of Shirley (Metcalfe) Wright and the late Crane Wright. Additionally, Deb leaves her beloved daughter Allison Scharf of Nashville, TN; her sister and best friend, Lori Morin and her husband, Brian, Leominster; her brother, Steven Wright and his wife, Karen, of Hampden; her first husband Tim Scharf; stepchildren, Alissa Scharf, Rebecca Scharf, and Michael Scharf; as well as her second husband Dan Gariepy, stepchildren Brian Gariepy and Eric Gariepy. Deb is also survived by nieces, nephews, grandchildren, godchildren and so many who called her their friend. Graduation from Hamden High School, and later education and training, led her to the medical field in a supportive role at facilities including Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston and the Nashoba Valley Medical Center in Ayer. Following her retirement she continued to care for people in other humanitarian ways with her volunteer work. Deb served as a volunteer for many years at several institutions including Ginny’s Helping Hand in Leominster, the Gardner Veteran’s Memorial Center and the Winchendon Community Action Committee, where she is remembered for her sense of humor and dedication to those in need. In a world that could have been a softer place, Debbie herself became a beacon of kindness and strength. She enjoyed gardening, being near the ocean and spending time with her family. She had an easy, infectious laugh, and a generous spirit. Debbie was a light and will be greatly missed by those lucky enough to know and love her. Her legacy is a reminder not only how far-reaching generosity can be, but how deep it takes root in the hearts that need it most. A Celebration of Life will be held in the Spring, when flowers are blooming. The Isabelle & Anderson Funeral Home, 316 Clarendon Street, Fitchburg is assisting the family with arrangements. For additional information or to leave an online condolence please visit their website at www.andersonfuneral.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Winchendon Community Action Committee, 273 Central Street, Winchendon, MA 01475

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Deborah L. (Wright) Gariepy

January 20, 1951 - January 23, 2023