ROCKLAND — Deborah Marie (McGonagle) Donnelly passed away on December 28, 2024 after a brief illness at the age of 67.

Deb was born and raised in Reading, Massachusetts and went to college in Maine before returning to Boston. Deb spent many years working in the nonprofit world, including the American Cancer Society and Ronald McDonald House.

Deb married Michael Donnelly in 1995, had their son, Declan, in 1997 and moved to Rockland in 1998. Deb had various jobs including the YMCA, Hello-Hello Books and finally at Windward Gardens Nursing Home.

Deb was truly a special person, with a real gift for connecting with people she met. She had a way of making you feel heard and cared for. She was known and truly loved for her kindness, her caring nature and great sense of humor. In caring for her aging in-laws, they came to think of her as their daughter. Would that we were worthy of all she gave us and would share it forward.

Deb is survived by her husband, Michael; son Declan; and siblings Sharon Ricci of Westwood, Massachusetts, Patricia Relihan of North Andover and Michael McGonagle of Reading, Massachusetts, and many nieces and nephews.

"Remember me in your heart, your thoughts, and your memories. For if you always think of me, I will never have gone." -Margaret Mead

A celebration of life will be held in the Spring.

In remembrance of Deb's giving spirit, feel free to donate to the American Cancer Society at (https://donate.cancer.org/).

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Burpee Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home. To share a memory or condolence with Deborah’s family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.