Deborah Lynn Lilley

It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of Deborah Lynn Lilley, age 68, of Groton, Massachusetts. She passed away suddenly in her sleep on October 11, 2024.

Debbie was born on August 27, 1956, to Walter Elias Fix and Ethlynn Alberta Fix in Bronxville, New York. The youngest of three, after graduating from Bronxville High School in 1974, she went on to study Sociology at the College of Mount Saint Vincent and graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in 1979. 

Throughout her life, Debbie had worked at a battered women’s shelter and on the board of various childhood education institutions. She had written an advice column called “Dear Debbie” for over a decade. Most recently, she had been an administrative assistant; however, her primary and unending job was as a mother. A position to which she dedicated her entire heart. Through every passing moment, she lent her soul to her children and family.

Her life's accomplishments echo in the lives of her four sons, who she raised for the most part on her own, without a map or mentor to guide her. She held an entirely unmatched strength of will and character and a breath of patience and compassion that can only come from the depths of a person's soul. A woman who never thought herself grand was truly an unshakable mountain of compassion and love. The pinnacle of kindness and encouragement, she was a light in the lives of everyone she met. 

She is preceded by both her parents, and she is survived by her four sons, Jeffrey, Graham, Timothy, and Peter, her daughter-in-law Evie, and her first beloved grandson, Quentin. She is also survived by her sister Patricia, her brother Walter, and her cousins Carolyn and Joe. And, of course, her ever faithful schnauzer, Henry.

Debbie's departure from this world was sudden and shocking, and we will forever struggle with that loss. But she will reside in our hearts forever, her legacy and smile will continue to guide and inspire anyone who met her, and we can find solace that our smiles and best days will always resonate with the love she left in all our lives. 

Family and Friends will gather to honor and remember Deborah at her memorial service on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at 3:00 pm at First Parish in Groton, 1 Powderhouse Rd, Groton, MA.  If comfortable and able, the family requests you wear floral or bright, warm colors.

Arrangements under the care of Badger Funeral Home, 45 School Street, Groton, MA 01450  978-486-3709 www.badgerfuneral.com