Debra Ann Molinaro

Debbie A. Molinaro, a resident of Newtown, Connecticut, passed away unexpectedly in her home prior to New Year's Eve at the age of 64. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and a lifetime of accomplishments. Debbie is survived by her beloved mother, Gloria Molinaro; her sister, Tammie Fiske, and brother-in-law, Eric Fiske; her brother, James J. Molinaro, Jr., and sister-in-law, Connie Molinaro; her niece and goddaughter, Catherine Fiske; her nephew, Ethan Fiske; her great aunt, Virginia; numerous cousins and friends, and her cherished feline companions, Tigerlily, Brenda, and Eddie. She is preceded in death by her father, James J. Molinaro Sr.

Born on July 11, 1959, in the Bronx, New York, Debbie moved with her family to Suffern in December 1966. In her youth, Debbie exhibited determination and a pioneering spirit, being one of the first girls to deliver newspapers. She even petitioned Governor Nelson Rockefeller, advocating that women were equally capable of performing the task. Her versatility stood out as she excelled in her extracurricular activities such as lacrosse, Happiness Band, and church choir. She played guitar on her own, as well as both the clarinet and sousaphone in the Suffern High School band before graduating with excellence in 1977.

Following a year at Fairfield University, Debbie embarked on a journey with the United States Navy, stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii, where she served as a machinist and gold plater. After an honorable discharge, she worked for Reynolds in Hawaii before returning to New York. While continuing her education, Debbie worked for Molinaro Appraisals, Grant Pulley & Hardware, and Materials Research Corporation. In 1989, she graduated from Manhattan College with a B.A. in Communications and a concentration in Journalism.

Debbie's career path led her to Sony, following the acquisition of Materials Research Corporation, where her expertise in running machines and outstanding writing skills propelled her to the role of technical writer. In 1997, she established her own business for technical writing, providing contract services to prominent companies such as Bayer, Carl Zeiss, and Micromuse. In 2002, she relocated to Connecticut to be closer to her niece and nephew.

Her dedication and talents found a home at IPC Information Systems LLC in Fairfield, Connecticut, where she worked for over two decades as a technical writer and later as a team leader in technical publications. Her commitment and contributions earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues.

Debbie's generosity extended far beyond her own circles, as she devoted her time, talent, and resources to various organizations and causes close to her heart. A staunch advocate and activist for both women’s rights as well as lesbian and gay rights, she actively participated in multiple women's marches throughout her life and attended several of the marches in Washington DC. She was a part of the Rockland County chapter of NOW (National Organization of Women) as well as many other organizations. She always spoke up for those in need and always advocated for equal rights for all.

Having begun her journey as a first-class Girl Scout, Debbie continued to champion scouting programs by sponsoring scholarships for aspiring scouts, serving as a leader, and supporting her niece and nephew in attaining the highest ranks in scouting. Throughout her life, she supported the Girl Scout Council of Rockland County, she was a lifeguard and counselor at Camp Addison Boyce and was a member of the Kamikaze Kanoers. Debbie continued her involvement with scouting by assisting teaching badges to her niece’s Girl Scout troop, including the Local Food badge.

In addition to her work with the Girl Scouts, Debbie showcased her culinary prowess, excelling in cooking, baking, and mixology. A passionate supporter of the local food movement since 2011, she crafted a completely local Thanksgiving feast for her family for over a decade. Her enthusiasm extended to attending various food festivals, including the Vermont Cheese Festival, Bethlehem Garlic Festival, and the Feast of Ferragosto in Arthur Avenue. Committed to sharing her culinary experiences, Debbie maintained a food blog for many years, meticulously detailing her recipes and which farm each ingredient originated from.

Beyond the kitchen, Debbie embraced literature and writing as integral parts of her life. Actively engaged in a book club, she found solace and inspiration in the written word, using her own writing as a creative outlet. A true patron of the arts, Debbie showcased her passion by organizing shows with friends at local clubs, attending a myriad of both small and large-scale concerts, and nurturing a deep love for cinema throughout her lifetime. Her diverse interests and unwavering support for the causes she believed in have left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to have known her.

Debbie's life was marked by resilience, passion, and a love for her family and furry companions. She will be remembered for her tenacity, creativity, and the positive impact she made in the lives of those around her. Her absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but her spirit and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The wake for Debbie A. Molinaro will be held on January 19th at Michael J. Higgins Funeral Service Inc., located at 321 South Main Street, New City, New York 10956. Calling hours are scheduled between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM.

The funeral service is set to take place on January 20th at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, situated at 84 Ehrhardt Road, Pearl River, New York 10965. Burial will promptly follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to either Whiskers Pet Rescue at PO Box 367, Southbury, CT 06488 (or you can make a donation on their website whiskerspetrescue.com) or to Camp Addison Boyce, c/o 30 Scott’s Corners Drive #201, Montgomery, New York 12549 (please designate your gift to “Camp Funds CAB”). Your contributions in Debbie's memory will be deeply appreciated. May she rest in peace.