Deborah B. Fogarty

Deborah (Debbie) Brasz Fogarty passed away on October 18, 2023, at the age of 71. Born on October 26, 1951, she was the devoted daughter of Louis and Florence Brasz, who preceded her in death. Debbie is survived by her loving husband John, her adored children Thomas (Arianna) and Sarah (Molly Watters), and her cherished granddaughters Madeline and Emma. She is also survived by her beloved brother Marc Brasz.

Debbie was a graduate of Brandeis University and NYU Law. Her dedication to justice led her to become a labor lawyer for the Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers Union and the U.S. Department of Labor. She left practicing law to devote herself to raising her children, Thomas and Sarah. She was an active participant in their schools' parent organizations and a regular spectator at their many games and activities.

After Thomas and Sarah left for college, Debbie participated in the NYC Teaching Fellows program and became a social studies teacher and moot court coach at Francis Lewis High School. There she found her true professional passions.

Debbie was an avid Mets fan and could often be found at Shea Stadium and later Citi Field, enthusiastically supporting her team. In the Summer, if she wasn’t at Citi Field, Debbie loved spending time at Flying Point Beach in Southampton, chatting with friends and enjoying the water. She also had a deep appreciation for the arts, with a particular love for ballet and theater.

Debbie was determined to lead a full and active life despite suffering from serious illnesses and their after effects for over forty years--and she did it.

Debbie's legacy lives on through the lives she touched, the wisdom she imparted, the love and laughter she shared with her family and friends, and and the example of determination she set. She will be deeply missed and remembered fondly by all who were fortunate enough to have her in the Fogarty family.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Debbie's memory to:

Francis Lewis High School, for the purposes of the Social Studies Department Moot Court Team.

Address:

Francis Lewis High School, Social Studies Department Moot Court Team

58-20 Utopia Parkway, Fresh Meadows, NY 11365, Room 116

or

North Shore Animal League

Address is: 25 Davis Ave, Port Washington, NY 11050

Donations to the North Shore Animal League can also be made via their website.

or a charity of your choice.

A memorial service for Deborah will be held Wednesday, October 25, 2023 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Schwartz Brothers-Jeffer Memorial Chapels, 114-03 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Family will receive friends from 10:30 to 11:30 prior to the service.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sbjmemorialchapel.com for the Fogarty family.