Debra Ruth Diaz

Debbie grew up in Laurelton, Queens, NY, and graduated from Lindenhurst HS in NY, where she then married the late Robert Gensheimer. They had one daughter, Diana. Although the marriage ended, they remained friends with immense respect for one another.

Debbie took pride in her jobs, and rarely ever missed a day of work. As a hostess at the Concord Diner, she met the love of her life, Jose Diaz. The two married on March 24, 1997, and eventually moved to Jacksonville, FL. They had two children together, Joseph and Marissa. She went on to work as a school bus driver, in construction, and lastly, as a shuttle bus driver at the Jacksonville International Airport.

Debbie’s absolute passion was her family. Nothing meant more to her in this life than time spent with them and spoiling her grandchildren. She enjoyed camping, tubing down the springs, dining out, fishing, bargain hunting, yard sales, and especially making holidays and birthdays extra special. A jokester with a contagious laugh and a smile that would light up the room, Debbie was loved by everyone, and they loved her in return. Her loss is tremendous to all who had the privilege of being a part of her life.

Debbie is survived by her husband, Jose Diaz; children, Diana Mott (Thomas Jr.), Joseph Diaz, and Marissa Hickox (Aaron); five beloved grandchildren, Thomas III, Brianna, Braelynn, Trenton, and Eli; mother, Ruth McGrath; siblings, Charlie McGrath (Debbie), Gail Lively, and Nicole Snow (Randy); sister-in-law, Debbie McGrath; nephews, Charlie, Jr., Anthony, and Robbie; nieces, Dana, Dawn, Mindy, Megan, Skylar, and Sophia.

Debbie was preceded in death by her father, Louis McGrath Jr., brother Louie McGrath III, Nephew Louis McGrath, IV, and brother-in-law, Elmer Lively.

Visitation is 5-7pm Monday August 23, 2021 at Hardage-Giddens Riverside Funeral Home, 7242 Normandy Blvd Jacksonville, FL 32205. Funeral Service is 12pm Tuesday August 24th at Hardage-Giddens Riverside Funeral Home with interment to follow at Riverside Memorial Park.