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Debra J. (Patricelli) Derochea, a lifelong resident of West Bridgewater, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at Boston Medical Brockton, Massachusetts surrounded by her family, on June 18, 2026, at the age of 68.
Born in Brockton on January 3, 1958, she was the daughter of John Patricelli and Mary Nordgren. Debra was raised with strong family ties and a deep appreciation for the people she loved, values that remained with her throughout her life. She spent her life in the community she called home and was known by those around her as a warm, friendly, and caring presence.
Debbie graduated from Bridgewater Raynham High School, Class of 1976, and remained a proud lifelong resident of West Bridgewater. She worked in housekeeping at Good Samaritan Hospital, where she was respected for her reliability, dedication, and quiet kindness. Her work reflected the same thoughtful spirit she brought to her family and friends, and she took pride in doing her part with care and consistency.
Family was central to Debbie’s life, and she cherished the many relationships that surrounded her. She was the mother of Melissa Patricelli of Canton and David Derochea and his wife Gretchen of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee. She was the beloved sister of Patricia Fandrich and her husband Otto of Bridgewater, Pamela Patricelli of Avon, and Gale McHugo and her husband Michael of Canton. She was also the half sister of Traci Harrington of Taunton, Angel Patricelli of West Bridgewater, and Adrienne Patricelli of Florida, as well as the step sister of Connie Reed of Avon and Laura Spooner of Florida and many nieces and nephews. Debbie was a proud grandmother to Samuel Poch, Alana Lowney, and Claire Derochea, and she treasured each of them deeply. She is also survived by her beloved four-legged friend, her dog Zeke, who brought her great comfort and companionship.
Debbie found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. She loved music and singing, and those who knew her will remember how much happiness she found in a favorite song or a familiar tune. She was a member of Good Shepherd Church in Easton, where her faith and fellowship were an important part of her life. She also loved to travel, camp, and spend time at the beach and sitting by the Cape Cod Canal. Flea markets were among her favorite places to browse, and she delighted in blankets and powdered donuts, small pleasures that brought her lasting joy. She never showed up empty handed because gift giving was one of her favorite things to do.
Those who knew Debbie will remember her as someone who lived with heart, humility, and a genuine love for her family and the world around her. She carried herself with quiet strength and a gentle spirit, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and treasured memories. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Debbie will be remembered with love and gratitude by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. Her memory will remain a comfort to those who loved her, and her life will be honored for the kindness, warmth, and devotion she shared so freely.
Relatives & friends are invited to attend visiting hours at the Dockray & Thomas Funeral Home, Canton, on Wednesday, July 1st, from 4-6:30 p.m. A prayer service will be held immediately following the visiting hours at 6:30 p.m. Burial will be private for the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Debra Derochea, please visit our floral store.