Debra Jean Lawrence

Colonie - The family of Debra Jean Lawrence is deeply saddened to announce her passing on August 6, 2024, at Albany Medical Center. Born in Albany, NY, on May 25, 1946, as Victoria Jean Patnode, Debbie was adopted at the age of nearly five in 1951 and became the beloved daughter of Alice and Daniel Oathoat, who predeceased her, along with her brother, Daniel Oathoat Jr. Though she never had the chance to know her birth mother, Elizabeth “Betty” Crevier (Patnode), who also predeceased her, Debbie always held her close in her heart.

Debbie leaves behind a loving family, including her children Peggy Shaw, Daniel Bonneau Jr., Thomas Bonneau, and Joseph (Heather) Wolodkevich Jr. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life and include Brian (Chelsea) Shaw Jr., Renee and Jacob Bonneau, Joey and Maggie Wolodkevich, as well as Bryson, Emma, and Bhodie Shaw. She is also survived by her cat and best buddy, Cuddles.

A dedicated caregiver, Debbie worked for many years as a home health aide, treating her patients like family. She later retired after years of service as a phlebotomist at the VA hospital.

Debbie’s life was marked by her love for volunteerism and community involvement. She was active in The Eastern Star, The Ladies Auxiliary, and various senior center groups in the communities where she lived. One of her greatest legacies to her family is the beautiful crocheted afghans she made with love, which will be treasured always.

Debbie will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Especially by her loving friends that she met at her apartment complex. They enjoyed playing bingo and farkle and participating in all of the activities offered together. We’d like to thank her friends at Bishop Broderick for their care in the last few months as she was so very grateful for their support.

The funeral services will be at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave. Colonie, NY 12205, on Monday, August 19, 2024 from 4-7pm.

In lieu of flowers we ask you to make donations to either  The Haven House Family Shelter (https://myhavenhouse.org/donate/) or Catholic Charities (https://secure.archny.org/site/Donation2;jsessionid=00000000.app20073a?idb=1829029198&df_id=9566&mfc_pref=T&9566.donation=form1&NONCE_TOKEN=3DBB18DCA32D3E9D48031322DD1C572D&9566donation=form1). To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com