Deborah June Arni, 59, of Thomaston, died peacefully in the arms of her children June 10 at her home, following an extended illness.
Born in Cushing, July 21, 1955, she was educated locally and was a 1974 graduate of Medomak Valley High School. Debbie was a strong woman with an enduring spirit. She was a hard worker, always working three jobs to support herself and her children. She often sacrificed her own comfort to make sure they had what they needed. She was generous, kind and loving. Each week when she picked her children up from school on Friday, they would walk to get an ice cream, something she had saved for throughout the week, ensuring they had a happy childhood.
Throughout her life Debbie has worked many jobs. She was a caregiver at heart, working as a private duty nurse for many years. On April 18, 1981 Debbie married Frederick ‘Fred’ Arni in Warren. Her nurturing spirit didn’t end at work, her devotion as a mother and wife continued as she cared for her ailing husband in later years. Her children were her number one priority and she loved nothing more than spending time with them and her grandchildren. Shopping trips were also favorite pastimes.
She was a Godly woman and had a strong faith. Even through all she endured, she never complained, but continued to worry about others, never wanting to be a burden. Debbie ended each day with words her children will carry in their hearts forever, ‘God Bless, Angels Protect.’
Debbie is survived by her beloved children, twin sons, Matthew Maxcy, and Marc Maxcy and wife Lizzy, all of Thomaston; daughter Danielle Arni and companion Corey Rytky of South Thomaston; adopted daughter Kristy Whitney of Hope; grandchildren, Amber, Liberty, McKenna, Kaylie, Branden, Maddox, Coral Marie, Alexis, Kaitlyn, Kaleb, Kody, and Asher; husband, Fred Arni of Torrington, Conn.; several brothers and sisters; and extended family members.
A celebration of Debbie’s life will be held at 3 p.m., Sat., June 27 at the home of her daughter, 71 Hill St., South Thomaston. Friends and family are invited (but not required) to bring a favorite dish to share, wear casual attire, and enjoy fireworks rain or shine to celebrate Debbie’s life.
To share a memory or condolence with her family, please visit her Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St., Rockland.