Deberah Dorothy Kirkwood

Deberah Dorothy Kirkwood, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, was born on July 2, 1948, in Timmins, Ontario. She grew up in Warren, Ontario as the only girl in the family with seven brothers. She peacefully passed away on March 17, 2024, at Gatineau Hospital, surrounded by her loving sons. Deberah resided in Hull, Quebec, and leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering compassion.

Deberah is survived by her sons, Bart and Zane, her cherished grandchildren, Tavin and Ixchel, her loving brothers, Randy and Brian, and her beloved cat Bentley, whom she adored beyond measure.

Known affectionately as "Deb" to her friends and neighbours in the Eddy Street community, Deberah was a beacon of light, spreading joy and warmth wherever she went. She found immense joy in caring for the flowers and plants in front of her building, ensuring that everyone could enjoy their beauty as they walked by on their way to work.

Deberah's outgoing and friendly nature endeared her to all who had the pleasure of crossing her path. She possessed a rare gift of seeing the beauty in every soul, regardless of appearance or social status. Her love for animals was unparalleled, and they reciprocated her affection wholeheartedly.

In her professional life, Deberah worked tirelessly as a waitress at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto for many years before embarking on a new journey in her 40s. She pursued her passion for gerontology, becoming a dedicated Personal Support Worker (PSW) for the elderly. Her clients adored her, and she treated them with the utmost respect and compassion, always striving to provide the best care possible.

Deberah enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, including long car rides in the countryside with a cup of coffee, engaging in arts and crafts, and solving puzzles, often with her beloved cat Bentley as her faithful companion. She was a woman of integrity, speaking from the heart and standing up for what she believed was right.

Deberah cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren, creating lasting memories and embarking on exciting adventures together. She took great pride in watching them grow and thrive, imparting wisdom and guidance along the way.

A celebration of Deberah's life will be held at a later date in April. All who knew and loved Deberah are welcome to attend and pay their respects.

She will be laid to rest alongside her family in Warren, Ontario where she grew up.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Papineau Animal Rescue Group (tmalloch@sympatico.ca), in honour of Deberah's memory.

Though Deberah may no longer be with us physically, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by her love, kindness, and indomitable spirit. May she rest in peace, knowing that she made the world a brighter place for all who knew her.