With a heavy heart we announce the passing of Debra Topliff. Beloved wife, mother, stepmother, grandmother, sister and friend.
Debra was born in Johnston, RI. The oldest of four children born to Mario and Doris Dalmazzi. Debra graduated from Johnston High School and went on to attend Our Lady of Fatima School of Nursing where she fulfilled her childhood dream of becoming a nurse.
Debra worked at several nursing homes in Rhode Island and retired from Eleanor Slater Hospital before moving to Conn. to make her home with her beloved husband Steve. After her retirement from her nursing career, Debra opened and successfully ran her own floral design business, Fantasy Florals & More, creating beautiful pieces for numerous weddings and other events.
Beside her husband Steve, Debra is survived by her children and stepchildren, whom she considered her own. John Vendettoli (Eva), Shanna Vendettoli, Philip Topliff and Julie Garceau (Paul).
She also leaves her precious grandchildren. Tyler, Krysta and Jaxon Vendettoli, Nicolas, Anthony and Austin Clark, Isabella, Gabriel and Jaseph Garceau.
Debra also leaves behind her loving siblings Beverly Bernier (Russ), Michael Dalmazzi (Maryanne) and Mario Dalmazzi(Sandra), nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, numerous cousins and friends. She was a treasured friend of Vivian Goldie
Debra is also survived by her loving K9 companion Avalon who was always by her side
Debra loved spending time with her beloved grandchildren. She also enjoyed being outdoors on their property where she tended her beautiful butterfly, flower and vegetable gardens. She enjoyed numerous trips to Florida, arts and craft projects and participating in the French American War Re-enactments at which her husband taught her to shoot, conquering her lifelong fear of guns. Debra won the prize as markswoman in her division.
As we grapple with the loss of her physical presence, we find solace in knowing that Debra’s spirit lives on through the grace and love she instilled in us. Rest in Peace with all your loved ones who predeceased you and all your precious pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge.
There will be a celebration of life held at a later date.
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