NASHUA, N.H. – On the evening of Wednesday April 3, 2024, the world began to shine less bright as one of the sweetest, strongest, most loving woman passed away unexpectedly; Our mother, our angel, Debra Lee (Shank) Legendre.

Debbie was born in Nashua, N.H. on Dec. 13, 1965. In her early life, she fell in love with Joseph “Jay” Legendre. She worked multiple jobs from healthcare to factory work. In 1986, Debbie and Joseph had their first born, from there, being a mom was Deb’s life’s mission and together, they had five children, Jess, Rhonda, Joseph, Justin and Hollie. Her children were her greatest life treasures. Deb cherished and loved her family more than anything.

In 2000, Deb and Joseph packed up all the kids and moved to Mount Vernon and that’s where they raised the kids. In 2004, Debbie suffered a a traumatic brain injury. Given all of her medical difficulties, this never stopped her from being the most selfless, loving, and caring mother to her children and to anyone she met. Her second greatest treasure was when she became a Nana to all of her grandchildren. Along with being a mom and a Nana, she was also loved greatly by her sisters Patty, Rhonda, and Barbie. Patty is Deb’s youngest sister who loved Deb endlessly and throughout their lives, their bond was unbreakable.

Debbie’s life was far from easy. The last couple years especially; But that never stopped her from being full of light, love, compassion and understanding. To know her, was to love her with every fiber you have. She had a deep love for cooking, singing and listening to music, Bingo, doing her makeup, watching movies, long car rides, and most importantly- spending time with her family. The mark that she’s left on this world is etched for eternity. She always prayed to the brightest stars in the sky, and the day she passed away, we know she was greeted with open arms by her mom and our sister. She is incredibly loved and missed beyond comprehension. “It’s not goodbye, it’s see ya latah, baby cakes.” -Debbie Legendre.

Debbie was predeceased by her loving mother, Shirley (Surdam) Shank; her daughter, Rhonda Ann (Legendre) Bubier; multiple aunts and uncles. Her spirit lives on with her sisters Barbara (Shank) Pratt, Rhonda (Shank) Larochelle, her loving sister Patricia Shank; her father, Edward Shank; her children, Jess Legendre, Joseph “Joe” Legendre, Justin Legendre, her youngest daughter, Hollie (Legendre) Butera; grandchildren; cousins; nieces and nephews.

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