Debra Ann (Richards) Thomas

Debra Ann (Richards) Thomas, 66, of Torrington passed away on January 15 at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital with loving family members by her side. 

Debra (Debbie to all who knew her) was born April 13, 1955 to Rene and Joan (Kelly) Richards. Debbie lived most of her life in Torrington except for a few years on Cape Cod and then a brief period in Florida where she met and fell in love with her husband Edward Thomas. Edward and Debbie would have celebrated their 42nd year of marriage on February 15th. 

Debbie worked in the office of multiple car dealerships, including as Office Manager until she joined her husband’s business, Thomas Automotive, as his office manager. 

Debbie was artistically gifted. She decorated cakes, beaded, crocheted, knitted among many other crafts. She funneled her love for crafting into her business called Kraftly Yours. Throughout the Fall Season you would find her at a different craft fair each weekend. 

Debbie’s greatest joy was her granddaughter, Emily. She loved spending time with her teaching her crafts, baking or supporting Emily in anything Emily was doing. 

Debbie is survived by her husband, Ed Thomas, their son and his wife, Shawn and Jennifer Thomas, her beloved granddaughter, Emily Thomas. She is also survived by her siblings and their spouses, Diane Boutin & Antoni Piotrowicz, Glenn and Jennifer Ford, Daniel & Debi Richards, Renee & Richard Chipman, Joan & Joseph Simone, several nieces and nephews and several great nieces.

The family would like to thank the nurses, doctors, and staff at Charlotte Hungerford for their care, kindness, and compassion during this difficult time.

A memorial celebration of Debbie’s life will be held on May 14 at 11 AM at First United Methodist Church.  Friends may call Friday May 13 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Phalen Funeral Home.  online memorials www.phalenfuneral.com

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