Debra (Moscaritolo) Centracchio

Debra Centracchio, cherished wife, mother, sister, cousin, and friend, passed away June 1st, after a brief battle with an illness. 

Born September 16, 1956, the daughter of Nicholas and Yola Moscaritolo, Debbie was raised in Orient Heights, spending many of her summers with cousins in Bedford. She graduated from Pope John High School, where she was a cheerleader, a theme that animated her life, and went on to attend Plymouth State College, studying early childhood education. In 1979, Debbie married Al Centracchio and the couple moved to Marblehead, where she raised her daughters, and was beloved by all in the community fortunate enough to have known her. She worked many years as a preschool teacher, before a career transition to the mortgage department at National Grand Bank. Debbie had a kind word of encouragement for everyone and her warmth was infectious. She met every challenge flung in her path with unparalleled grace and courage.

Debbie will be missed by her loving husband of 43 years, Al, her two devoted daughters, Mandy (Jeffrey) Lizama, and Ashley (Reza) Haery, her two adored grandchildren Kai and Ava Lizama, and granddog Cooper Haery. She leaves to their grief sisters Ella Moscaritolo and Donna (Steve) Bruno, brother Patrick (Elizabeth) Moscaritolo, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was predeceased by her mother and father.

Debbie was a remarkable example of a life informed by joy, and laughter. She loved the color pink, and carrot cake; she signed every text with an XO. She will never be forgotten and will be eternally missed. In the words of A.A. Milne “how lucky are we to have known someone that makes saying goodbye so difficult.” 

Family and friends are invited to bid goodbye June 6th, 4PM to 8PM to Ruggiero Funeral Home, 971 Saratoga St, East Boston, MA.  A funeral mass will be held June 7th at 11AM at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, 85 Atlantic Ave, Marblehead, MA.  

A Scholarship will be established in her name, donations can be sent to: Marblehead Dollars for Scholars PO Box 4 Marblehead, MA. 01945. Attn: Debbie Centracchio Memorial Scholarship. A memorial fund has also been established in loving memory of Debbie.  If you would like to donate, you may do so at http://danafarber.jimmyfund.org/goto/DebraCentracchio