Thursday, November 6, 2025
I lost a beautiful friend last year and I think of her often. On the day of her passing, Debby was surrounded by her cherished children, Reverend John, Chris and Emily, and other loving relatives.
It was a blistering hot afternoon but suddenly, the heavens opened up and poured torrential rain upon us. It was as if the angels were crying… but then, the sun shone brightly as Debby was greeted by her Lord.
Deborah Elizabeth Lynch Satula had been a daughter, a sister, a wife, a mother, an aunt, a great aunt, a cousin, an attorney, a broker, a history buff and a great cook!
She was as smart as a whip and remained that way for as long as I knew her... but for me, first and foremost, she had been my friend for sixty-four years, ever since we first met at Manhattanville College of the Sacred Heart in 1960.
In sophomore year, the two of us and our respective roommates were assigned to adjacent rooms in Spellman Hall. We would often sneak into Debby's room after "Lights out," to watch snippets of Jack Paar, Johnny Carson’s predecessor on The Tonight Show, or enjoy Mrs. Lynch's brownies as a late-night snack after hours of studying.
Debby was a staunch supporter of President John F. Kennedy, which made the tragic event of November 22,1963 particularly overwhelming for her. But like the trooper that she always was whenever called upon, she joined the whole college population for a beautiful Requiem Mass in the O’Byrne Chapel, and later volunteered to help address thank you notes from Jackie Kennedy to her hundreds of thousands of sympathizers.
Debby often spoke of her Mom, Dad, her sister Barbara and her in-laws. How thrilled “Aunt D” was to share photos of her very first nephew and eventually, of all of Barbara and Fred's other children and grandchildren, and to rave about their academic accomplishments as well!
Through the years Debby was of great comfort to many. She was a lady of faith and courage who made dedication to God, family, and friends her life's work.
But… every once in a while she'd sneak in a trip to Talbots so she could always look perfect when showing homes to her real estate clients. Many of her purchases were in shades of green to compliment her lovely eyes… and if it happened to be February, we would often enjoy a birthday lunch at Lusardi’s.
Debby’s love and advice have left an indelible mark on her wonderful children....
There was seldom a conversation that didn't include John, Chris, Emily, Sabrina, Dawn or Steve.
When we spoke by phone, more often than not she would have to click over to accept an incoming call. When she returned she would usually say;
"You know the Satula boys, they are always calling me,” or “ Emily wants to know what to bring home for dinner tonight."
Debby’s children provided her greatest joy!
Her dedication to them, to the memory of her beloved husband,Tony, and to her church were tantamount. Debby loved everything about a traditional Christmas, real trees, vintage ornaments and especially the family festivities.
She relished her time as a member of the church choir, and was, of course, disappointed when COVID interfered with that.
Her love of animals added another dimension to her generous spirit. Her dog, Willow, and her cat, Marci, were always looking for her. I’m sure Debby’s children will make sure these pets are well taken care of.
Debby’s son, Christopher, said,
"Now Mom’s with Dad.”
I’m sure that is true…
But Debby will always remain in our HEARTS and in our MEMORIES too. (Maria Perrotta Gennarelli)
