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Deborah Maher Obituary
She was a world class opera singer having sung with the Vienna State Opera, and performed at Lincoln Center. For many years she was an accomplished artist and voice teacher at her studios in Titusville and in New York City. A patron of the arts, she was an inspiration and a sponsor to undiscovered talent. She is accredited with co-forming "The Opera Project" located in Lambertville.
Deborah was the Jewish Community Center's Cultural Arts Director in Ewing where she co-founded the Carousel program for teens and young adults with special needs, and starred in the HBO special, "Apple Dreamers." For nearly 40 years she sang the "National Anthem" and "God Bless America" for the Titusville 4th of July Parade and was once recognized as the parade's guest of honor.
Deborah graduated from Trenton State College with a degree in speech therapy. She attended the Academy of Vocal Arts, Juilliard School, Curtis Institute of Music, and University of California Berkeley music school.
Daughter of the late Max and Sylvia Covener, widow of Peter Paul Maher, she is survived by one son, Seth and his fiancé Ali, one brother, Stanford, her grandsons, Shane and Brendan, her granddaughter, Dewina, great-granddaughter, Eliana, two stepsons, Paul and Sean, her partner, Fred Cushman, beloved extended family and countless friends.
A celebration of her life will be announced at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to "The Opera Project" at http://theoperaproject.us/1.html
Arrangements are under the direction of the Garefino Funeral Home in Lambertville. For further information or to send condolences visit www.GarefinoFuneralHome.com.
Memories and Condolences
for Deborah Maher
Maryann Golding
July 26, 2025
Wish you were still here dear friend ( from AVA). I miss you and would love to see you and talk with you one more time.
Hayley Stefanelli
March 26, 2025
Deborah was my godmother Kaja Donovan´s voice teacher, and then mine from age 8 for several years. She introduced me to the group Kids Music Round, where I had the opportunity to record our music to play at children´s music camps, schools, etc. Deborah was one of those people who you felt before you saw. Her aura, her energy, was larger than life and yet so grounded, so unfalteringly kind. She did not teach music, she WAS music, in human form. Her laugh was a symphony, her wisdom the loveliest lullaby. I remember her sat at her piano, beautiful scarves of chiffon and velvet always artfully draped, face bare of all but her signature lipstick and face framed by a halo of black curls. When she performed at Carnegie Hall, I think I was about 9, and myself and several other of her children students attended. After her performance, she invited us on stage with her. That was who she was. The kind of woman who went out of her way to spread joy, share the light, shining like the star she was throughout it all. I´m 34 now, and I still think of her every single time I sing, which these days is usually just in the shower or the car. She´s still here, in each of us whose lives she touched, carrying on her legacy.
If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever. Being taught by you was my greatest honor.
-Hayley, New Hope PA
Carolyn
July 25, 2024
Lovely to feel connected with all these people who shared life with Deborah. Now let us sing!
Carolyn Allenby, from Copper Penny Players
Maryann Golding
July 24, 2024
Thank you for this reminder of a beautiful life well lived. I miss you Deborah.
Maryann Kerrick Golding (friend from AVA)
Patty
January 21, 2024
Deborah was my vocal coach, she was also my friend and mentor..she once gave me a beautiful scarf that I have draped over a mirror in my dining room, for some reason I was drawn to it this morning, then a few hours later I was searching for something on my phone and her obituary popped up..
Deborah I miss you terribly..Continue to rest easy my friend...
All my love and prayers..
Patty
Yonah Schurink
July 24, 2023
Deborah was a light that will keep shining in all our hearts. Mine is full of it and give it generously to all that are in my life. You were my teacher and guide.
Thank you my dear friend. You are missed. Love Yonah
Maryann C Golding
July 25, 2022
Where is the memorial for Deborah located. I would like to visit it.
Maryann Golding
Carolyn Allenby
July 24, 2022
Thank you Deborah, one of the most inspirational and influential persons in my life. Thank you for guiding me in my music back in the nineties, when I was forty-something, which has become a multifaceted reality of my life now, in my 60's. Loved the lessons in the light filled room in Titusville. Echoed by the light-filled room of Diana's in Manhattan where I sang with my daughter, whose early speech problem was cured by you when as a pre-schooler she had the first ten minutes of our lesson. What a great time when you had a birthday concert in Carnegie Hall! All our love to all her family and students and community.
Yonah Schurink
July 28, 2021
To Seth, Ali, Shane and family,
Now already 8 years ago that Deborah left this earth plane.
I miss her deeply, have so many fond memories of her
We new each other for 45 years. That is a long time of sharing our lives stories. Being part of the family was an honor that I carry deeply in my heart.
The lamp you gave me with your paintings on it has an important place in my house and gives the light that you so generously gave to so many people. Keep on shining. I love you so much. Yonah
LISA WOODFORD
July 24, 2021
I still think of the influence that Deborah had on my life, all these years later.
She was so much more than my voice teacher. She was so caring and knew me without me even having to say much. She was a voice of wisdom. I so wish I had listened to her advice when I was young.
I think of her often, especially when I ride my bike past the big white house in Titusville where I had my lessons.
Love you always, Deborah.
July 24, 2020
Deborah and I went to school at The Academy of Vocal Arts. I miss her and think of our many times together often. She was a real friend. My thoughts continue to be with Sean and Deborah’s extended family. Maryann Golding
Francine Papero
May 25, 2014
Dearest Deborah.
Today is your birthday. The memories are bright and i miss you still.
Love you forever. Your glorious voice echoing forever in my heart.
Love,
Francine
January 30, 2014
My sister and I just found out today, and are deeply sorry for you and your family. Your mother was a magical spirit. Her love was infectious, her spirit was captivating, her beauty was breathtaking. She selflessly shared her life with all she met. Inspiring without effort. You are her legacy, you are her soul, and share her energy for life. Sending peace. Much love,
Jocelyn
Susan Dunney Holzmer
November 2, 2013
Dear Seth and family,
I learned just today of Deborah's passing. She clearly touched so many lives in so many ways. When you were with her, you were The Most Important Person in the world. That, friends, is a characteristic of a truly extraordinary person and one she shared with Peter. SO blessed am I that I knew both of them. Debora is a bright and beautiful light that shines on!
Ernest's Back Yard Memorial Site
October 28, 2013
Mike Dooey
October 18, 2013
Dear Deborah. I called you Debra. I will always remember and thank you for everything that you had done for me. You were a saint to me. You taught me to appreciate a type of singing that I wish that I could have done. You respected my pop music. You taught me things in music and life that I will always be very grateful to you for. I remember painting your fence and I will always remember your Holiday party at Christmas. I remember Peter. Seth was young in those days. I just wanted to add this note to express my most sincere gratitude to you. I have always thanked and respected you very much. You were a fantastic singer and a fantastic person. You always will be that person to me. I will always keep you in my prayers.
Melissa Craig
October 18, 2013
Dear Deborah, What an inspiration you will continue to be. Your zest for life and vibrant singing will live on in our hearts forever! Peace be to you.
Two purple peas in the family pod
Arlene Rabin
September 3, 2013
My beloved cousin, who taught me to clothe in purple and see the beauty in the world around me, you will never be forgotten. Love, Arlene
Lydia Afia
August 23, 2013
In Memory and Celebration
of Our Beloved Deborah
It's a bit like pondering infinity,
really--
to reflect on the near quarter-century
that I have known You.
From the day that my Beloved Yonah
first brought me into Your home, family
heart,
when I arm-wrestled with Seth,
and read my poetry
from the living room floor
to You, Peter and Your parents.
Twenty-four years ago, in Amsterdam,
You sang at our wedding.
Together, we celebrated decades
of performances, galley openings
and special occasions.
Long walks, and even longer talks,
about living, loving, music, art, health
and sacred woundings.
You, ever the Diva,
and down-to-earth friend,
who, in everyone, could see beauty
and encourage their special gifts.
The universe echoes with our laughter
and reverberates
with Your song!
Even more than You will be missed,
You will be remembered.
Your passing from us
is like the collapse of a supernova,
shattering it's form,
only to give birth
to ten thousand more
diamond lights.
Forever, I will hear Your voice singing
"Summertime...and the livin' is easy"
in my heart,
in the music of the night
and in the music of the spheres,
in that larger-than-life key
of the Divine Lady D.
My love and condolences to you, Seth, Shane, Fred, Ali and family.
Yonah Schurink
August 23, 2013
My dear Deborah, Seth and family, and Fred
Thoughts and prayers are with you all in these difficult times of mourning.
Deborah came into my life when I first moved to America from Holland. I felt lost, she grounded me. She just loved and accepted me for who I was and I loved her oh so much back.
She took me into her family, Seth you were still a toddler. I loved watching your Mom cherish you and read you stories every night. I would lay in bed with the both of you and took in the love that filled the room.
We were close friends for many years. I shared a lot of events with you and your family, good ones and sad ones. Just the way life is.
This is the saddest event to be with. I miss your Mom so much. She was a beautiful soul, always giving of herself with dedication and love. She also knew how to celebrate life and everybody in her life. She loved people and was able to always lift them up when they were down.
Seth know that your Mother was very proud of you, loved you to pieces and dedicated her life to you and Shane.
I love you Seth, know that I am there for you when you need me.
I say fare well to you Deborah, may your soul be in the light and in peace and may your beautiful song fill the heavens.
With admiration and love your friend Yonah
Fred, Deborah & Berry
Debra Borchert
August 22, 2013
Deborah and Friend at the Farm
Debra Borchert
August 22, 2013
Rhoda Rogers
August 22, 2013
Deborah's light, a warm and affectionate tender soul, will forever grace this universe, her family and friends. I cared about her and loved her. I also met her through Copper Pennies and took a few lessons. She was earthy and heavenly all wrapped up into one special person. Love.
Carolyn Allenby
August 19, 2013
Dear Friends and Family,
Thanks for all your shared memories of our friend and teacher. I met her shortly after starting to sing with the Copper Penny Players around 1990. When I started lessons with her, I had a pre-school daughter who is now in her twenties. Daughter had a speech problem with "f"... she was turning either 4 or 5, and Deborah had her sing it as her ten minutes of my lesson. Problem solved! Here is her memory:
I have wonderful magical childhood memories of her, her house, the rug I played on, her telling me to breathe and teaching me to sing castle in the cloud, that candle she gave me, you two at the piano..
Thank you Deborah!
love, Carolyn Allenby, Paradise Valley, Arizona
Lisa Woodford
August 18, 2013
I met Deborah while at Trenton State College and studied voice with her. She was my mentor, confidante and second mother. She always believed in me. I loved her and I am deeply saddened to hear of her passing. I know in my heart that she is singing with the angels. I will always hold her close to my heart and I will never forget her beautiful soul and amazing voice. Rest in peace, beautiful Deborah. I miss you.
Mc Alevey George
August 18, 2013
We will remember Deborah always for her beauty, class and smile. Her funny, real and generous personality.
The room always felt special when Deborah was in it.
Love you George and Will
August 18, 2013
Dear Deborah, So sorry that I will have to miss your wonderful celebration. You were such a great influence and encouragement with all my singing endeavors. I have thought about you ever since, and do have regrets that I did not keep in touch the least few years. I believe you will receive this message anyhow, and I am sure you are singing in the great beyond. Blessings on your journey...fondly, Carol Day
Deborah looking radiant in the Aegean sunlight, May 2011
Fred Miller
August 8, 2013
Dear Deborah,
So much to miss, not least of all, the One to whom I automatically always sent anyone wanting to work on his/her singing voice. I look forward to our public Celebration for you on August 24, hearing your colorful praises sung both literally & figuratively by so many. What a special soul you always will be, in this life and whatever's beyond. Rest in eternal peace, dear old friend. XO XO
Nancy Supko
August 6, 2013
I just learned of Deborah's passing. Deborah was a beautiful, caring soul who shared her many talents with us and we are all the more fortunate for having known her or having experienced one of her performances or admiring her art. My sympathies to all.
Holding Seth
July 31, 2013
Deborah and Peter
July 31, 2013
With Granddaughter Dewina
July 31, 2013
Deborah with Bill Clinton
July 31, 2013
Deborah and Peter's Wedding Day
July 31, 2013
Susan Myers
July 24, 2013
Susan Myers
July 24, 2013
Carla Mau
July 23, 2013
I doubt that I will ever meet anyone as amazing as you, Deborah. You were wonderful - wonderful to everyone! I love you and miss you. Seth, Shane, and Fred - you are in my thoughts. How hard this must be for you ...
Neil Dorans
July 14, 2013
You entered my life through Fred. I wish I had met you sooner, but am thankful for the brief time I knew you. Shortly after we met, you were afflicted with that dreadful disease. You faced that challenge forthrightly, with a steely determination to beat daunting odds. A force of nature unwillingly to yield without a fight, you lived the last years of your life the way we all should. With remarkable courage, you fought on for the many you loved, including yourself.
I will never forget when you and Fred sang Happy Birthday to me last summer at Siam. It was in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, however, during your last autumn that I got to know you best. I smile when I recall how Doc Martin episodes allayed your anxiety on election night until we turned on the radio to hear that it was all settled.
I take solace in knowing that your spirit lives on in the memories of each of us who were lucky to have been touched, taught, and loved by the gift of nature known as Deborah. My own memories of you include unforgettable examples of how to cope with adversity and of how to revel in the joy of living.
July 14, 2013
Deborah was a beautiful woman and she will be missed. I am thankful that I was fortunate enough to know her.
May comfort be the constant companion of those who were close to her.
With Love,
Nicole S. Arioso
July 14, 2013
Deborah and I went to The Academy of Vocal Arts together. We stayed in touch all these years. I share your sorrow and mourn with you. Maryann Kerrick Golding
Ryan McDonald
July 4, 2013
I love you Deborah. For if it wasn't for you I would not know my love Claire. You were always so wise and I will eternally miss you.
Seth- My heart goes out to you and your family.
Deborah and Fred
July 3, 2013
Deborah, Peter, and newborn Shane
July 3, 2013
Deborah and Fred
July 3, 2013
Ernest Torres
July 2, 2013
The voices of angels could be felt in the hearts of many, as they sang their song
of joy, welcoming their teacher back to their chorus. Thank you Deborah for being in my life, you were my angel.
Your student and friend
Ernest
Deborah Peter and Seth
July 1, 2013
Shane and Bubby
July 1, 2013
4th of July
July 1, 2013
Deborah and her Mommy
July 1, 2013
Bubby Seth and Shane
July 1, 2013
Deborah
July 1, 2013
"Ladies" Deborah Maher
Aodan Peacock
July 1, 2013
June 30, 2013
My darling Deborah, we had great fun for over seven years. We fought the good fight,and you were truly heroic. I cherish every minute that we were together. My heart is broken. I love you. Fred Cushman
Mae Sakharov
June 30, 2013
I did not know Deborah passed away and I loved her as did may. God welcomed a beautiful soul lighting the heavens.
Francine Papero
June 28, 2013
Dear Seth,
Love, inspiration, encouragement, friendship, laughter, generosity, confidence were the gifts your Mom gave me through the years. Her beauty of body and soul were rivaled only by that amazing, passionate voice. I'll always cherish walking through the door for a lesson as her melodious singing of my name filled the house: "Franciiiiiine". Laughter through tears. Deborah, you are in my heart forever. Anytime I sing will be a testament to your teaching. How lucky I have been to know you. And Cassandra thanks you for creating the Carousel Program in her honor. Seth, may your memories of your Mom sustain you.
Sincerely,
Francine (Papero)
Ali Sternberg
June 28, 2013
Deb,
It has been 13 days, 3 hours, and 8 minutes since you drew your last breath. Seth, weeping, held you ever so gently in his arms -- Beautiful Mother -- Adored Son.
In a card from one of your beloved friends Seth and I read a stanza that took our breath away:
"The presence of her absence is everywhere."
I imagine that in ancient times great temples would have been erected to honor you. Men and women would have traveled for days, gathering to be near you, basking in your overflowing unconditional love as soaring music provided the perfect accompaniment to the sage advice of a goddess/oracle.
In nearer time, almost a decade ago, you welcomed me into your life with humor, affection, inclusion, and love. You gave me what may be the hardest thing for one woman to give another -- your son. I thanked you many times over the years for raising a man who was pure love and light. You mothered a boy who grew into a man of infinite beauty, strength, goodness, tenderness, and love — a true mensch and so much more.
I, like Seth, feel lost without you. The loss is so raw and incomprehensible. I look forward to the day we all celebrate your remarkable life even as I know that day is now, today and every day, this day, and all the days to come. Thank you for the measureless goodness and beauty with which you bless our lives.
Shane Maher
June 27, 2013
Beloved Bubby
Going on all of our many adventures really made my heart sing. Sleeping over at your house was great because there was always something new happening. Our vacations were full of joy and my happiest memories. Making our vegetable garden really made it feel like summer. I love you Bubby. I miss you. You are in my prayers every night. Going to your apartment in New York was the best memory. YOU ARE ALWAYS ALIVE IN MY HEART!
John Calkins
June 27, 2013
What a wonderfully nurturing, strong and kind woman. The impact that she has had on so many people is quite amazing- and it shows. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends.
Aodan Peacock
June 27, 2013
I have trod the upward and the downward slope;
I have endured and done in days before;
I have longed for all, and bid farewell to hope;
And I have lived and loved, and closed the door.
R.L.S.
This is my song for you darling Deborah. Though our time together was brief I will try to follow your teaching for the rest of my days.
Heartfelt condolences to Seth, Shane, Fred and to all who loved our wonderful Deborah.
Aodan
June 26, 2013
Deborah stole my heart when we sang my first Scarpia to her Tosca 30 years ago for Trnton Civic Opera and the Steeles. Our paths diveged for many years but it has been a delight for me, and all our colleagues, that she has played such a beautiful role with Opera Project....Her classic beauty and excellent voice was a foundation for her rich personality and for her greatest human quality: her compassion for all, her positive words for all...I loved her and will miss her most when I sing... Don Sheasley
June 26, 2013
I will remember Deborah fondly for her passion, generosity, kindness, big heart, spirit, and of course, her beautiful voice. She had a significant influence on me in a formative time in my life. She is greatly missed. -Nicole Guberman
Frederick Lowe
June 25, 2013
A grand and most talented lady!
June 25, 2013
We will miss her beautiful voice and her generous soul. You are in my prayers.
Richard McIntyre
Amy Suznovich
June 24, 2013
Deborah was a huge inspiration to me and all of my colleagues at The Opera Project. I will miss her beautiful voice, words of wisdom and encouragement and incredible presence.
Clayton Mathews
June 24, 2013
Deborah was one of the kindest and caring women that I've ever met. She always made me smile every time I saw her. She was also a great mentor and I will always carry her in my heart no matter where I go. May God Bless Her.
Kit Riley
June 23, 2013
As they wrote in the Harry Warren, Mack Gordon song, "There will never, ever be another you."
My love to the family and to you, wherever you're singing these days.
Your devoted friend, Kit
Kimberly Gallagher
June 22, 2013
Seth,
It's so hard to put into words how much your mother meant to me...a 2nd mother when we were little, my first voice teacher, mentor, role model, and friend. She not only opened me up as a singer, but as a person. She helped teach me to believe in myself, and even the last time I saw her she was still encouraging me to live up to my full potential and always to sing. I know she inspired so many others in this same way. You are in my thoughts and she will always be in my heart.
Jenn Cleary (Forman)
June 21, 2013
Deborah was one of the most amazing people I knew. She was like a mother to me, and such a huge part of my youth. She taught me to believe in myself and have fun. I'm so saddened by this news. I can't imagine a world without Deborah, but all who knew her in their lives have been blessed.
Laura Shanahan
June 20, 2013
My heart is broken to know Deborah is no longer here. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Seth, along with your family. I am so sorry for your loss.
June 20, 2013
Seth, I loved both your mother and father. I worked with your dad for many years and lived in Titusville for a long time. Your mother was a beautiful lady, inside and out. She sang at my wedding and gave me so much advice in my younger years. You are in my thoughts and prayers today.
Linda Wilson, Lambertville, NJ
Kate Harrison
June 20, 2013
Seth, Such sad news. Your Mom was a great lady, I am so glad I had a chance to know her. You are in my prayers.
Rose Gallagher
June 19, 2013
Dear Seth,
I was so sad to hear of your mother's passing. She was an inspiration to me and a wonderful friend. I felt so priviledged to have known her and remember so vividly our times together when you and Kimberly were little. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. She has left a void in all of our lives:-(
June 19, 2013
Dear Seth,
I'm so sorry for your loss. Your mom was a beautiful person. Please know that you are in my thoughts.
Ellen Malissa, Yardley, PA
Amy Coryell
June 19, 2013
Dear Seth,
I am so sorry to hear of your mom's passing. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Amy Coryell
Michelle Bodine Marte
June 19, 2013
Deborah was an amazing woman, teacher, and singer, so filled with light and life. She will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Susan Myers
June 19, 2013
Deborah was like a mother to me. She helped me find my voice both in singing and in life. She was an amazing person and teacher. Sending strength to her family and all who loved her.
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