Debora "Debbie" Maldonado

Debora "Debbie" Maldonado

Debora Maldonado Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 17, 2001.
Mighty "Mouse"
Her husband, Otilio, nicknamed her "Mouse," but that was because Debbie Maldonado was short, not because she was timid. She was not shy. "Miss Miriam," she would start on her older sister, "You're too fat, you need to lose weight!" And heaven protect the salesman who stood between her and a bargain: "Whaddaya nuts? Lower it, lower it!"

Feisty, warm, shopoholic, chocoholic Mrs. Maldonado, 47, an executive secretary at Marsh & McLennan, called her sister in Miami every day before lunch — "There's a sale at Strawberry's! What size are you now?" — and spent every Sunday with her mother, was a woman of constancy. Same boyfriend, later husband, since she was 14; same boss for 21 years; same summer vacation year after year to visit Miss Miriam.

Even so, she had her jolts. For 16 years, Mrs. Maldonado fought infertility with high- tech intervention and no-tech prayer. But she became pregnant the old-fashioned way, with Krystal, now 11, and then Cris, 9. This August in Miami, she went on a shopping spree. "You never know what's going to happen tomorrow," said Mrs. Maldonado. "What are you talking about?" asked her sister. Mrs. Maldonado replied: "I'm going to enjoy my life now."

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Debora Maldonado's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

September 11, 2024

Betty Stephen posted to the memorial.

September 11, 2023

Bev Begnal posted to the memorial.

September 4, 2023

Betty Stephen posted to the memorial.

Betty Stephen

September 11, 2024

Still missing you my friend. Still hard to believe.

Bev Begnal

September 11, 2023

I've been attending a memorial service every year for 20 years and then I moved and couldn't find one. But, each year at 9/11 I look at pictures I have of those lost at Marsh (which Corp. I worked for for 32-1/2 years) and Debora is one that I miss so much. I say prayers for all that I've known while at Marsh and all that were lost on that day. Debora I miss you and today is the first time I saw this Memories and Condolences page.........might be late posting this but my love/feelings for your loss is still just as significant! Sending love your way!!!! Bev

Betty Stephen

September 4, 2023

Deb, I miss you so much. I miss our talks. I wish I could talk to you right now.

Josie

September 2, 2023

Darling dear Debbie, the sweetest soul. I think of you and miss you so very much. Xxx Today I just felt such a flood of emotion. Your big kind heart.

Patricia Maldonado

September 11, 2022

Rest well, Mighty Mouse!

Betty Stephen

September 17, 2021

Still missing you my precious friend. May you continue to rest in peace. Twenty years later and it still does not seem real. The footage shared from that day is what let me know indeed it was real. ❤

Quenton Adams

September 16, 2021

Thinking about Debbie and 9/11 today. 20 years ago, this tragedy happens. She was one of the almost 3,000 other people that sadly died that day. It is sick to my stomach what they did to America, and what is going on in the world now. May everyone rest in peace.

Patricia Maldonado

September 11, 2020

Thinking about Debbie today. It was 19 years ago today that I was sitting with my newborn and mourning with our nation. I pray that Debbie has rested in peace and is delighting in the arms of our Lord. God bless her and her family.

Betty Stephen

September 12, 2016

Debbie, to have one more conversation with you would be awesome. I miss you even more today! You would be so proud of your children. Thinking about you my dear friend.

Maria C. Gabbe

September 11, 2016

You are always remembered amiga for your beautiful smile. RIP

Patricia Maldonado

September 26, 2015

To Debbie's family,
I didn't want this month to go by without sending you my prayers for the 14th anniversary of that fateful day.
I had a chance to visit the memorial in August when my family and I took a small weekend trip to NYC. As we visited the Freedom Tower, I was somber. I am grateful to have this connection and continue to pray for Debbie every anniversary. May God continue to bless you!

Betty Stephen

September 12, 2015

Miss you my friend even more today! Miss having lunch with you and sharing funny stories about our families.

brian maldonado

December 29, 2014

debbie was one of the people that i first saw at the memorial, i will always remember her, rest in peace from san antonio, texas brian

debby polozola

December 16, 2014

I visited the 911 memorial today while visiting new York for the first time. Sending my condolences. Beautiful memorial.

S J. Friscia III

July 29, 2014

In Memory
With Honor & Respect.

Patricia Maldonado

September 11, 2013

I pray that peace is reigning in your families on this anniversary. Thinking of Debbie today, and especially praying for her 2 - now grown- children. Patricia Maldonado, Sugar Land, Texas (mom of 2 girls)

May 16, 2012

Happy Birthday!!!

Katrina Poulos

September 11, 2011

On the first or second anniversary of September 11th, I was living in Miami and working for a local radio station. I had the honor of meeting Debora's sister Miriam when she came down to Bayside for our tribute. Miriam gave me a photo of Debora (the one on the profile) and asked me to always remember her. Five years ago I moved to New York and anytime I am in the city near Ground Zero or see/hear anything to do with September 11th, I saw a pray for Debora. I still have her photo and I will never forget her (even though I never had the pleasure of meeting her).

Patricia Maldonado

September 11, 2011

To Miriam, Krystal, Chris, Debbie's husband, and the rest of the Family:
10 years ago, although I had no direct relationship to anyone who perished in the WTC, I felt compelled to connect more personally in condolence on that fateful day. As I looked through the list of tributes, I came across Debbie's and found myself immediately connected, because we share the same last name. I loved reading her story. From that day forward, each time we remembered 9-11, I thought of her and, as today, I pray for your family's peace and continued strength to continue each of your lives in testament to what a great wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend she was.
May God continue to bless you with that perserverance and know that Debbie is right up there ensuring that He does!
Bendiciones...

Joanne Seay

September 13, 2010

Thinking of you and your family again this September. I often think of the "old" days at American and always memories of you, me, and Annie. God Bless You and your family - your friend forever

Nat

August 17, 2010

Love you always Debbie

Natalie

August 17, 2010

I think about you often, I miss seeing you on sundays... your beautiful smile, cute laugh!

You are gone but not forgotten & missed more than any words could describe <3

Patricia Maldonado

November 3, 2009

To Family and Friends of Debora:
In the aftermath of 9/11, many of us, although not directly affected by the tragedy, felt a great loss and deep sadness. I wanted to feel connected and looked for common ground. I looked for "Maldonado's" on the memorial sites and learned about your Debora. I still pray for her from time to time, as I did yesterday on All Souls Day. I wish you all peace.

September 27, 2009

Woke up this morning and thought of you. Remembering the good old days....

You are missed....

:(

Betty Stephen

September 15, 2009

Miss you my dear friend. Always thinking about you.

Charlene Boulden

September 13, 2009

Deb, Time does NOT heal all wounds. You are so missed and it still hurts. Krystal & JR went down to ground zero Friday and Chris is starting to look at colleges. Can you believe it? COLLEGE! They are truly YOU! Beautiful inside and out. You are always on my mind.

Doug Abraham

May 16, 2009

Happy Birthday!!!

Betty Stephen

September 12, 2008

Friend, I have no words to say. You are incredibly missed - seems like only yesterday.

Joanne Seay

September 11, 2008

Debbie, I am thinking of you today on this 7th anniversary of the most horrible day in US history...... I miss you, Debbie, even though we were out of touch for years. My heart breaks whenever I see your picture. May God Bless you and your family today and always.

Doug Abraham

May 16, 2008

Happy Birthday!!!

Betty Stephen

January 17, 2008

Thinking of you today more than ever.

Betty Stephen

September 12, 2007

Still missing you my beautiful friend.

Maria Gabbe

September 11, 2007

It is wonderful to see you smile. This is how I often remember you. Please pray for us all. Missing you....

Maria Gabbe

May 28, 2007

Happy Belated Birthday. As always seeing a picture of you brings a smile to my face. You are often in my thoughts.

[email protected]

May 16, 2007

Happy Birthday!!!

Joanne Seay

April 20, 2007

I worked with Debbie at the American Brands building back in the 80's. We actually worked in the same department and she was one of my best friends. We lost touch after the company relocated - I moved to VA and she stayed in NY. I've got pictures of her in my photo album dressing up my desk when I was getting married and also for my first baby. It was Debbie who did the decorating. She was one of the kindest, sweetest, friendliest people I've ever known and I was heartbroken when I found out she was gone. I only found out within the last year and a half. GOD BLESS DEBBIE, HER BELOVED OTELIO and her precious children. I was very happy to hear she finally was blessed with children, she wanted them so.

Betty Stephen

February 9, 2007

I miss you so my friend.

P Tabbernor

December 19, 2006

In memory....

Kristine

November 14, 2006

As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.

Betty Stephen

October 19, 2006

Debbie,

Out of your death I have come to recognize just how precious and short life really is. I finally settled down and wrote that first book after all these years. It will be published in 6-8 weeks. It's been a long time in the making but it has finally happened.
I miss you.

Maria C. Gabbe

September 11, 2006

Debbie:



You are often thought of. Please continue to watch over your family and to all those who love and miss you.....

Betty Stephen

June 22, 2006

Debbie,

I miss you so much! I'm happy to know that your children are doing very well. Thanks for the updates from Charlene who has contacted me and informed me of their progress.

"Mousey" you were a friend, a precious angel. I miss your phone calls, but at the same time I know you are smiling in Heaven.

Betty Stephen

August 12, 2005

Thinking of the Maldonado family even more on this day. I pray that all is going well with Debbie's husband and the kids. May they know that my prayers are with them always.

Maria C. Gabbe

October 3, 2004

Remembering you always Debbie.

Maria C Gabbe

May 17, 2004

My Dearest Debbie:



You are always thought of. Your birthday was yesterday, and I wanted to send you a birthday wish. I am sure you had a party celebration up with the angels.



Please pray for us.........

Corina Marquez

March 22, 2004

I didn't know Mrs.Maldonado but I was online remembering what had happenend so long ago, though it feels like yestorday. I felt compaled to write a few lines to tell you that I sorry for the loss of such a wonderful person. And to everyone who has suffered a loss of a loved one. Including all firefighters, workers, police, and last but not least the military who are still fighting a war for us. AMERICA WILL NEVER FORGET!! We will all be united one day in the beautiful gardens of heaven. God Bless Everyone, my prayers are with all.



Sincerly

Betty Stephen

November 26, 2003

Debbie is sadly missed and never to be forgotten. Time does not heal all wounds. I continue to keep your family in my prayers that they may find comfort in knowing that you were an angel sent here to grace us all with your presence.

Charlene Policard

September 21, 2003

Today you were heavy on my mind and I felt a need to write to you even though often I feel you are nearby and know my every thought. I make it a point to speak with your children, Krystal & Chris as much as I possibly can. They are growing fast and truly beautiful and every chance I’m blessed with hearing their voices or see their faces I see more and more of you. This makes me sad yet happy because they’re a good reminder of how good a friend you were. And I can honestly say it appears that their father is doing a fabulous job with raising them alone. He is tireless in this job, 24/7; people are amazed and really proud. You are so truly missed. I am forever your friend.

Lori Rogers

September 11, 2003

September 11, 2003



I think and pray for you and your family every day. Debbie and I worked together for 10 years at Marsh & McLennan, and she was my shopping companion and advisor with the sales. She helped me be strong through my infertility years and truly miss her.

Maria C Gabbe

September 11, 2003

Debbie:



You are our angel watching over us. You are always in my thoughts.

Lena Badolato

March 10, 2003

Debbie, my prayers are with you and your children. I know it has been years since we have seen one another, but, i will never forget the good person you where. I know you would remember me even though i was in my early 20's when we last saw one another, but this is your step niece Lena, Maryann's daughter. Always remembering you lena

Betty Stephen

November 5, 2002

Debbie and I worked at American Brands together. We lost touch when the company relocated, but found each other working in the same midtown area a number of years ago. We would have lunch together at least three times a week. I miss Debbie so much. She was a special friend, a precious jewel. She and I both had problems conceiving children. Finally, when she had her daughter, I had my daughter three weeks later. She had a son and then I had a son six years later. We always joked about this. If it is any comfort to them, she loved you her family so much (especially her children). The uncle, who I believe now lives in Panama, she told me so much about you. She adored you and Miss Miriam she cared so much about you. Debbie was very special. I know she is an "angel" in heaven. I loved her and miss her so much. She would call me at least two to three times a week after Marsh moved to the WTC just to see how I was doing. That meant alot to me. Miss Miriam if you can, please e-mail me [email protected].

Julia Wilson

September 17, 2002

My prayers go out to Debbie and her family. I never met Debbie but feel like I know her from hearing her brother talk about how much of a beautiful person she is. May God continue to bless her family. I know she will be missed.

Maria C Gabbe

September 16, 2002

I worked with Debbie when she worked at the midtown office. We had so many good times on the 42nd Floor. Whether it was going shopping on our lunch hour or eating together in one of the offices.....



Debbie there is not a day that goes by that I do not think of you.



I miss you...

Ed (Eddie) Pretto

September 11, 2002

On today’s date one year ago we lost our sense of security, in a place we felt secure, like being in your mothers’ arms, the arms that Debbie’s children will never feel again. Will they ever be able to feel secure again? I have not seen Debbie for many years however I still remember her well, we grew up together in Brooklyn she was a good and caring friend I considered her my cousin. I will miss her and have her in my prayers.



This poem is for Debbie’s children .



M-O-T-H-E-R

"M" is for the million things she gave me,

"O" means only that she's growing old,

"T" is for the tears she shed to save me,

"H" is for her heart of purest gold;

"E" is for her eyes, with love-light shining,

"R" means right, and right she'll always be,

Put them all together, they spell "MOTHER,"

A word that means the world to me



Debbie you will not be forgotten!!

Magen & Leslie Cintron

September 8, 2002

Me and my sister never really met debbie but she was our step aunt.
We just want to say that we pray for her & really wish we got a chance to know her. But we know she must have been a beautiful & smart person. We hope she is in peace by gods side & though we never met on earth one day we will see her in heaven. May god bless her & may she live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

August 27, 2002

I LOST MY SISTER DEBBIE AT THE NORTH TOWER OF THE WORLD TRADE CENTER ON 9/11. THERE ISN'T A DAY THAT GOES BY THAT I DO NOT SHED A TEAR FOR MY SISTER. THE PAIN IS STILL SO HARD TO BEAR AND WILL ALWAYS BE THAT WAY. MY NIECE AND MY NEPHEW LOST THERE MOM (DEBBIE) AND I CAN'T IN A MILLION YEARS IMAGINE THE PAIN AND LOST THAT THE HAVE BEEN FEELING. I ASK MYSELF WHY DID THIS HAVE TO HAPPEN TO MY SISTER AND ALL THOSE INNOCENT PEOPLE, AND THERE JUST ISN'T THE RIGHT ANSWER. GOD HELP US TO GO THROUH THIS PAIN AND MAY PEACE BE WITH THOSE WE LOST. I LOVE YOU DEBORA. NEVER TO BE FORGOTTEN. GOD BLESS US ALL.

miriam carrasquillo

August 16, 2002

To my sister Debora: I can not describe the pain I feel in my heat for your loss. I miss you very much. Your warm loving heart, your voice, your smile, your attitude facings and remarks and all that you represented are surely missed by me and all that Love you very much. I ask myself every day whey did this horrible traggedy happen to all of us, and selfishly to me and my family and all I can say Its in Gods hands". Debora please always watch over Krystal and Chris always. I wish I can take away there pain. May you be at peace and know I LOVE YOU ALWAYS. MISS MIRIAM - YOUR SISTER

Ruben Maldonado

August 12, 2002

GOD bless your family.

Angie Campbell

May 6, 2002

May God Bless you and watch over the family and friends that you left behind on 9/11/01. Rest in his loving peace forever more.

Nyla Stark

April 16, 2002

My cousin, Jose, is Debbie's stepfather. Debbie was like a sister to me and certainly a very precious and close friend! I will always have wonderful and warm memories of her and want her to know that we are making sure that her mother, Elvia, gets our support and love during this time. WE LOVE YOU DEBBIE!!

Peter Viscardi

March 11, 2002

My deepest sympathies to Debbie's family. I knew Debbie when she worked at American Brands. She was my secretary before the company relocated to Old Greenwich,CT and worked with me in the corporate insurance department. When I visited Marsh over the years, I would always stop by to say hello. She was a wonderful person and very devoted to her family. She is missed by all who knew her.

Natalie Torrelli

March 6, 2002

I knew Debra for a while. I'm her mothers neighbor and when I was younger I would play Barbies with Krsytal and Cars with Chris ! I miss her so much and it breaks my heart to know we lost a Angel. She was one of the most Beatiful woman I ever met and I will always keep a place in my Heart for her!

February 27, 2002

DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON DEBORA (DEBBIE) MALDONALDO AND MAY HER SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..AMEN

Donald (Donny) Inniss

February 6, 2002

I am your cousin on your father side. I have not seen you since I left Brooklyn, NY. in the early seventies. Our mutual cousins Natalia and Yolanda informed me that you were one of the victims of the World Trade Center tragedy. I felt very sad and prayed that you have gone home to be with our almighty father, God. I also prayed that God give your mother, husband two children, brother and sister the strenght to survive this devastating loss to the family. May God protect and bless them and may they be consoled by the loving memories that they have of you. Goodbye dear cousin.

Renier Peniche

January 1, 2002

I never met you Debbie, but I am a friend of you sister Miriam. I was on the phone with her when the second plane hit. May the good Lord bless you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and you family. RENIER E. PENICHE MIAMI FLORIDA

Teresa Jahn

December 23, 2001

We are very sorry for your loss of Debbie. Our hearts cry with you.

America Cries

We see your sorrow-

and our hearts cry....

We can not erase your pain

but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-

-the American people-

are beside you.

We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,

the strength that gives you courage,

and the words to lighten your spirits.

And when we are left speechless

may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts

to ease your sorrow.

May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-

-the American people-

face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn

Dixon, IL

Derek Wilkins

October 30, 2001

OUR THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU ALWAYS!

Showing 1 - 68 of 68 results

Make a Donation
in Debora Maldonado's name

How to support Debora 's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Debora Maldonado's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Sign Debora Maldonado's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

September 11, 2024

Betty Stephen posted to the memorial.

September 11, 2023

Bev Begnal posted to the memorial.

September 4, 2023

Betty Stephen posted to the memorial.