Photo courtesy of Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin
Ballwin, Missouri
Aug 16, 1957 – Mar 24, 2026
Deborah (Debbie) Lee Pagano passed peacefully on March 24, 2026, after a courageous battle with breast cancer.
Debbie was born on August 16, 1957, in Concord, Massachusetts, to the late Anthony and Martha (Dee) Pagano. She grew up alongside her three sisters: Ann (Stephen) Mankiewicz, her twin sister, Donna (Joe) Spinelli, and the late Jane Brown. She had many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. Her childhood instilled in her a lifelong love of Cape Cod, Boston sports, and all things “lobsta.”
Debbie attended Rose Hawthorne School and graduated from Concord-Carlisle High School in 1975. She played basketball and was a majorette in the band. The friendships she formed during those years led to lifelong memories and cherished Patriots’ Day traditions. She loved returning to Concord and looked forward to connecting with family, beloved friends and classmates.
She later moved to St. Louis, where she made Missouri her home-especially after the birth of her children, Austin and Andrea. Debbie found great joy in watching them grow, traveling together, and sharing life’s adventures. She was incredibly proud of the people they have become and deeply grateful for the love they shared. She shared her love of sports with her kids & friends and was a wicked big Patriots’ fan! While she followed the Red Sox and the Bruins, she loved attending Cardinal’s and Blues games. She rarely missed Jeopardy and most evenings were spent watching football, baseball or hockey.
She treasured time spent with friends, whether it was travelling, going to the movies or dining out and cocktails. Her friends became an extension of her family and remained by her side, along with her children through the end. Debbie will be remembered for her beautiful black hair, her infectious laugh, her wicked funny sense of humor and for being a devoted and loving mother to her children. Her presence will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Services: Visitation at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Monday, March 30, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. with procession to St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, Ellisville for 11:00 a.m. Mass. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Wildwood Pub, 17253 New College Ave., Wildwood, Monday, March 30, 2026 from 1-6 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to American Cancer Society. Friends may sign the family’s on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.
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I have had the pleasure of knowing Deb for years as she worked with me at American House- (Anthology). Deb and I shared battle stories as we both battled breast cancer and had many times just sat and talked about the struggles and sometimes even the positives of beating and battling the disease. Deb was so positive and so driven that no matter what- she was at work! I will miss her very much.
Kathleen Nardoni
March 29, 2026
I´m so sorry to hear of her passing. I knew Debbie when we worked at Xerox many years ago. She always stood out as someone who brought positivity wherever she went. She had such a warm, upbeat energy and a way of making the workplace feel brighter. She will be remembered for that kindness and spirit. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones.
Mary Page
March 29, 2026
I´m so sorry to hear of her passing. I worked with Debbie many years ago. She always stood out as someone who brought positivity wherever she went. She had such a warm, upbeat energy and a way of making the workplace feel brighter. She will be remembered for that kindness and spirit. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones.
Mary Page
March 29, 2026
I remember going to many of the girls events (Proms and homecomings) and taking pictures of the girls. Lots of fun memories with Debbie. Rest in peace now.
Kerri and Allen Luensmann
March 28, 2026
I remember Debbie (and Donna) being in my grade at Rose Hawthorne. I have often thought about them and wondered where they were now. I am sorry to hear of Debbie´s passing. It seems she lived a very good life and I am sure she will be missed by many.
Lisa Ormsby
March 28, 2026
Rest peacefully Debbie, you gave me one of my first nicknames and coming from you was quite the compliment. Love and prayers to your family
Theresa Costa
March 28, 2026
Rest in Peace Debbie. My thoughts and prayers to all of your family.
Glenn Zimmer
March 28, 2026
Diane Fenton- Papia
March 28, 2026
Diane Fenton- Papia
March 28, 2026
