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Deborah Wilkey Obituary
Loving mother and grandmother
LOWELL -- Deborah Ann (Fleming) Wilkey, 57, a lifelong Lowell resident, died Thursday, May 2, 2013, at Lahey Clinic, after a brief illness. She was surrounded by her loving family.
A daughter of the late Dorothea A. (O'Brien) Fleming, she was born July 25, 1955, in Lowell. She graduated from Lowell High School, Class of 1973, and attended Fitchburg State College. She made her home in the Highlands Section of the City, and was a communicant of St. Margaret Church.
For over 30 years, she worked in the banking industry, most recently as a commercial lending assistant at Enterprise Bank in Westford.
Debbie was an unbelievably loving mother who always put her children first. She was so proud of her three kids. Watching Dave and John, her two sons, become fathers to two gorgeous daughters was the greatest moment in her life; she adored spending time with her granddaughters. She and her daughter, Sarah, were best friends and spent time shopping, baking, and always laughing. Debbie brought a smile to everyone she encountered. She had an uncanny ability to connect with people and forge lifelong friendships. A selfless woman, she spent her entire life spreading joy and laughter to others. She also loved being at her beach house and hosting the infamous "Wilkey Family" parties. Debbie never let anything discourage her or slow her down. She embodied what it meant to truly live and cherish life. She leaves us with a message to always find a reason to dance, to surround ourselves with people who make us happy, and above all, to persevere. She was truly a beautiful soul who will be missed by many.
She is survived by her children, John F. Wilkey and his wife, Allison, of Dracut, David C. Wilkey and his wife, Kelly, of Lowell, and Sarah E. Wilkey of Lowell; their father, Jack F. Wilkey, her husband of 36 years; her beloved granddaughters, Elaina Wilkey of Lowell and Ava Wilkey of Dracut; her brother, Kevin S. Fleming and his wife, Gaetane, of Dracut; her sister, Margaret "Meg" Brice and her husband, Joseph, of Chelmsford; her dear friend, Debbie Muldoon of Tewksbury; and loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many close friends.
WILKEY -- YOU ARE INVITED TO HER CALLING HOURS FROM 3 UNTIL 8 P.M. ON SUNDAY, MAY 5. ON MONDAY, HER FUNERAL WILL BEGIN AT 8:30 A.M. AT THE MCDONOUGH FUNERAL HOME, 14 HIGHLAND STREET, LOWELL 978-458-6816. HER FUNERAL MASS WILL BE OFFERED AT ST. MARGARET CHURCH, 374 STEVENS ST, LOWELL AT 9:30 A.M.. BURIAL IN ST. PATRICK CEMETERY. E-CONDOLENCE SITE WWW.MCDONOUGHFUNERALHOME.COM
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Memories and Condolences
for Deborah Wilkey
Joe McDonald
May 1, 2020
As time moves on for us all and there is no looking into the future, I find it tough to know as Debbie's passing has been 7 years. Debbie gave me a rose to take care of many years ago. I will never let the rose go unattended for a day without thinking of Debbie. Time does not heal anything, it just teaches us to live with the pain. Debbie was a wonderful being. To all she had known and brought joy, laughter along with true trust and real friendship to all. Missed and never forgotten ever. Debbie would tell us to add a little whipped cream to that hot chocolate.
Thanks again for being a true friend while here on this earth of ours.
God Bless you.
With love.
"The Captain"
Joe The Captain
May 1, 2019
The light will always shine in our lives and hearts as Debbie would like to see in all who cared and loved Debbie.
I will not forget Debbie as a rose was passed to me from Debbie for me to take care of and never forget of Debbie and the kindness she brought to all. I still pray each night for Debbie's soul to be with family in the Kingdom of the Lord. Amen
Joe
October 16, 2013
As we all make our journey through this life and meet such beautiful beings as Debbie, some will cry of Debbie's passing as I have, and others will remember the kindness, joy and laughter as so many known Debbie for bringing with her to all as I have. I pray that Debbie's passing will bring to light for all, life is a precious gift given to us and can be taken from us very quickly and without notice.
The words “I love you” should be said to all the ones you do love along with a meaningful hug , as no one has a promise of tomorrow. You are loved by all Debbie and will be missed very dearly. May you be with our Lord Jesus in the Holy Kingdom with all who have passed before you. I pray for your soul every night . To all reading this I know Debbie would like for all of us take time in your life and add a bit of whipped cream to that hot chocolate drink and savor everyday and all that life is.
“The Captain”
Lisa Shrestha
May 20, 2013
I had the pleasure of meeting Debbie and taking care of her as her aide for a brief period of time. She was such a wonderful human being and beautiful soul. She always had a smile on her face even though I would wake her up after her being woken up often through out the night. All of the nurses and NA s adored Debbie, she could bring smile to anybody's face. You were always so pleasant to be around. You will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to Wilkey family. (Sarah I am so sorry for your loss.)
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Jeanne Stewart
May 9, 2013
Prayers for the family from Doug, Jeanne and Veronica
Rich O'Neil
May 8, 2013
I was trying to figure out exactly why Deb's death hit me so hard. After all,I had not been in regular contact over the last few years and she was not a family member,but she was really an innocent,non judgemental person,there was no hidden agenda with Deb. What you saw was what you got. She always had that smile no matter what was going on in her life. She was always inviting me to the beach house last time I saw her and I thought there would always be time to do that and there wasn't. Her effect on me was more profound than I realized,because when she passed I was griefstricken as though it was a family member. She is one of those people who touches your soul more deeply than you realize until she is gone. Rest with the angels Deb-you deserve it. And my love to her kids and family. That light of Deb's shines in their faces too. God Bless.
May 6, 2013
I have known Debbie for a long time, since junior high. She was a wonderful person and always easy to be around. We are so saddened by her passing and our prayers are with her family.
Bill and Chris Florence
Laurice Achin
May 6, 2013
Sarah, Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your Mom.
Sincerely, Laurice
Cheryl Conlin
May 6, 2013
To Deb's family: I've had the honor and pleasure of working with Deb for the past 12 years. It was always a delight to talk to her, and she will be missed. My deepest sympathies.
May 6, 2013
What a tremendous loss. Although I knew Debbie in High School our paths would cross at times years later. She was truly a beautiful soul whom I enjoyed speaking with each time we would meet. Know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers
Rich and Leanne (Desilets) Blanchette
Katie/Christopher Gill
May 6, 2013
Dear Wilkey/Brice Family,
You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Gail McAnistan-Byrne
May 6, 2013
It's hard to find the words to express the sadness I am feeling for your loss. Talk about a woman that has given so much, not just to her 3 beautiful children, Jack, her friends, neighbors, community and coworkers, but to our world. Deb made this world a better place, and for that I thank her. She was always an inspiration with her positive attitude and words of wisdom for anyone in need. I will never forget this beautiful woman. R.I.P Deb.
Amy Bisson
May 5, 2013
Dear Wilkey Family,
How sad to hear of your loss. I remember your mother as an involved and caring parent at St. Margaret's School, someone who would drop everything to help out. My deepest sympathy to all of you.
Joanne Souza
May 5, 2013
To Deb's beautiful children and family, I am so sad that Deb has passed. She was such a beautiful person. Deb always managed to smile even as she passed through the tough times in her life. Deb always relished her family. Our paths had crossed a few times and with always the intention of getting together for coffee. I am so sad that we didn't make it for that coffee because she was so special. Just recently, I ran into her at Enterprise in Westford and we chatted so much I was afraid she would get in trouble. Let me say this, Deb, you were the best mother and remembered you as the best daughter and always a good wife and great neighbor. Our kids went through school together and they feel the same pain as I do. Your shorten life was well lived and I will always remember to make sure I take the time to have that "coffee" with my friends.
With sincere deepest sympathy.
Joanne Souza
Crystalynn Smith (Byrne)
May 4, 2013
I don't think that there is anyone in this world that can compare to Mrs Wilkey. Growing up next door to the Wilkey's was truly the best thing that could have happened to me, their house quickly became a second home and she a second mom. Every moment spent with her was so much fun- She encouraged our silly behaviors, listened to us talk about prom since the 3rd grade, drove us places just so we could act like fools, funded our impulse purchases of fruit because of its silly names, gave us full radio control, listened to our teenaged nonsense but looking back on these times making her laugh was the best part, I loved to hear her laugh. I'm so lucky to have spent so much time and have so many great memories with her and her 3 amazing children. John, Dave and my dearest friend Sarah, your mother was magical, thank you for sharing her with all your friends.
Ed and Rita Jarvis
May 4, 2013
Any time we walked into Enterprise Bank in Westford, Debbie was the first person we saw and she always had a smile on her face. She will be truly missed.
The Frye Family
May 4, 2013
To the entire Wilkey Family, our sincerest sympathies go out to your family. Sarah - as we all experienced St. Margaret School together, your mom was always there with her big smile and pleasnat conversation. She was always a pleasure to be around and you canbe very proud - just as she was of you! Meg and family - please know that we are thinking of you and wishing there was something we could do to make things different. We don't have to tell you how wonderful Debbie was - you already know. Hold fast to the happy memories and let her smile continue to brighten your days! If there is anything we can do, please let us know!
Nancy Downes
May 4, 2013
Meg and family, Brian and I are so deeply sorry for the loss of your beautful sister and his cousin, Deb. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. Deb was lovely - kind, funny and one of the most caring and loving people I had the pleasure to know and work with. She will be missed by so many....
Karin Theodoros
May 4, 2013
To Jack and Family,
I am very sorry for your very great loss. I am saddened to her this news. I have not seen Deb for 20 years, but I knew her well throughout school and thought of her often, those memories always bringing a smile to me. Deb was very special person. She had a great attitude, a great personality and a lot of love in her. I am sorry also to sense that the last few weeks were very hard on on all of you. She was too young. Please accept my sincerest sympathies for your deep pain. This is a great loss. May her memory last forever. Sincerely, Karin Theodoros
Anne O'Brien
May 4, 2013
Debbie was always kind, compassionate and more concerned about others than herself. She truly was a special person who left us too soon.
Anne O'Brien
Anne O'Brien
May 4, 2013
Debbie was always kind, compassionate and more concerned about others than herself. She truly was a special person who left us too soon.
Anne O'Brien
Melissa Rodrigues
May 4, 2013
My heart aches for your family. I know you will be sorely missed by many. Thinking of your family during this sad time. May your love and their memories bring them comfort.
May 4, 2013
Meg and Family , May you all find comfort in knowing that Deb and your Mom and Grandmother are together again. She will always be remembered . My sincere sympathy to the whole family . Janet "Cookie" Flood Lowell , MA
Ann Marie Denomme
May 4, 2013
My heart aches for the beautiful soul that was taken from us too soon. You always made me laugh, no matter what the occasion. I will keep you in my heart...you stay there forever. Rest easy my sweet cousin...
Mike Downes
May 4, 2013
Jack and family, Kevin and Meg, my sincere condolences. May your memories help aid you through this most difficult time.
Lucille Fortier
May 4, 2013
Debbie and I worked together at Central Savings and Butler Bank. She was a beautiful and loving person who always had a smile for everyone. May you be at peace with the angels in heaven.
Gail Rice
May 4, 2013
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Maureen Moynihan
May 4, 2013
Meg,My heart goes out to you. My thoughts & prayers are with you, your family & your sister's family.
Lorna and Brian Hamel
May 4, 2013
Debbie loved unconditionally. She was the kind of friend that "walked in when the rest of the world walked out." She did that for me many times!!!
May 4, 2013
I love you Mom. Please continue to guide me. I hope someday to be as good as you
Love your "little princess"
Sarah
Anne Jeltema
May 4, 2013
Debbie had a heart of gold. She was one of the reasons I loved going to the Westford Office. She touched everyone's life and made each day brighter. She'll always remain in our hearts.
Rich O'Neil
May 4, 2013
A sweet,wonderful woman.
Michael Hayden
May 4, 2013
Cousin Deb
You and that wonderful smile will never be forgotten, it has not changed since you were a beautiful little girl. I will always remember you smiling and being positive no matter what was going on.
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