Deborah Anne "Debbie" Howley

Deborah Anne Howley, 72, of Middletown, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at Yale New Haven Hospital. She was born in Troy, NY, the daughter of the late Donald Howley and Mary Ann (Rafala) Cartelli. Deborah spent nearly 30 years caring for others as a Registered Nurse at Connecticut Valley Hospital, where she was known for her dedication, compassion, and strength. In 2007 Debbie was awarded "Nurse of the Year " with the underlying theme of "Nursing: A profession and compassion", the perfect way to describe Deborah. Prior to CVH Debbie worked at the family business Rafala's Restaurant. A lifelong resident of Middletown, Debbie graduated from Mercy High School and later attended Marymount College in Boca Raton, Florida. In 1993, she furthered her calling to help others by earning her nursing degree from Capital Community College. Debbie was a woman of warmth, kindness, and quiet strength. She is survived by her daughter and best friend, Rebecca Augeri, and her husband Chris of Middletown; her sister, Donna Rondinone of Colchester; her brothers, Michael Howley and his wife Loretta of Rhode Island, Timothy Howley of Beverly Hills, Florida, and Matthew Howley of New York, NY. She was a proud grandmother to Ciarah Augeri and her partner Nicholas LaMonte, and a joyful great-grandmother to Giovanni LaMonte. She also leaves behind several loving nieces and nephews. For over 30 years, Debbie found deep community and friendship through Fellowship Church. Her church family was an important part of her life, offering support, connection, and joy. She also formed lasting bonds with coworkers "on the hill" - friendships that felt more like extended family and continued long after her retirement. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 10th, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver Street, Middletown. A funeral service celebrating Debbie's life will be held on Friday, July 11th, at 10:30 a.m. at Fellowship Church, 1002 Saybrook Road, Middletown. Burial will follow at St. Sebastian Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation or Fellowship Church, in honor of Debbie's generous and caring spirit. To share memories or express condolences online, please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.