Deborah A. Nepa, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away on January 28, 2026.
She was born on January 29, 1958, to the late Ann M. (Zappaterrini) and Alfonso J. Crisconi. Throughout her life, Debbie radiated warmth and kindness, touching the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Debbie was a proud graduate of Padua Academy, class of 1976, and furthered her education at Delaware Technical Community College, where she earned an Associate's Degree in Nursing. She served as a registered nurse at St. Francis Hospital, dedicating her career to caring for others. However, Debbie's most cherished role was that of a devoted wife and mother, striving to create a loving and nurturing environment for her family.
A passionate cook and baker, Debbie had a gift for bringing people together. Her home was a welcoming haven where friends and family gathered for festive occasions, holiday celebrations, and birthday parties. She thrived in the joy of entertaining, opening her heart and her home to all.
Debbie had a special place in her heart for Rehoboth Beach, where she enjoyed spending time at her beach house, often found people watching from her porch with a smile. In addition to her love for the beach, she cherished gardening, decorating, watching tennis, and her unwavering support for the Philadelphia Phillies.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 46 years, Ernest M. Nepa; her two devoted children, Jenna N. Nepa and Ernest M. Nepa, Jr.; her cherished sisters, Francine (Ted) Filliben and Paula (Michael) Capriglione; her niece, Jayne (Steve) Hughes; and her two great-nieces, Caydence and Vayda.
Debbie’s spirit will live on in the lives she touched, a true caregiver and friend to all. Her legacy of love and generosity will never be forgotten.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Service for Debbie at Krienen-Griffith Funeral Home, 1400 Kirkwood Hwy., Wilm., DE 19805, on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 12:00 pm. Friends may call at the funeral home from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. Interment will take place at Cathedral Cemetery on Monday, February 9 at 10:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Faithful Friends, 165 Airport Rd., New Castle, DE 19720
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1400 Kirkwood Highway Elsmere, Wilmington, DE 19805

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