Deborah Ann Pecci

Deborah Ann Pecci, age 68, a devoted educator, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, surrounded by her loving husband of 37 years and daughters. She courageously faced a six-month battle with cancer. She was a longtime resident of Dumont, born and raised in Clifton, NJ. Deborah was the beloved wife of James Pecci, and devoted mother of Kristen Pecci and Rachel Pecci. She was the dear sister of Kevin Wilkening and his wife Wendy. Deborah was predeceased by her father William Wilkening and is survived by her mother, Veronica. She is also the loving sister- in-law of Gail Clark, Carol and Gene Lehman, Terryanne and Phil Marsh, Raymond and Lucille Pecci and many nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews. After meeting her husband in 1983, Deborah and James started a beautiful life together, built on love, laughter, and mutual support. They raised their family with strong values, endless love, and a deep commitment to one another. Their home was always filled with warmth welcome and shared memories. Her love for her family was without bounds, supporting her daughters in every endeavor they chose. She was also an active parishioner at St. Therese Parish in Cresskill. Deborah had a passion for travel (especially the Caribbean), the beach (especially Stone Harbor NJ), shopping (especially when she found a good deal), and had a true talent for baking. Deborah was famous for her Christmas cookies, baking over 20 varieties each holiday season for family and friends. Always testing out new recipes each year. Deborah cherished her 41-year career as a Special Education Teacher, holding off on retirement until only recently. She worked with Bergen County Special Services and was assigned to various schools throughout the district. However, once a school had the opportunity to work with her, they requested her return year after year. Her warm, kind personality made an impression on all the lives she touched, including her students, co- workers, friends, family, and even people she met for the first time. Deborah made friends wherever she went. Family and friends are invited to visit on Monday, September 8, 2025 from 4-8PM at the Barrett Leber Funeral Home, 148 Dean Dr., Tenafly. A Mass of Christian Burial Will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at 10AM at St. Therese RC Church, Cresskill. Interment to follow at Brookside Cemetery. Donations in Deborah's name to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, P.O. Box 5028, Hagerstown, MD 21741 would be greatly appreciated. Visit Deborah's memorial tribute page at www.barrettleber.com