Deborah Ann Sciortino

Deborah (Debbie) Zabbara Sciortino passed away peacefully after a long illness surrounded by her family on October 5, 2025. Mrs. Sciortino was born April 22, 1958, in Waterbury, CT, daughter of the late John and Anna (Lena) Zabbara and moved to North Carolina 31 years ago.

She was a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School, Waterbury, CT, and NC A&T University, Greensboro, NC. She taught in the Guilford County School System for over 20 years, retiring in 2016.

Mrs. Sciortino cultivated a life rich with love, cherishing every moment spent with her family, and possessed a lifelong passion for reading. She found peace and joy with sand between her toes and the sound of the ocean, a place she always loved. She blessed all who knew her with a remarkable memory and an ability to recall the best moments of their shared lives. Above all else, she was known for her genuinely sweet nature and kind, gentle spirit.

She is survived by one son, Chris (Annie) Sciortino of Hampstead, NC, one daughter, Becky (Grayden) Barham of Mint Hill, NC, two grandchildren, Taryn and Breckin Barham; three brothers, John (Alice) Zabbara of Waterbury, CT, Robert (Sharon) Zabbara, and Manny (Susan) Zabbara both of Wolcott, CT; three sisters, Judi Taylor of Prospect, CT, Bonnie Boutote of Watertown, CT, and Annie (Crystal) Zabbara of Chattanooga, TN; former husband Robert Sciortino of Wilmington, NC and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her niece, Lisa Boutote.

A memorial service will be held Sunday October 12, 3:30pm at The Chapel at Morning Star.

12900 Idlewild Road, Matthews, NC 28105

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society.