Debra "Cullen" DiRico
Debra "Cullen" DiRico
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Debra DiRico Obituary
Debra was the daughter of her late Parents Kathryn Cullen (McGonigle) and Thomas Cullen. She was born in Philadelphia and attended West Catholic and BOK where she learned to be a hair stylist.
Beloved wife of Raymond DiRico; Loving Mother to Kathy (Rick) Giaconia and Gina (Dave) Santini; Cherished Granny to Richie, Tyler, Katie, Victoria, Rose, Adriana, Jason, Jacob, David (McKenna); David and Julianna. She is also survived by her siblings, Thomas (Barbara) Cullen, John Cullen (Claire) and Kathy (John) Eby. She is predeceased by her parents, brothers William (Kathleen) and James Cullen, and her sister Marie Robinson. She is also survived by many nephews, nieces, cousins and more.
Relatives and friends are invited to her Visitation Saturday, February 14, 2026 9:30am St. Kevin Church, 200 W. Sproul Rd. Springfield, PA 19064 and to her Funeral Mass 12:00pm in the Church. Burial SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery.
Contributions can be made to American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown MD 21741.
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Essence
February 22, 2026
Essence Mcgonigle
February 22, 2026
Essence McGonigle
February 22, 2026
I can´t say enough about how wonderful Deb was. She never passed up the chance to help someone. She helped me through the most difficult part of my life and helped me to help someone else. I loved her so much and I hope she knows how blessed I felt having her in my life. I will miss her every day.
Jean Hopper
February 21, 2026
I remember the day that your mom asked me if my little girl could play with her little girl, & they have been best friends since 1976. Thank you Debbie
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Jean Burrell
February 20, 2026
I will miss D so much. She did my hair for my wedding in December, 1984. I folllowed her around until she decided to step back. She loved her girls and grandchildren so much! She radiated when talking about them, her husband or any family member. She sure loved going down the shore. I am better for having j own her. With deep sympathy, Jean Burrell. Sister of Anne McCool
Amy DiGregorio
February 18, 2026
I had the pleasure of working with Dee. Her energy was contagious. She was so funny and I will cherish all the advice she has given me throughout the years. I feel so lucky I got to know her and she will be so missed.
Eve Dougherty
February 18, 2026
So sad to hear of a wonderful person passing still in the prime of her life! Dee was a great and valuable employee at Creations Salons as well as a wonderful and generous friend! May she rest in peace and her memory be eternal!
Adriana
February 17, 2026
I have so much words left to say and so many things left unsaid. Granny, you taught me the greatest and hardest lesson one could be taught, not to take things for granted while you have them. Thank you for all you´ve done for me while you were here. Thank you for welcoming 5 year old me and my siblings into a new family and never making me feel less than a grand daughter. I´m sorry I didn´t say this all while you were still here, but I know you´re listening someplace, somewhere. I love you forever
Patty Rotay
February 17, 2026
I will miss you and your posts. We met as freshman (wow 50 years) and had so much fun, I will always remember you and treasure our memories. To Ray and your girls, may hugs and peace find you! Xo Slinky aka Patty Rotay
Diane MacDonald OConnor
February 17, 2026
Very sad to hear this. RIP Deb. Adding prayers for her beloved family.
Patty Ferry Wertz
February 16, 2026
Debbie was simply a beautiful soul - full of kindness, warmth, beauty, wisdom, and love!! She was my friend since we were teens & we shared many memories over the years! She made everyone feel special & loved. She gave my son his first haircut & made it so fun! She was exceptionally kind to my Mom. She radiated with happiness & pride over her family always! So I think she had a wonderful life full of love & family! Ray, Kathy, Gina and family I share your sadness and believe you have an angel in heaven looking out for you! She´ll forever be in my heart!
Joanne
February 16, 2026
Debbie was such a wonderful part of our family. She always made everyone feel comfortable. She was incredibly thoughtful and warm, not to mention, hysterical. She will truly be missed. We love you Debbie!
Chrissy Giandonato
February 16, 2026
All my love to the family. Deb your love will live on within your amazing girls & their families. I am grateful for all the great times together down the shore and the day after Christmas. Thank you for opening up your homes and making those memories possible for all of us !
Love you Deb, you will be missed so very much ! Chrissy XO
Pam Savage
February 16, 2026
Deb and I shared so many years working together in the 80´s and 90´s- building memories that still warm my heart today. She made the world a brighter, kinder place simply by being in it. Deb was always there for me-steady, loyal, and unwavering. She had my back through every challenge, and in doing so, she made me a better person. Her friendship was one of the greatest blessings of my life, and I will cherish it forever.
Marion Rott
February 16, 2026
Debbie always treated friends like family. Always looked out for us growing up, no matter the situation. She will be greatly missed!
Jimmy Mcdevitt
February 16, 2026
I met Debbie over 50yrs ago at 68th Street park is where we hung out most nights if we were not going to a concert or party somewhere which she threw a lot of I´m talking Halloween New Year eve Super Bowl Stanley cup or just to celebrate any event in someone´s life lots of great memories were made at the 62nd Street house
Nina Fiore
February 16, 2026
Debbie was a beautiful soul, gone too soon. She had a contagious smile, always had kind words to say, she loved life and lived it to the fullest. She loved her family and adored her friends. I have fond memories to hold dear of all of us meeting at the beach, Music of the Arts benefits, Irish Weekend in Wildwood and everything in between. To Ray, Kathy, Gina and all her family... May the memories you have comfort you today and always. I´m so sorry. Love, Nina
Chrissy Martin Contessa
February 16, 2026
Dee was the most amazing woman. She was strong, loyal, friendly, fierce, and loving. Her laugh was infectious and she made you feel like you were the most important person in the room. She gave me many haircuts and perms on 62nd street and she was the only one my young daughter Elise would allow to cut her hair for years! She was a one of a kind and will truly be missed by many. Love you, Dee!
Steve, Lyn and Thalia DiRico
February 16, 2026
We visited Mom on our trip to Philly in October 2025. We had a wonderful visit with her, Ray, Gina, Rose and Tori. Mom was smiling to see the girls playing. She loves her family so much. We love Deb very and will hold her memory in our hearts forever.
Chelsea Snapp
February 16, 2026
I am so sad to have lost this pillar of my extended family. My mom Chrissy made Kathy my godmother and raised me with a tribe of wonderful women and Deb was a matriarch of them. I have such fun memories of my childhood that Deb was a huge part of. From the Christmas parties to trips down the shore. I will cherish them forever. My heart is with the whole family. Rest is Peace.
Ruth Henderson
February 16, 2026
Debbie was a kind thoughtful listener. She did double duty as hairdresser and therapist. She gave my kids their first haircut and was so patient and kind to my mother. She was a beautiful person inside and out!
Debbie Warfel Ebling
February 16, 2026
Don´t know where to start but here we go. Met Dee over 40 yrs ago. We were in our mid twenties. Met her through Laurie. She was recently divorced. Ran the bar scene & spent a few nights at her house in SW Philly, lol. Had lots of fun in the summers in Sea Isle and later in Wildwood with the girls. Laurie, Marilee, Honey, Tracy & Pam. I just reached out to her on January 7th. Was my 31st anniversary. Just thought of her that day because I met my husband because of her. She wished me a happy anniversary and I told her I was praying for her. Even though I had not seen her lately she was a big part of life and will never forget her and the difference she made in my life. Love you Dee, till we meet again
Roe Sulpizio-Franceschetti
February 16, 2026
Debi and I became friends when we started high school was always fun hanging out with her Sue Steckler all the girls. We always had a great time. She was a wonderful person and she will be greatly missed. I´m sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Karen Fanelli
February 16, 2026
Debbie was a great person, never judged anyone, always had a kind word. She was a second Mom to my Daughter Jacki. She helped me in more ways than one, that´s what she was about, always willing to help. I´m glad I got to see her at my Granddaughter´s baby shower on May 4th. Even being sick her spirits were high! I got to sit and talk to her that day, she was a wonderful person, and will be missed. RIP Deb, your legacy goes on!!
Jimmy Connell
February 16, 2026
She came from a great family. I remember little Skinny Debbie . I met her as a kid, cute, my neighbors on Bonnafon Street. RIP Debbie, your with Billy, Jimmy, and Marie, Mom and Dad.
Diane
February 16, 2026
Oh how I loved your mom so many years. We were single together and had fun which of course is Debbie. I wanted to share how loved your Mom was by all, I'm sure know that for sure. The sun came out and shined so brightly at the beginning of the memorial and all day. Such a light and gifted presence . Her spirit was strength, love and compassion. I remember how amazing she was during Christina Cullens cancer battle, the beef n beer fundraiser we hugged and danced. Sadly when Christina passed your Mom was there for Tom and Barb every minute even though I know your Mom was hurting as well. Oh how much she loved you all and her grandchildren proud. I am so thankful I knew your Mom what a gift. God bless all of you with strength she is a true loss. look for the signs, your Mom is with you always
Mary Dulin DeScioli
February 16, 2026
Debbie and I go back a long way from being raised together on Bonnaffon street . I have fond memories of her and I and Kathy Greller playing in the streets jump rope ! And later when we had our first daughters who became best friends! Debbie was a kind caring person who looked out for the girls her daughters grew up with! I was her demo model when she got her hair stylist certificate and of course she passed! Debbie will be deeply missed ! My hear felt condolences to her daughters and grandchildren and the Cullen family love Mary Dulin Descioli
Susan Coleman
February 16, 2026
Debbie was an amazing woman. You always felt like family when you were around her. She will be greatly missed.
Sue Yanik
February 14, 2026
Deb was the sweetest woman, with the best smile. She made the world a better place. She will be missed.
Sharon Zettle
February 13, 2026
Prayers of comfort for Ray & all of Debbie's many loved ones & family. Debbie was a light in this world. All of her love & beauty live on in her children, grandchildren & everyone she touched.
Chrissy cobelens reino
February 13, 2026
Debbie was a classy lady and the life of the party. She truly loved everyone and she always took time to hear your story and get involved in your life. A high school friend that i was lucky to have. Rest easy my friend. Keep that smile going
John Parker
February 13, 2026
I had the honor of meeting you,and you were so nice to me I will never forget that...may you rest in heaven
Mary Houton
February 13, 2026
I´ve been trying to find the right words to capture the meaning of what Deb has meant to me in my life.
She was more than just my friend´s mom. She was like a mom to all of Gina and Kathy´s friends. And she was a friend too.
She has been in my life since I was a teenager. And if you knew me then, then you know I needed people.
I found them.
Some of the best adventures I´ve ever had were possible because those women loved me like family.
And that´s who Debbie was... and it´s who Gina and Kathy are...
Hearts so big...
All are welcome, the more the merrier... keep the good times rolling.
But they are more than just a good time.
They are good people. The best.
Deb was such a role model. One of the strongest women I ever knew. Single mom for so long, doing it on her own. Always positive, always encouraging. Made you feel like anything was possible...
And she made her girls so strong. Lord knows Gina and Kathy could rule the world.
I know I´ve told her over the years, especially the last few, how much it meant to me... all the love...
But I still don´t think she´ll ever really know.
And I know there are so many just like me that will miss her forever.
It only seems fitting that we will say goodbye on the love day because that´s what she leaves to the world .
A lifetime of love and laughs and family and friendship.
We should all be so blessed to live a life so full.
You can rest now, Deb.
We love you
Catherine
February 12, 2026
Im so sorry for your loss.
Prayers for her family
Susan Stecklair
February 12, 2026
You will always be Debbie Cullen to me not Debbie or D. Best friends since first grade. She was my forever sister friend! Gone from my sight but never from my heart. I will miss you every day but so grateful for all the years we shared. You were my first friend and will always be one of my best. RIP my Warrior Queen.
I purchased a tree in her memory. Love ya forever!
Alice Wilcox
February 10, 2026
Sending you our deepest condolences for the loss of your Mom ... An incredible woman who cherished family and friends deeply.. ...
Remembering you with Love Deb.. all the years of fun and laughs during some of the best times in our lives !! Always a force of Love
Lou
February 10, 2026
May God bless Debra,Ray and your family in this time of loss.
Laura Phillips
February 9, 2026
Our deepest condolences to the family! Sending prayers for strength and guidance during these hard times! May she rest in peace! Love from Laura Phillips and family.
Jennifer Rossano
February 9, 2026
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Sending our deepest condolences and love. Deb was a wonderful person. So friendly and made you feel comfortable. She was the Hartford Road.
Eileen Teti
February 9, 2026
Dee always had a smile at work. She made us laugh, and will be missed. My condolences to the family, and friends.
Catherine
February 9, 2026
So sad
Gone toooo soon
Plz accept my sincere condolences on your most personal loss
May Debbie rest in peace with her loved ones
Joan stewart liberi
February 9, 2026
My deepest condolences to all of Deb´s family and friends, she will be surely missed by all who knew her.
Chelsea Whiten
February 9, 2026
I worked with Dee at Viva Salon before I moved away. I just found out about her passing and it breaks my heart. She was a wonderful person. Full of love, wisdom, humor and just plain fun. She loved my children and always chimed in with conversations of my clients and I. We had so much fun! She will be deeply missed. -Chelsea Whiten
Jessica Shiroff
February 9, 2026
Aunt Deb, you were the best! Youre energy and love gor life was awesome! You will be deeply missed!
Love,
Jessica Shiroff
Crina Drayer
February 9, 2026
Our deepest condolences to the family. Debbie was a ray of sunshine and will greatly be missed. Love from Crina Drayer and family.
Dana Orourke
February 9, 2026
Ruth Gifford
February 9, 2026
I met your mom at least 35 years ago. Maybe a little longer. She started doing my hair and we became friends. We were both southwest Philly girls and knew a lot of the same people. You always knew where you stood with Dee. I always looked forward to our conversations as much as my hair cut. We had talked about getting together for lunch. You always think there will still be time. She will always have a place in my heart. Love you Dee
Anne McCool
February 8, 2026
I first met your mom when I was pregnant in 1981. She took care of my salon needs until about 15 years ago. This makes me sad. She loved her family so much. I remember her extreme sorrow when her niece passed. My thoughts are with all her family and friends. Rest easy, Dee.
Tammy Rausch
February 8, 2026
Our families deepest sympathies to the family and friends of beloved Deb in her early transition into heaven. Heavenly Family, friends greet Deb, like my Ted, both new to Heaven! Ted was in constant prayer and care about Deb. For their suffering in this world is no more. I rejoice in the greatness of our Lord as we are not far behind. Ted & I always wanted to share our lake place with you guys, life gets all too busy and we understand. I would have loved to know you guys better. Ray, may your emptiness be filled with all the goodness and blessings that you carry on with in your heart and in your life as Deb will always be that special part of you and may you find peace in the love that carries on forever, here and into eternity. Ted deeply loved you both and surely he knows Deb is there and he is here in spirit for you. We are very grateful for your support and friendship with Ted. He too had to depart us too soon. Here for you anytime. Praying for your family and friends to find peace in this season of loss.
Sending love and gratitude, Tammy Rausch and family
Marilee
February 8, 2026
My dearest friend,
I have so loved our time together as friends. 44 years of so many memories.
I will always miss your glass half full outlook on everything and your infectious laugh. Until next time Deb
Rest in the love of those you are with now.
Love you always,
Marilee
THE CODY FAMILY
February 8, 2026
WE SEND OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. MAY OUR LORD TAKE HER SPIRIT INTO HIS HEART AND KEEP IT SAFE UNTIL YOU MEET EACH OTHER AGAIN.
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640 E Springfield Rd, Springfield, PA 19064
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