Debra Jo ( Barnes) Drennen, 58 of Collegeville, PA passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Sunday , September 9, 2018 after a courageous nine and a half year battle with Ovarian Cancer. She was the beloved wife of Donald R. Drennen for the past 37 years. Born in Binghamton, NY on July 30, 1960 she was the daughter of Jay R. and Joanne M. Barnes of Bradenton, FL.
Besides her husband and parents she is survived by three sons Michael R. Drennen and his wife Kathryn of Wrentham, MA, Patrick J. Drennen and his wife Meaghan of Norfolk MA, and William J. Drennen of Quincy MA and one daughter Katherine E. Turner and her husband James of North East, MD and three grandchildren, Charlotte M. Drennen, Madelyn E. Drennen and Jake R. Drennen.
She is also survived by a brother Joseph R. Barnes and his wife Laurie of New Canaan, CT, and two sisters Ann M Colangelo and husband Stephen of West Palm Beach, FL and Mary C. Ellias and husband Gregory of Stephens City VA. Along with many aunts, cousins , nieces and nephews.
To describe Debbie as Mom, Grammie, homemaker, teacher, volunteer, coach or leader would not do her justice even though she was all of those things. It would be much more accurate to characterize her as “everything” because that was what she was to her family and friends. Brilliant, creative, talented, thoughtful, caring, tireless, loving, selfless, strong, courageous and imaginative are also apt depictions. Wherever and whenever there was need within the family to take care of someone Debbie didn’t even wait to be asked; she just showed up to help and stayed until she was no longer needed.
Throughout her treatment for cancer she encouraged and educated others in trying to help them and their families cope with the things she knew all too well; she was an inspiration to many.
Calling hours are from 1-4 PM on Sunday September 16, 2018 at Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin MA 131 Main St (www.ginleyfuneralhomes.com). Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service at Franklin Federated Church 171 Main St, Franklin MA at 10 AM on Monday September 17, 2018 followed by interment at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA at 2 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Debbie Drennen Living Legacy Fund found under the Donor Designations on the Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation website (www.sandyovarian.org)