Debra A. Handy

Debra ‘Debbie’ Handy, age 69, formerly of Orange passed away peacefully with her family by her side Tuesday March 29, 2022 in North Branford. She was born December 21, 1952 in New Haven, Connecticut to the late Vincent and Nathalie Taragowski.

She was a graduate of Alleman High School in Rock Island, IL. Prior to her retirement, she was an Office Manager for Taylor & Francis and was credited as an editor for one of their many educational publications.  She loved reading and anything to do with Animal Rescue and Service Dogs.  Her favorite song was Hallelujah which her granddaughter would sing to her to soothe her ills. She was a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and friend.

She is predeceased as a beloved niece to Joel Grillo and Ann Drury Grillo, whom she both cared and loved for tremendously. She is survived by her son Jonathan Handy and wife Charlene Wray, sister Vanessa Taragowski and husband Robert Bartoszewicz, grandchildren Dana Wray, Denise Wray, and Laycee White, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.  

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday April 3, 2022 from 5pm – 7pm at the Keenan Funeral Home 238 Elm St West Haven, CT.  The family would like to express our thanks for the wonderful help and care given by Masonicare of Wallingford and Yale New Haven Hospital.  

In lieu of flowers, friends may make memorial contributions to Out to Pasture in Newington or Masonicare of Wallingford.

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