Deborah Ann Darby

Deborah Ann (Kovalenko) Darby passed away suddenly on February 15, 2024 in Decatur, Tennessee. Deborah’s departure came as a shock and was deeply felt by her loving family and friends. She was born November 16, 1948 to Shirley and Ted Kovalenko in Detroit, Michigan. The Kovalenko family, including Debby and her siblings Lee, Tom, and Joan, later moved to Long Island, New York, where she graduated in 1966 from Earl L. Vandermeulen HS, Port Jefferson, N.Y. and met her beloved husband to be of 58 years, Douglas Darby. Together, they proudly raised their family of three children, Kim, Paul and Scott in Port Jefferson, NY. Blessed by the eventual addition of her children’s loving spouses, Matt, Lynn, and Coral, and the arrival of five amazing granddaughters, Jennifer, Kristina, Julia, Leah, and Brooke, her extended family was her priority and became the focus of her life.

Debby had a career as a registered nurse and enjoyed countless worldwide adventures with her family. As empty nesters, she and Doug retired to the wonderful Caribbean island of Montserrat in 1995, before moving to Tennessee in 2007. She will forever be remembered as a selfless wife, mother, and ”Grammy.” Blessed with passion, creativity, and an infectious personality. Debby had an innate ability to care for others, had a special talent for treating friends like family, and deeply loved those she held close. Debby’s ability to transform any space into a personalized, “Debby-ized” sanctuary, with her Caribbean turquoise blue accents and special touches will be cherished by those who knew her well. She found joy in any patio overlooking water and adored caring for her hibiscus flowers, cats and hummingbirds. She was always there with a hug, a smile, and a gift. While her presence will be greatly missed, her creative, vibrant spirit will always be remembered…. May her heart forever sleep by the sea.

A private celebration of life with family and friends was held at home on February 24th.

In honor of Debby’s memory, the family suggests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Wounded Warriors, or Tunnels to Towers.

Decatur Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to serve the Darby Family.