Deborah Helen Ramage

Deborah Helen Ramage, aged 74, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2024. Born on September 12, 1950, in Boston to parents Arthur and Simone McLellan, Debbie was raised in Milton, MA and lived there throughout her life raising her own family there as well.

Debbie was the second oldest of six daughters, including triplet girls Anne, Barbara, and Cheryl; and youngest sister Leslie. The passing of her eldest sister, Michelle, in August of 2024 was a heart-rending blow to the family.

Debbie’s love of French culture was deeply influenced by her parents, Simone and Arthur McLellan. Simone was a French war bride who emigrated from France to the United States with Arthur, a U.S. Army sergeant, during the liberation of France in World War II. Their history motivated Debbie to travel to France in her twenties, where she lived for 3 years; immersing herself in the culture and tracing her family history. She became fluent in French, and afterwards maintained a deep connection to her heritage for the rest of her life. 

In her professional and educational pursuits, Debbie earned a Master’s degree in Education and dedicated over 25 years to developing mental health programs at various Boston-area hospitals and institutions. Her exceptional contributions earned her numerous honors and recognitions as a service provider.

Debbie was a woman of many passions and interests. She loved gardening, reading, and painting, often creating beautiful scenes on seashells.

 A lifelong Boston Red Sox fan, she joyfully declared she could “die happy” after their World Series win in 2004. The night they clinched the title, she celebrated by kissing the ground—a memory her son, Nicolas, will always cherish.

Known for her profound humanism and empathy, Debbie supported everyone she met, encouraging them to “always do the right thing.”  Her sharp wit, quirky sense of humor, love for words, and penchant for giving nicknames, endeared her to all who knew her.

Debbie’s unconditional love extended to her family: She is survived by her son, Nicolas, his wife, Sami, and her two grandchildren, Henry and Sadie, whom she adored with unwavering vigor. Debbie shared a close bond with Sami, whom she cherished like a daughter.  She is also survived by 20 nieces and nephews, who were always in her thoughts and held her in deep affection. 

Her youngest sister Leslie, has been a guiding light for her, especially since the passing of her beloved husband Jonathan, in 2023.

Debbie’s humility, acceptance of others, and stoic faith were pillars of a good life. To her son Nick she was an angel on earth, embodying heavenly love. He finds solace in knowing she is now at peace.

A funeral service to honor Debbie’s life will be held at Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home in Milton, Massachusetts on Friday January 3rd.Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with a service to honor Debbie’s life immediately following.  

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to Alcoholics Anonymous, reflecting her lifelong commitment to helping others.

Debbie’s legacy of love, empathy, and joy will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.

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