SLINGERLANDS – Debra Ann Blanchet McGurn, 65, of Slingerlands, passed away on Monday, December 20, 2021 at St. Peter’s Hospital. Debra was born in Albany and lived here all her life. She was a 1974 graduate of Guilderland High School, and was employed by RCA, Main Care, Long Oil Co., and the University at Albany. She also played softball and enjoyed bowling, and supported her daughter’s efforts in these same sports.
Debra is survived by her beloved husband Thomas P. McGurn; her mother Marion A. Blanchet of Guilderland; her children Matthew T. McGurn (MinhTu) of Amherst, and Meaghan D. McGurn (Richard G. Kolesnikov) of Rotterdam; her siblings Michael Blanchet (Theresa) of Niceville, FL, Joseph Blanchet (Diane), Sue Lasch (Michael), and Robert Blanchet (Elaine) all of Guilderland; her grandson Thomas (Tommy) McGurn; and by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Deb will also be missed by her canine buddy Guinness and her feline friend Lilly. Debra was predeceased by her father Leo E. Blanchet.
Deb was a compassionate, loving, caring woman. She took great pride in the accomplishments of Matt and Meaghan. Deb felt that supporting people and animals who needed a helping hand defined a life well-lived. Prime examples of this belief can be found in Deb’s work with Meals on Wheels, her support of Peppertree, and her contributions to the City Mission. She made life better for every person with whom she had contact.
The family wishes to thank the staff of St. Peter’s Hospital for the wonderful care they provided for Deb during her stay.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday morning at 9:00 a.m. in All Saints Catholic Church, 16 Homestead St., Albany (behind CVS). Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the church after the mass from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Masks are required in the church. Interment will follow the calling hours in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Colonie. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Peppertree Rescue, PO Box 2396, Albany, NY 12220-0396. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hans Funeral Home, Albany. To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit HansFuneralHome.com.
Here is a video tribute to Deb:
Richard M. O’Brien
Sorry to here about your loss.
Hanh
Our deepest sympathies to you and your family.
The Nguyen family’s
Mark W. O’Brien
‘Gurn and family, sending you our deepest condolences in this time of sadness.
Lifting you up in our prayers.
Mark and Richard Ó Brien.
Wayne and Lynn LaFave
So sorry to hear about the loss of your sister. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Lisa Newkirk
I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved mother thinking of you..
Donna Baker
I am so very sorry for your loss. I am heartbroken for all of you. God bless.
Margot Plumadore Wyan
Bless you Deb and your wonderful family. You always welcomed me in like one of your own. I will never forget your kindness and hospitality.
Christopher White
Coach and family, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mrs. McGurn. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
JANE KING
Dear Tom, Matt and Meghan,
I am so sorry to hear of Debbie’s passing. I have such fond memories of Debbie and your entire family. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Her kindness and love will be with you always.
Sincerely,
Jane King
JoAnn Carter
So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Wendy Jordan & Frank Murray
Dear Tom,
We are so sorry. Had shared your hopes she’d be able to go home for the holidays, but it wasn’t meant to be. We are in CA, but will be back in the New Year. Until we can see you then, please know we are praying for you and your entire family.
Jerry Ryan
Tom,
I cannot fathom the degree of grief you must be experiencing. Cherish the memories you made together.
Ann McGarry
To Tom,
Joe and I are so saddened by your loss. Words are always inadequate at a time like this, but please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Ann
Neil and Mary Dugan
Tom,
Thinking of you and your family and sending our sincere sympathy.
May you find some comfort and peace in your memories of the time
you shared with Debbie.
Neil and Mary Dugan
Rafael Chaiken
Dear Tom,
I am saddened by this loss and send my deepest sympathies. I wish you and your children comfort and consolation.
Sincerely,
Rafael