Obituary of Debbie Riordon

Deborah “Debbie” Mary Riordon passed away peacefully surrounded by her family and friends on Saturday, February 22, 2025 in Fredericton, New Brunswick. She was born on May 16, 1952 in Corner Brook, Newfoundland, to Kevin Wiseman and Grace (Sexton) Bowes. Her mother and stepfather, Philip Elford, moved the blended family to Saint John, NB, in 1964. 

Debbie will be missed by her daughter, Deidre Riordon (Zacharie Roy); granddaughter, Emma Scott; siblings, Joan Wilson (Reg), John Elford, Mary Lou Doucette (Chris) and sister-in-law Anne Elford; special friends, Pat Belding and Christine Benjamin; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and many other dear friends.

In addition to her parents and her brother, Tony Elford, Debbie was predeceased by her children, Jacob Scott, Rhoda Scott, and Shane Riordon, for whom she was a dedicated advocate.

Debbie possessed a beautiful hippie soul and lived life on her own terms. She was a cherished mother figure to countless people who were fortunate to have her in their lives, always offering unwavering support and a warm, home-cooked meal made with love. She was known for her love of a good party, dancing, and lobster, along with her impressive collection of peace signs and elephants. Debbie had a keen eye for fashion and took great joy in discovering unique pieces to add to her wardrobe. Christmas always brought an abundance for those in her life, and many looked forward to opening the parcels she sent each year. Throughout the rest of the year, if you needed something, there was a good chance she had the perfect item on hand.

In the 30 some years Debbie lived in the Niagara region of Ontario, her heart resided in New Brunswick, visiting numerous times every year and eventually moving back to Fredericton in 2019. Debbie loved to travel to warm destinations, and had her “bucket list trip” to Hawaii in 2012 with her daughter, Deidre. 

A special thank you to Connie Goodine, the staff at 4NW and Palliative Care at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital, and especially to Dr. Lee, Dr. Sikander, Dr. Baird, and Dr. Sainz.

Debbie enjoyed a special Hawaiian-themed gathering with family and friends in her room on 4NW on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

A celebration of Debbie’s life will be held on May 3, 2025 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at the Charlotte Street Arts Centre Auditorium; all are welcome.

Donations in Debbie’s name to the Niagara Children’s Centre (Donate - Niagara Children's Centre) or to Colter’s Cause in support of IWK pediatrics (https://iwkfoundation.org/ways-to-give/in-memorium-tribute-giving) would be appreciated by the family. To leave a message of condolence, please visit www.mcadamsfh.com