Obituary of Joan Marion Debly

It is with great sadness that the family of Joan Marion Debly (nee Mooney) announces her passing at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at the age of 84. Born in Moncton, NB, on February 5, 1941, she was the wife of the late George Magid Debly.

Joan leaves behind her children, Jason Debly (Paula Ultican), Andrew Debly, and Daina Debly (David Petryk); grandchildren, Jillian, Noah, Chloe, Lily, Charlotte, and Alexander; brothers, Jay and Dale Mooney; sister-in-law, Betty Mooney; and many extended family members. In addition to her husband, George, Joan was predeceased by her parents, James and Olive (Bunnell) Mooney, her brother, Reg Mooney, and her chosen daughter, Cheryl MacAulay (nee Baskin).

Joan was an avid reader whose love of stories and knowledge enriched her life and the lives of those around her. She found joy in creating beautiful quilts, each one stitched with care to hug and comfort the people she held dearest. Her kitchen was her sanctuary, a place where she expressed love through baking cookies, pies, and her famous Christmas fruitcake.

Joan also delighted in her garden, waiting patiently for flowers to bloom and fill her yard with colour. She freely shared her wisdom with others, offering guidance with patience and generosity. To many, she was a trusted confident. She was caring, non-judgmental, and compassionate listener who always found the right words of encouragement.

Her greatest joy came from her children and grandchildren, whose presence filled her heart with pride and happiness. A natural caregiver, Joan lovingly tended to her husband and parents with devotion and grace.

She will be deeply missed. Taken from us too quickly and too soon, Joan had many more plans for sewing, baking, and gardening. Though her time here ended before we were ready, we take comfort in knowing she is guiding us from Heaven.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Stroke Unit at the DECH, with special thanks to nurses Pam and Bernie, as well as Drs. Kenney, Inglis, and Falkner, for their exceptional care and compassion.

Visitation will be held at McAdam’s Funeral Home on Sunday, September 28, from 2:00 – 4:00 pm. The funeral service will take place at the J.A. McAdam Memorial Chapel on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 12:00 pm, officiated by Rev. Cecil Symes. A live stream of the service is available to watch at the following link: https://vimeo.com/event/5407098 . For those who wish, donations in Joan’s memory may be made to Greener Village.