Deborah Dinneen Ruffin, June 10, 2025 in Norwalk, CT. Debbie went home to our heavenly father on June 10, 2025, just three weeks before her 79" birthday. She led a full and rich life filled with family, service, devotion, and kindness. Her favorite word was Gratitude.

Born July 1, 1946 in Boston, Mass to Justine and Joseph F. Dinneen, Jr., Debbie was the oldest of eight children who grew up in Needham, Mass. An excellent student, she graduated from Needham High School and then Westfield State College. Later she received an MBA from Sacred Heart University where she also studied religious education.

In 1969, Debbie moved to Connecticut where she worked for the telephone company as a service representative and later was chosen to become a computer programmer, a highly competitive position at the time. She rose to management rank before retiring after 25 years. At that point, Debbie embarked on her second career as Director of Religious Education at several parishes, including St. Mary's in Norwalk. She was part of the National Association of Parish Directors of Religious Education for New England.

Debbie was a devoted volunteer, assisting those in need and the youth. She was Board Secretary of the local Girl Scouts and Treasurer for the food pantry in Stamford, CT. After retiring for the second time in 2021, Debbie moved to Pocasset, MA. and resided at the Cape Cod Senior Residences. She continued to volunteer there for St. John's Parish and social activities at CCSR. She was cared for in her final days by her devoted daughter and best friend, Jenny Ruffin Ross, her son-in-law Honsy and grandson Kemari.

Debbie married the love of her life, Perlie Ruffin, and they were married for 27 years until his passing. They both enjoyed volunteering, cooking and laughter. Debbie is survived by two children, Jennifer Ross (Hassaan) and Todd Hynes (Anna), stepdaughters Trinetta Ruffin and Renee Harrington (Andre), eleven grandchildren, and six of her seven siblings.

Services will be held on Tuesday June 17 at 5:00 PM (visitation) and Wednesday June 18 at 10:00 AM at Raymond Funeral Home, 5 East Wall Street in Historic Norwalk.

Please visit www.Raymond.Care to leave an online condolence for the family.

Raymond Funeral Home (direct link to obituary)