Debra Ann Pelletier, aged 66, passed away peacefully at her home in Aptos, California, on November 19, 2025. Born in Lowell, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of Joseph Raymond Pelletier and Lorraine Pelletier. Debra’s life was marked by her dedication to education and a love for the outdoors, particularly through her early experiences as a seasonal firefighter and forester.
Debra attended Notre Dame Academy, graduating with the class of 1976. After high school, she pursued higher education while working for the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management during the summers in various states, including Nevada, Idaho, and California. She earned her Master’s Degree in speech language pathology from Chico State University in 1990, and enjoyed a fulfilling 30-year career supporting special needs students in educational settings.
Beloved Community Member and Advocate
Outside of her professional life, Debra found joy in running along the beach near her home and traveling, particularly to tropical islands. Summers were often spent at her family home on Long Lake in Maine, where she cherished time with loved ones and close friends.
Debra is survived by her parents, Raymond and Lorraine Pelletier, her brother Raymond Pelletier and sister-in-law Michelle Pelletier from Pelham, New Hampshire, and several nephews and a niece. Her family also includes her sister-in-law Suzanne Pelletier and her husband Tom Roy.
She was predeceased by her brother, Paul Pelletier, who passed away in 2010. The family expressed their gratitude to the Hospice staff of Santa Cruz for their dedicated and compassionate care during Debra’s final days.
Remembering Debra and Celebrating Her Legacy
A private service will be held for family members at a later date. In honor of Debra, donations can be made to Hospice of Santa Cruz, located at 940 Disk Drive, Scotts Valley, CA 95066. Friends and family are also encouraged to consider planting a living memorial in her name as a tribute to her enduring spirit.
Debra Pelletier’s legacy will be remembered fondly by those who knew her, and her impact on both her community and the lives of her students will not be forgotten.
