It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Debra Lee Clifford, beloved daughter, sister, aunt, wife and friend. Debra passed away Thursday, September 22, 2022 at the age of 67 in Devon, England, after a brief and serious illness.
Debra is survived by her loving wife, Becca Clifford-Wintle, brother, John P. Clifford III (Lynnie), and nieces, Carly Clifford Ruhland (Ryan), Coren Clifford (Fiancée, Adam Drinkwater) and many dear friends.
Debra was born in Fairport, NY to John Clifford Jr. and Ruth Adams Clifford. She was a graduate of SUNY Geneseo and The University of Rochester. Debra loved humans and animals alike. She was incredibly warm hearted, compassionate and patient. Debra taught special education in the city of Rochester and was a shining example of kindness and equality. She rescued countless animals, big and small. She especially loved her cats Omie and Henry; Omie who traveled to the UK with her from Massachusetts. Debra was prominent in the music community. Specializing in Old Americana and Bluegrass. She was an incredibly talented, self-taught musician, avid in playing the mandolin, banjo and guitar with a beautiful harmonizing voice. She took great pride in organizing the Old Time Rollick at the Ashokan Center in Olivebridge, NY. Debra was also a part of The Lonesome Sisters, a duo with dear friend, Sarah Hawker Ginseberg, which was voted Best Acoustic Duo 2006 by Gibson Guitars. She was also in the duo The Farwells with her wife, Becca. An American expat antique dealer now living in rural Devon, England, Debra had a great passion for history and genealogy. She founded Ancestorville.com where she dove into all things historical. She was incredibly adventurous and loved traveling with her wife. She truly loved her family, nieces, friends and life.
Debra’s light shined so brightly. She positively impacted everyone she met. Her genuine heart, laugh and smile will be so missed by all that loved her.
No funeral or memorial service is immediately planned. The family will notify loved ones in the future when a service is scheduled.
Comments
7 responses to “Clifford, Debra Lee”
Debi is my cousin I grew up with and loved staying with many weekends. We would put on plays and sing and record and laugh our way through the day. Love you Debi!
I knew Deb when she lived on Hamilton St. and later on Averill Ave., both in Rochester, NY. She was a bright light, as mentioned, and a very warm, inclusive woman. I had the pleasure of hearing her play in Rochester, Provincetown, and at the Grassroots Festival with Sarah. Deb was an incredible musician and smiled all throughout her playing and singing. She was a pleasure to watch. I am very sad that she died, knowing how much she gave of herself to the world. My deepest and warmest regards to her wife Becca. I know she loved you dearly. And to Johnnie, Lynnie, and her nieces : she talked about you all the time. You too have my deepest, heartfelt condolences.
I was so sorry to hear of Debbie’s passing. Although it’s been some time since I have seen Debbie. I remember all of us enjoying our childhood together. She was a sweetheart. She’s your angle now. ?
Thank you for your music. It was a beautiful gift.
I knew Debbie from elementary school on up to high school. She was such a sweet, kind person. It’s been many years since we last saw one another but I’ll always remember our friendship.
My sincere condolences to the Clifford Family.
Debbie was one of my best school friends from Fairport and attended my wedding. Yes she was sweet, kind, and always beaming with the biggest smile. She even nicknamed me “Bat:” as a short for my maiden name. I have wondered at times where she was and what she was doing. I am sad to hear of her passing yet glad to know her bio and impressive accomplishments. . My sincere condolences for your losd.
Brian and i are so sad to hear of this. Debra was truly a shining light in this world. Her generous warmth, kindness, and love touched everyone who knew her. Becca, our hearts go out to you. Sending love… Brian and Lisa Sullivan. Chatham, New York