Debbie's Legacy: A New Headstone for Peace

After more than 30 years of loving marriage to our mother, who passed away in late 2021 after bravely battling cancer, our "father", John, recently made a choice that has deeply hurt our family. We were informed by Bel Air Memorial Gardens that he has no intention of being laid to rest beside our mother, and wants his name removed. A request that has recently come, just after his new marriage. So, as it stands, she remains alone with her name engraved beside someone who no longer wishes to be connected to her, even in death.

John has declined to cover the cost of a new headstone for our mother bearing only her name, despite continuing to receive her pension and benefits. We feel strongly that she deserves to be honored with dignity, even if it means correcting something so painfully symbolic.

As a family, we have decided that Kirsten, (Debbie’s step daughter), will take John’s place on the grave stone. We feel this is something Debbie would want; Kirsten is navigating a divorce, and Debbie would want Crystal and Amanda to be buried with their spouses. Kirsten is the only person from the Verbillis name who has continued to honor her to this day, even in death. This would also allow a final resting place that her children can visit both their grandmother and mother, whilst insuring Debbie is never alone. Kirsten had a very strong relationship with Debbie during the last 18 years of her life, and she has expressed a feeling of peace and honor, to have a final resting place next to her step mom, who she described as her mother, sounding board and ultimate cheerleader. We are humbly asking for any size donation, to help make this happen. The new grave stone will simply say :

Deborah Anne

Kirsten Anne

John has completely severed ties with most of our family—including his daughters and many of his grandchildren. He has made it clear, that he has a new life and has distanced himself from the 30+ people who loved and supported him for decades, during his marriage to Debbie, and after. This is not written out of spite, and there are much worse facts to it, but we are trying to stick to the relevance in this matter and reveal a small bit of info so that you understand our plea for help from those who loved Debbie. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts, and will update you on the completion

- Kirsten, Crystal, Amanda