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302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

Debra Lynn Aulisa

Debra Lynn Aulisa, age 60, of Wilmington Delaware passed away peacefully with her husband at her side on May 17, 2018.

Debbie was a graduate of Claymont High School class of 1976. She graduated from Goldey- Beacom College in 1978 and married her high school sweet heart Jerry Aulisa in May of 1982. She worked for several years as a medical secretary at Papastavros Medical Imaging upon graduation from college. After the birth of her second child she stayed at home full time for several years to raise her children. Eventually she returned to the workforce but this time in the role of a teacher’s aide working with two and three year old children at the Bush Early Education Center in the Brandywine School District. She enjoyed her job and loved the children and the children loved “Ms. Debbie” in return. After fifteen years of service she retired from the school district and shortly thereafter was diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer of the pancreas and liver. A three and a half year battle ensued during which time she fought courageously against the disease and although her body eventually gave out her spirit never did. Always upbeat and one never to complain she was an inspiration to all those who knew her. She was a devoted mother, loving grandmother, loyal friend and the most wonderful wife a man could ever ask for.

She is preceded in death by her father Carl Phillip Bickling, mother Ann Bickling and sister Sharon Gabrylewicz.

Debbie is survived by her loving husband of 36 years Gerard (Jerry), her daughter Aimee Russell and son-in-law Andy, their children Madison and Brayden, her son Jerry Aulisa and his wife Sarah, her brother Carl Phillip Bickling II and his wife Millie. She is also survived by her mother-in-law Helen Aulisa, sister and brother-in-law Liz and Dan Waters and sister and brother in law Nancy and John Aulisa as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Neuroendocrine Cancer Awareness Network, at NCAN 3074 Brookchase Blvd. Indian Land, SC 29707.

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Funeral Services

Respects may be paid on Saturday May 26, 2018 from 9:00am to 11:00am at the Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike Wilmington, Delaware. A service celebrating Debbie’s life will be held immediately following visitation.

Condolences

    Benny Preston writes,
    So sorry to hear about my old neighbor. Debbie was a wonderful person and a good friend growing up. God bless you, Deb.. Condolences from all the Prestons to Carl, Jerry and the rest of the family. Sorry I will be out of town for the service.
    05/18/2018 07:01 pm
    Tina and Gene Fisher writes,
    We feel your loss. Debbie can rest easy now. She is still among family and friends even in heaven. RIP Deb.
    05/18/2018 11:42 pm
    Barbara M Ligatti writes,
    Many years ago I met Debbie when invited to an early AM breakfast club of school employees. Some of us continued to do things together off and on at our homes or out and about on field trips, planning silly adventures, and eating out ( cream donuts at Sweeney's were a favorite). Deb was the youngest and the beauty of the group with her blonde hair and blue eyes . Though I moved to CA a few years ago, we all tried to stay in touch, smiling and laughing just recalling our antics. Deb even wrote to let me know how things were going with her treatments and how her family was doing. What wonderful memories to cherish! I really admire Deb for she was a good listener, kind, considerate and honest. She stood up for herself, was no non-sense with her students and had common sense too. But the most amazing thing about Deb was her unselfishness. In both big and little ways she put her students, coworkers , friends and family before herself. I am one of many who will miss Deb and are blessed to have known her. May you rest in peace Debbie!
    05/20/2018 12:44 am
    Heather Dawson lit a candle and writes,
    My heart is with you all during this very difficult time. My prayers are with you.
    05/20/2018 07:40 am
    Joe Butera lit a candle and writes,
    Jerry and family, So sorry to hear of Deb's passing, we can only imagine the grief you must be experiencing. Hopefully, the fond memories of your amazing lives together will sustain you during this most difficult circumstance. Our most sincere condolences to all of you. Joe & April Butera
    05/20/2018 09:03 am
    Karen Johnson (Tosh) lit a candle and writes,
    Jerry and family. I share so many terrific high school memories of Debbie. May God give each of you strength during this difficult time. Sending special love and blessings across the miles.
    05/20/2018 09:09 am
    Anna Hook lit a candle and writes,
    So sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you
    05/20/2018 09:51 am
    James Magee, University of Delaware writes,
    Jerry, please accept my sincere condolences to you and your family on the loss of your wife, Debra.
    05/20/2018 12:19 pm
    Joan Hunt Worley writes,
    Aulisa Family, So sorry for your loss. Debbie and I worked in different departments at Papastavros Assoc.. She was a lovely person and so much fun to work with. Yes, we got our work done, too. My prayers and thoughts will be with you during this difficult time. Joan Hunt Worley
    05/20/2018 06:54 pm
    Pat & Joyce Cubler writes,
    May you find comfort in your many memories of Deb and all she meant to you. Our Deepest Sympathy
    05/20/2018 08:41 pm
    Linda Campbell DiSabatino writes,
    To Liz and her family we offer our sympathy at the loss of your sister in law. The death of a sibling is difficult and we hope that your family supports and loves each other to help get through this very sad time. Mark & Linda DiSabatino
    05/21/2018 10:17 am
    Tom Ciconte writes,
    Deepest sympathies to Jerry and family. Debbie will be missed by all.
    05/21/2018 02:31 pm
    Keith Brofsky writes,
    One of the kindest, most cheerful, genuine people I had the pleasure to know in high school. Losing Debbie is saying farewell to a special part of my youth. My deepest condolences to Jerry and her children. Godspeed Debbie.
    05/21/2018 08:42 pm
    Fran (Donohue) Sailer lit a candle and writes,
    Jerry, I am so sorry to hear about Debbie. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
    05/21/2018 09:09 pm
    Bette Cancilla lit a candle and writes,
    So sorry for your lost. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
    05/26/2018 07:19 am

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