Born in Corner Brook, Newfoundland, Debbie later moved to Ontario, where she built her life and raised her family. In recent years, she returned home to the island she loved so dearly and settled in her favorite place, Twillingate, where she found peace and comfort in its beauty.

Debbie was the life of the party, full of laughter, warmth, and a deep love for those closest to her. Her greatest joy in life was her family, and her proudest and happiest role was being a grandmother. She adored her grandchildren and made sure each of them felt endlessly loved.

Debbie is lovingly remembered by her husband, Derm Brake, and their children: Tanya (Gary) Armstrong, Corina (Joe) Colacicco, and Hope (Leland Maccagno) and Corey Fudge. She was the proud grandmother of Jewel (Nick), Tia (Jake), Paolo, and Gabriel, as well as Justice, Triston, Xavier, and great-granddaughter Ellis.

She will also be deeply missed by her siblings Judy (Randy) Langdon, Rene (Kirk) Brake, Al Sheppard, Gary Sheppard, and Lori (Charles) Petten, and is predeceased by her siblings Guy Sheppard and Brenda Ruth, her beloved son Jonathan Brake, and her parents Annie and Herbert Sheppard.

Debbie will be forever remembered and missed by her many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Her family takes comfort in knowing she has found peace in the place she loved most. She will be remembered always for her laughter, her strength, and the way she made everyone feel like family.

A celebration of Debbie's life will be held at the Town Hall in Summerside, NL on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 7 PM. The family welcomes all to join!