With saddened hearts, we announce the passing of Debra Phillipo, 70, of Blacketts Lake on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

Born in Sydney, she was the daughter of the late Douglas and Lavina Musgrave.

Debra started working for Clover Group in 1974, (later Sysco Food Services), where she retired in Halifax, October, 2013, to return home to her family in Blacketts Lake, leaving behind her work family whom she truly loved.

Debra is survived by her life partner, Gerald Kendall, of 34 years; son, Douglas Phillipo; daughters, Victoria (Jason) Weldon and Leone (Jason) Phillipo; brother, Doug (Susan) Musgrave; sisters, Arleen Musgrave, Coleen (Gary) Musgrave, Karen (Elmer) MacInnis, and Paula (Jim) Hastie; grandchildren, Dylan, Hailey, Samantha, Chelsea, Casey, Natalee, and Alexis; and great-grandchildren, Zachariah and Isaiah.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Palliative Care, especially nurse, Deanna Harvey, who formed a special bond with Debra and was accepted into her family as a true friend; as well as Renee Morrison, of the Emergency Department (Debra told everyone Renee was her Angel), and Dr. Everett Fuller. Special thanks to Dr. Meaghan Keating, and her special housekeeper, Pebbles (D.R.).

Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 6 Churchill Drive, Sydney, NS, 902-539-7175. Visitation will take place on Saturday, December 14, 12 – 2 pm at the funeral home followed by a funeral service in the Chapel at 2 pm, Rev. Sheldon Chant officiating. For those unable to attend, livestreaming will be available and can be viewed by visiting T.J. Tracey Cremation and Specialists Facebook page.

Donations in Debra’s name may be made to Palliative Care and The Cancer Society.

Words of condolence may be made to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com.