Obituary
Debbie
Rusoff passed away peacefully at home on December 13th, 2024 in Lithia, FL at
the age of 69. Debbie is survived by her husband, Richard; children, Michelle
(and Will) and David (and Alma); siblings, Marlene.
Debbie was born on February 14th, 1955 in New York, NY to Alicia
Berman and Bernard Goldenberg, and step father Lawrence Roth. She graduated
from Queens College in 1975 and later achieved a Master’s degree in Special
Education from C.W. Post. She married Richard, her college sweetheart in 1977.
Debbie began her teaching career in early childhood education.
The couple welcomed 2 children into their home several years
later. Her children remember her as being a loving, supportive and always present, driven mother who
encouraged them to pursue their goals. Debbie’s favorite role was that as a grandmother. She loved playing with play-doh, talking with
plushies, and going on special outings with her grandchild, Aiden. She treasured her time being a grandma. Debbie had a soft spot for her puppy Olivia, treating her like a
valuable family member. Spending countless hours caring for her little,
Wheetie/Fufu.
Debbie was accomplished at both teaching, organizing, and
decorating. She was a generous and dedicated individual who loved her family
and friends. Debbie was passionate about making a warm and comfortable
home celebrating the changing of the seasons and holidays, everyone looked
forward to seeing her latest creations. Her creativity carried over to
her classrooms, impressing the whole school. She actively participated and
volunteered with the Temple and pre-schools, where she spent much of her time.
A viewing
is scheduled for Wednesday, December 18th, 2024 from 5-8pm at Serenity Meadows
in Riverview, FL with a gravesite ceremony the following morning Thursday,
December 19th, 2024 at 10am. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Debbie's
life.