In Loving Memory of Debra Parker-VanAtta
Debra Parker-VanAtta, 71, of McGraw, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, at Wilson Hospital in Johnson City, surrounded by love.
Born on May 23, 1954, in Syracuse, NY, Debra was the beloved daughter of the late Seymour and Pauline Parker and Karl and Sara ”Muller” Marvin. With a heart full of compassion and a lifelong dedication to helping others, Debra found her calling as a teacher’s aide at McGraw Elementary School. She had a special gift for working with children with special needs, offering them patience, understanding, and joy each and every day.
Debra was also a proud Girl Scout troop leader, a role that brought her great pride and lifelong friendship—most notably with her dear friend Judy. Known for her warmth and vibrant spirit, Debra cherished every gathering with friends and family. Whether she was soaking in the sunshine at DeRuyter Lake, laughing with teammates in her bowling league, or simply sharing a conversation, she brought light and love wherever she went.
She is preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Stacy Rogers.
Debra is survived by her devoted husband, Bill W. VanAtta, and her son Brett VanAtta, who was truly the light of her life, along with his wife Kaleigh. She is lovingly remembered by her Aunts Nancy Muller Anderson and Suzanne Muller Conley and her siblings: Karl (Kathy) Parker, John (Carla) Parker, Biagio "Butch" (Kudzai) Abbatiello, Mike (Denise) Abbatiello, Mark (Linda) Abbatiello, Deb Wendel, Darla Abbatiello Nonaka, and Cheryl (Bill) Stockton. Her heart was wide enough to hold a large extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends—each one touched by her kindness.
And of course, always by her side was her loyal companion, Zoey, the family dog whom Debra adored with all her heart.
In Debra’s memory, the family invites those who wish to make a memorial contribution to consider donating to the Cortland County SPCA or the Broome County Humane Society.
She will be missed more than words can say, and remembered with deep affection by all who knew her. Funeral services will be private. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, June 12th 5pm-7pm at the McGraw Community Center. All those that would like to pay their respects and remember her life are invited to join. In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask that you bring a dish to share as part of the refreshments at the Celebration of Life.
“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.”
To offer online condolences, please visit www.wright-beard.com.
