On this Mother’s Day, we are deeply saddened to say good-bye to our most precious mama, Deborah Ann Stark Bonacci. She was 68 years old. Thought of as the most beautiful person in the world by her family, “Debbie” gracefully joined her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, her beloved grandmother, “Muggy”, and her father, our hero, “Papa”, in heaven on April 28, 2018. Those who met Debbie thought she was one of the funniest people they’d ever met, with an incomparable quick wit, engaging humor, and a huge smile. Those who truly knew Debbie fell in love with her gracious heart and loving kindness. Friends, family and strangers alike always wanted to be in her company.
Born in Phoenix, Arizona on February 10, 1950, to J. Robert Stark and Lucille K. Meier, Debbie attended Central High School and was a Board of Visitors Flower Girl prior to attending USC where she pledged Alpha Delta Pi. She later graduated from ASU and was actively involved in the Junior League of Phoenix prior to devoting her life to raising her children in the 1980s. Debbie found great happiness in running the Scottsdale Soccer League, where, as the only female coach in the league, she led her son’s team, the “Predators,” to an undefeated soccer season and championship, boisterously yelling “shoot!” at just the right time. She was a hometown sports fan, watching the Suns, Cards, and DBacks religiously, win or lose. Debbie also fervently supported the Wounded Warriors Project in addition to several animal rescue charities.
Debbie lived life with true passion and heartfelt emotion, exemplified in the endless love and dedication she showered upon her children and grandchildren. Although practiced primarily in her own space, Debbie’s devotion to the Lord was immeasurable. Her faith engrained in her an infallible moral compass, allowing a profound and constant conviction to what is good and what is right. She shined as an artist, a gardener, a pet lover and a writer. Her gorgeous Christmas decorations and elaborate birthday parties will always be remembered as she made every holiday and event special beyond compare. Debbie also excelled as a mother, developing precious bonds with both of her children who will always remember her as their closest friend.
Debbie is preceded in death by her father, J. Robert Stark and her brother, Robert Smith Stark. She is survived by her two children, Andreas (Bonacci) Borta and Nicholas Bonacci, and her two grandchildren-the latest loves of her life-Brooke and Cole Borta. She also leaves behind her dear mother, Lucille K. Stark, for whom she cared for in her home, and her dog, Wynston.
While the unexpected loss of our precious mama is painful beyond words, her family finds solace in having witnessed her passing into an incredible peace, a true Bliss that only the Holy Spirit can bring. Sweet mama, your kindness and generosity is matched only by your strength and your resolve, God is lucky to have you home as his returning Angel. We will forever miss you and strive to reflect you in our best selves.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, our mama, for loving us so. In our minds, we love you more than any child has ever loved a mama. Though our hearts are breaking, we look forward to seeing your beautiful face again one day and reuniting in spirit.
Services will be held on Sunday, May 20, 2018 at 3:00 P.M., at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Wounded Warrior Project or Posh Pets Rescue. Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfh.com
Jay Himelstein
I knew Debbie for many years, She went to Madison Meadows and Central High with me. She was a beautiful girl, who despite her popularity, was kind and considerate to ALL kids. She was bright and funny. She was fun to be with at the Baseball Games or School dances and events. She was a very SPECIAL person respected by all with whom she met. GOD BLESS her and the Family.
Posey M NASH
My DeDe Lamb, we had such a good time! Growing up I always wanted to be just like you. 5’2″ and blonde!
You and Nancy Sinatra had the look! Thank you for for being my roommate out at ASU in a 3rd floor apartment, so we were safe! The “Loon” recovered all our furniture and it was amazing…Our Dad’s made sure we had the hottest cars, and your 442’s were legend, as you will remain … a legend in my heart……..
Posey M NASH
Posey M NASH
May 12, 2018 at 9:45 am
My DeDe Lamb, we had such a good time! Growing up I always wanted to be just like you. 5’2″ and blonde!
You and Nancy Sinatra had the look! Thank you for for being my roommate out at ASU in a 3rd floor apartment, so we were safe! The “Loon” recovered all our furniture and it was amazing…Our Dad’s made sure we had the hottest cars, and your 442’s were legend, as you will remain … a legend in my heart……..
Sheri Stroud
Tell me this is not real. I can’t believe I can’t call you up and listen to your crazy laugh! We have been pals since first grade and had so many adventures – remember Mazatlán and the rats in our room? Yikes! Remember our shoe shine business that we finally had to give up? I could go on and on…..Spanky I will miss you forever! I am so thankful that you were able to produce the most amazing children – they are both priceless! And I am glad you got to spend time with your grandbabies….they are awesome. Rest in peace, lamb.