THOMASTON — Deborah June Arni, 59, died peacefully June 10, 2015, in the arms of her children, at her home, following an extended illness.

Born in Cushing on July 21, 1955, she was educated locally and was a 1974 graduate of Medomak Valley High School.

Debbie is remembered by her children as a strong woman with an enduring spirit. She was a hard worker, always working three jobs to support herself and her children. They said she often sacrificed her own comfort to make sure they had what they needed. She was generous, kind and loving. Each week when she picked her children up from school on Fridays, they would walk to get an ice cream, something she had saved for throughout the week, ensuring they had a happy childhood.

Throughout her life Debbie has worked many jobs. She was a caregiver at heart, working as a private duty nurse for many years. On April 18, 1981, Debbie married Frederick “Fred” Arni in Warren. Her nurturing spirit didn't end at work, her devotion as a mother and wife continued as she cared for her ailing husband in later years. Her children were her number one priority and she loved nothing more than spending time with them and her grandchildren. Shopping trips were also favorite pastimes.

She was a godly woman and had a strong faith. Even through all she endured, she never complained, but continued to worry about others, never wanting to be a burden. Debbie ended each day with words her children will carry in their hearts forever, “God bless, angels protect.”

Debbie is survived by her beloved children, including her twin sons, Matthew Maxcy and Marc Maxcy and his wife, Lizzy, all of Thomaston; her daughter, Danielle Arni and her companion, Corey Rytky, of South Thomaston; her adopted daughter, Kristy Whitney of Hope; her grandchildren, Amber, Liberty, McKenna, Kaylie, Branden, Maddox, Coral Marie, Alexis, Kaitlyn, Kaleb, Kody and Asher; as well as her husband, Fred Arni of Torrington, Conn. She is also survived by several brothers and sisters, and extended family members. Much love is extended to Linny and Brenda Olsen, Linda Simmons and Valerie Simmons.

A celebration of Debbie's life will be held Saturday, June 27 at 3 p.m. at the home of her daughter at 71 Hill St. in South Thomaston. Friends and family are invited, but not required, to bring a favorite dish to share, wear casual attire and enjoy fireworks rain or shine, to celebrate Debbie's life.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home.