With profound sadness, the family of Dr. Debbi Andrews announce her unexpected death on Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at the age of 66.
Born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, Debbi was the daughter of the late Basil and Julia Andrews. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 37 years, David Laughton; children: Donell (Ashley), Stephen (Mijung) and Sara (Chris); grandchildren, Sawyer and Tennyson; brothers: William (Laurie) and Thomas (Peggy); brothers- and sisters-in-law: Mary Frances, Brian, Muriel, Keith and Linda as well as numerous other relatives and friends.
An MD from the Harvard Medical School, Debbi came with her Canadian husband to Edmonton in 1987 as one of the first developmental pediatricians in Canada and the first in Northern Alberta. She devoted her career to alleviating the shortages that exist in medical resources available to support children with developmental and emotional-behavioral differences and their families. She provided leadership for the creation of innovative clinical programs based in Edmonton, and of new local and countrywide educational programs in developmental pediatrics at all stages of a physician’s career. Considered by her colleagues to be a superb clinician and medical educator, she was recognized in 2019 by the Canadian Pediatric Society with a Life Membership for “outstanding work in the areas of developmental disabilities and child mental health”.
A Funeral Service will take place at St. Peters Anglican Church, 11035 – 127 Street, Edmonton at 2pm on Saturday, June 4th, 2022.
The Funeral will be followed by a Celebration of Debbi’s life at which, amongst other things, people will have an opportunity to share memories in person or online.
All are also welcome to join Debbi’s family and friends in the church hall before the Funeral Service. The hall will be open at 1pm.
More information regarding the weekends events may be found at debbiandrews.ca
Memories of, or thoughts about, Debbi may be posted using instructions at the website debbiandrews.ca
Her family, friends and colleagues are in the process of establishing the Dr. Debbi Andrews Memorial Fund to support medical education in developmental pediatrics in Canada. For more information, please consult the website debbiandrews.ca
Oliver says
Such heartfelt sorrows to hear of Debbi’s passing. For the short time I knew her, she was always such a bright presence in the room and made all who talked to her feel heard and welcome. Her memory will be cherished. God bless her and may she rest peacefully.
Payne’s says
My family offered up our condolences she was an amazing lady who listened to us in our time of need an was always their to support our families unique challenges we Thankyou from the bottom of our hearts for all you have done for us over the last few years sending well wishes to the family in this time of need she helped change our life’s so Thankyou
Andrea Holmstrom says
Dr. Andrews assisted us with our son many years ago and was kind, considerate, gentle and very helpful. We, as parents, greatly appreciate everything she did for our son to assist us in bringing him to his full potential.
Erane McManus says
My sincerest sympathy to Debbi’s family for your tremendous loss.
I worked with Debbi at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital for many years, and admired her devotion to children and families. She was creative and energetic, always seeking new opportunities to serve. She taught us all about tenacity, compassion, and the rewards of pursuing excellence. As much as she was focused on her work, she very often shared stories and news of you all – she was so proud of you, and her face would light up as she talked. She will be profoundly missed.
Wishing you comfort and peace.
Lorna Berlinguette says
Many years ago at Robertson-Wesley United Church, your family sat in the balcony one pew in front of us, We sat with my parents, Belva and Brian Piercy, who really admired Debbie. I remember how devoutly Debbie prayed–always bending and leaning forward (How did I know?) I was impressed. One time someone in the congregation was sick and someone else called for a doctor. Debbie quickly stood up.. Then someone else called, “We need a doctor.” Debbie responded “I AM a doctor.” I wonder how many times she had that experience!
We are very sorry to lose her so soon.
Louis and Lorna Berlinguette
(Please add this to your book of condolences once it’s ready. Thanks)
Don Spady says
Barbara & I were saddened, and surprised, to read about Debra. I was a member in the Department of Paediatrics and our paths would cross there occasionally, but more likely we would meet serendipitously at the Fringe or some other civic event. It was always pleasant to meet and talk, to sometimes talk ‘shop’, but usually to catch up on life events. We will miss those moments.
Please accept our deepest condolences.
Pat Hilton says
IT WAS ONLY TODAY FEB 10 2021 THAI I LEARNED OF DEBI’S PASSING. I HAVE A HEAVY HEART FOR THE LOSS OF A TALENTED, KIND HUMAN BEING. WE WERE CLASSMATES IN HIGH SCHOOL AND IN FRENCH CLASS, DEBI WAS ALWAYS ANSWERING THE QUESTIONS. I CAN VISUAL HER SMILE AND KNOW THAT SHE AND HER FAMILY ARE IN MY PRAYERS. GOD ” BLESS YOU” DEBI.
Ruth Dilley says
To Debbi’s family:
I attended the 50th reunion for the Class of 1972 from Hunterdon Central this weekend. I was sorry to learn that Debbi had passed. I wish that I had known at the time about her passing.
My deepest sympathies!
Ruth Dilley
Ruth Dilley says
To Debbi’s family:
I attended the 50th reunion for the Class of 1972 from Hunterdon Central this weekend. I was sorry to learn that Debbi had passed. I wish that I had known at the time.
My deepest sympathies!
Ruth Dilley
Tiara M says
Dr Debbie was my childhood doctor I just wanted to say how sorry I was to hear she had passed. She was an amazing person and helped me so much in my childhood all the sympathy to her family.