On October 17, 2013, Deborah Sue Dafonte, age 59, passed away at Christus St. John Hospital in Nassau Bay, TX. Born Deborah (Debbie) Carter on December 2, 1953, in Tampa, FL., she attended St. Patrick’s Elementary School and graduated from Ball High School in 1972. She played catcher for the Lassie League softball from age 8 until she graduated from high school. Debbie spent most of her life in Port Bolivar retiring from UTMB’s asset management department after 10 years of service. Debbie and her family moved to La Marque, TX. in 2008 where she lived until her death. Debbie was an avid fisherwoman, a talented cook, loved to play computer games, and spending time with friends and family; especially her grandchildren. Debbie battled cancer for 16 years and was active in several Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure activities, proudly wearing her favorite color, pink whenever possible.

Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, John and Violet Carter; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Benito and Mary Dafonte; cousin, Robin Reznicek; grandmother, Marguarite (Nonnie) Carter; and uncle, Joe Silva.

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Dario Dafonte; son, Jon-Paul (wife Dr. Christy Dafonte); daughter, Jenny (husband Jesus Enriquez); son, Jered (fiancé Christina Meeks); 5 grandchildren: Ethan, Sean, J’Amya, Jered Jr., and Neil; sister, Cathi Griego (husband Max Griego); brother, John Carter (wife Cathy Carter); aunt, Rosita Johnson; brothers-in-law, William Dafonte and John Dafonte (wife Tammy Dafonte); sister-in-law, Pat Dafonte; and numerous nieces, nephews, additional relatives and friends.

Debbie’s family will receive visitors beginning at 5:00 pm, Monday, October 21st, at Malloy & Son Funeral Home. Rosary service will follow at 7:00 pm.

Funeral Mass will be Tuesday, October 22nd at St. Patrick Catholic Church starting at 10:00 am. Father John Taosan, OFM, will serve as celebrant for the service. Burial will be at Port Bolivar Community Cemetery at 1:00 pm.

Pallbearers will be John Carter, Max Griego, Gino Griego, Johnny Griego, Mark Nezat, Melvin Senegal, and Ethan McAlpin.

Debbie’s family wishes to express their sincerest thanks to Dr. Khouri, Dr. Hassan, Lisa, and Yvonne at MD Anderson Hospital for all their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.