Deborah W. Irish's Obituary
It is with great sadness that the family of Deborah “Debbie” Wesley (Notman) Irish, 78, announces her peaceful passing on Sunday, January 11, 2026. She passed away at her home in Springfield, Massachusetts, with her sisters by her side.
Born on April 6, 1947, in Springfield, Debbie was raised in Stafford Springs, Connecticut. Following her graduation from Stafford High School, she married Darien Irish, Sr. in 1965 at Hampton Beach, New Hampshire—a place that remained dear to her heart throughout her life.
Debbie enjoyed a distinguished career in the insurance industry spanning over 50 years. Her professional journey eventually took her to Keene, New Hampshire, where she dedicated herself to caring for her mother. An avid shopper, Deb’s favorite pastimes included walking the boardwalk at Hampton Beach, traveling, and following her favorite sports teams, specifically the UConn Women’s Basketball team and the Boston Red Sox. She was also a passionate NASCAR fan who rarely missed the excitement of the races at Daytona.
Above all, Debbie had a deep love for animals, having shared her life with many cherished dogs, rabbits, and cats over the years. She also held a special place in her heart for Lisa DesJardins, whom she loved as an adopted Big Sister throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Winifred (Wills) Notman; her father, Robert Notman; her brother, Bruce Notman; and her nephew, Eric Long.
Deb’s memory will be cherished by her sisters, Wendy (Notman) Long and her partner David Hemsworth of Palmer, MA, and Karin (Notman) Burns and her husband Paul Sr. of Stafford Springs, CT. She is also survived by her niece, Melanie Long and fiancé Gary Simpson Jr.; her great-nephew, Charles Wilson III; and her great-nieces, Alexis Wilson and Ariel (Wilson) Scott and her husband Walter and their son Kyrie. She also leaves behind her lifelong best friend, Penny Nicholas of Florida.
In accordance with the family’s wishes, there will be no services at this time. In honor of her beloved dog, “Mikey,” memorial donations may be made to:
Porter Road Pet Care, Inc., 141 Porter Rd, East Longmeadow, MA 01028 (413) 525-3532, or to The Connecticut Humane Society, 701 Russell Rd, Newington, CT 06111. To leave a condolence online for the family, please visit: https://www.introvignefuneralhome.com
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