Mitzi Austin
Dearest John and family, I was so saddened to just learn of your dear Debra's death. She will remain a wonderful memory in our hearts. Please accept our sympathy.
All our best, Mitzi and Wayne
Birth date: Jun 29, 1954 Death date: Oct 7, 2015
Debra A. (Richards) Stinson, 61, beloved wife and loving mother died at home on October 7, 2015. Born June 29th 1954, the youngest of two siblings, to the late Ashley Bradford and Alma Ruth (Mann) Richards in South Weymouth, MA. D Read Obituary
Dearest John and family, I was so saddened to just learn of your dear Debra's death. She will remain a wonderful memory in our hearts. Please accept our sympathy.
All our best, Mitzi and Wayne
I lost my beautiful, vibrant, loving, and dynamic mother...Mom. I have miles of words that I could type about what kind of incredible human being she was, her moral compass, the lives she touched and enriched, the knowledge she possessed and was eager to share, She was strong-willed, creative, intuitive, nurturing, wise, fair, hilarious, fun, caring, understanding, warm, patient, helpful, sacrificing, loyal, tender, a whiz in the kitchen, an expert on everything in my backyard....birds, plants, and critters. My Mom was my role model as a woman, a mother, a friend, and a wife.
I remember looking through my crib rails, as my Mom slept on my bedroom floor, during my bouts with walking pneumonia. Throughout my accidents (they were numerous), Mom held my hand, rubbed my back and made ER visits feel less horrible. I am grateful to have had the the last few months time with my Mom, being by her side, holding her hand, comforting her through this scary and heartbreaking journey. As Mom became ill and needed us for comfort and help, I could not help but think about those times of her caring for me. Repaying her was the least I could do for the lifetime of love, comfort, and protection she provided me.
I carry a lifetime of favorite moments with my Mom. Traditions that Mom started around holidays and life celebrations became a huge part of our traditions when Dave and I started a family of our own. Christmas began in the summer with her and I making ornaments, wreaths from vines in our backyard, making baked goods and jams to ship off to family in New England. Mom nurtured my creativity with everything from helping me make Halloween costumes, enabling my wild child side with hair and clothes, to my creations with any art medium. She held my hand during the birth of my first son and was by my side right after my second son was born. She was there for their first baths and was my supportive sidekick as I got the hang of breast feeding and becoming a mom. After moving a thousand miles away, there were countless phone calls that could last hours. Some days we spoke multiple times. There was never advice that she couldn't give and conversation and laughter was never in short supply. Traveling and exploring with Mom was always an unforgettable adventure. She was a doting mother, there for every childhood milestone, every play, recital, school event and as I grew into a woman she became my close friend.
I miss her so much, but I take comfort in seeing that her thumbprint is in my home, my yard, our family traditions, my voice, my handwriting, the way I interact with others, and of course, the reflection I see when I look in the mirror reminds me of my Mom. She could never be forgotten, she is part of the fabric of my life and her threads are woven into every aspect of it. Farewell, Momma.

Mimi broadened my world view. I remember Caity and I so many weekends going out to her house in Micanopy, Mimi playing "Talking Heads" and all of us singing along. I remember her house filled with healthy food, and it was there that I first developed an understanding of what it means to chose a different path. She loved art, education, and shared my love of crazy PBS British comedies. She was not like any of the other mothers! She was hysterical. They lived in a cool old farm house, she carved out her own, unique life; and I thought it was amazing. She was the first adult I met who I wanted to emulate...I don't know if I ever told her that, but it's true. I thought she was the coolest.
Over the years, Caity and I both moved and lived all over the world. And it wasn't until several years ago that I had Mimi back in my life. Regrettably it was mainly on Facebook- we had lunch when Caity visited, but I always wanted to reach out and hang out with Mimi, but time got away from me- being a mother myself now. But I can not count the times we talked extensively about politics, motherhood, and life dreams. Conversation was never shallow with Mimi and I loved her dearly for that. We actually talked almost everyday, and it breaks my heart that she is not here to share my thoughts with. But again, I count myself lucky to have known her at all.
Mimi was a fearless individual- a brilliant woman, and my life is better for having known her. She is one of the rare people who always elevated conversation, family, and life in general. I will miss her presence in so many ways.
My deepest condolences to all of you for your loss. She was and is a beautiful soul.
We remember Debra so fondly at the Harn Museum of Art, where she was our creative and dedicated gardener for a time. She took excellent care of our water lily ponds and other special landscape features, and was always cheerful and enthusiastic in everything that she did. We are all deeply saddened that Debra has left this world and send our deepest sympathy to John, the children and grandchildren.
Rebecca Nagy, Director, Harn Museum of Art
From my teen years, I remember Debbie Richards vibrant, strong and beautiful woman who had an infectious giggle and warm smile. Just a few years more wiser than I, not much taller. :) Then they brought us Caity and our world became brighter. Unbelievably so. I am so overwhelmingly sad for your loss, but her genuine sweetness is passed on through your entire family and everyone whose life she touched, of this I am certain. - Bernadette Caswell
Deb's great love for my brother brought me joy. Be with the Angels, Deb. STEF