Debra Ann (Puzick) Hallisy passed away on Sept. 24, 2024, at her home in Del Norte, Colo. She was 70 years old.
Deb was born in Colorado Springs, Colo., on Nov. 26, 1953. She graduated from Wasson High School in Colorado Springs in 1971.
While Deb had several interests– from skiing the moguls at Monarch, to fly fishing the Rio Grande and Arkansas rivers, hiking, and traveling – her greatest passion was evident her artwork. Whether it was acrylic paintings, jewelry, or “found art” created from assorted objects and artifacts, she had an eye for beauty and the hand to make something lovely. She had a knack, too, for turning a basic apartment or townhome into something that approached a small art gallery and studio.
Deb would not like the word, but she truly leaves a legacy. Deb touched many women’s lives as they began their journey in recovery. The love, compassion, empathy, and care that she extended to others has deep roots.
Through the art that she gifted to the world, and the new lives she helped women build, those roots will have offshoots and flourish.
Her greatest legacy, of course, is seen in her two sons, Conor and Nick. She loved them both fully and unconditionally. When Nick moved to the San Luis Valley, she was able to spend time with him while they both painted and created. Before her passing, Deb had the great delight to FaceTime with Conor and his wife, Ariana, and their new son, Sebastian.
Debra is survived by her son, Nicholas in Alamosa; her son, Conor, daughter-in-law, Ariana, and grandson, Sebastian in Houston; brother Steve (Trude) in Colorado Springs, Colorado; brother, Phil (Marsha) in Alexandria, Virginia; brother Vince (Jannetta) in Colorado Springs; nephews Martin, Andrew, Jim, and Terry; nieces Rebecque, Denise, and Jessica. She was preceded in death by her father, Eli; mother, Betty; and sister, Janie.
Although Deb was born and raised in Colorado Springs, she felt truly at home in the San Luis Valley. On Saturday, Oct. 19, her San Luis Valley friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life at the High Valley Community Center, 595 Grand Ave., Del Norte, Colo., from 1 to 3 p.m.
True to her spirit, Deb said, “to honor me, run in the rain, run through crisp autumn leaves, sit awhile at the river, listen to the thunder.”
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you support a local artist, art studio, or gallery in your community – particularly one that encourages young people to pursue their creative expression.
Rogers Family Mortuary of Monte Vista is in care of the arrangements. To leave online condolences, remembrances, or words of comfort for Debra’s family, please visit www.RogersFunerals.com.
