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DEBRA ANN GRISAFFI COLIN
October 20, 1955 – September 16, 2026
Debra Ann Grisaffi Colin, is a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, friend, and confidante. Her legacy leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, memories, and countless lives she touched along the way. Debra was a woman who was full of life. She always reminded those around her, “You are only as old as you feel.” She believed in enjoying life, loving her family, and making the most of every moment.
Debra was the daughter of the late Joseph Dominick Grisaffi of New Orleans, LA, and the late Marie Louise Governale Grisaffi of Franklin, LA. She is survived by her incredible husband of 51+ years, Calvin Joseph Colin, Jr. of New Orleans, LA, both alumni of O'Perry Walker Senior High School in Algiers, LA. Together, Debra (aka Debbie or Deb) and Calvin Jr. have four children: Calvin III (Emerald), Chrysanthema (Kelly), Joseph (Chavannah), and Tiffany; nine grandchildren: Kelia, Desmund, Meridian, K'Jawn, Brandon (Breeanna), Karissa, Jayden, Valan, and Annalisya; and three great-grandchildren: Ava, Lacie, and Casey. Debbie is also survived by her siblings Gary (and the late Mary), Tommy (Karen), and Timmy (Brenda) as well as a host of nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.
Debra's family was her heart. She treasured every gathering, every conversation, and every moment spent together with those she loved. She will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her love of music and dancing, her laughter, her creativity, and the way she made life feel a little brighter simply by being present. We will miss joining her for her favorite soap operas, television shows, and movies; her cooking and singing, her cake decorating, and most of all spending intentional quality time with her. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life and had a special way of bringing warmth, happiness, and love to everyone around her. Her absence will leave an immeasurable emptiness in the hearts of all who loved her, but her memory and the love she gave so freely will live on through the family and friends she cherished so deeply.
Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing that her love will never leave us. She will continue to live on in every family recipe, every song that makes us dance, every story that makes us laugh, and every memory that brings tears to our eyes and smiles to our faces. Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever in our hearts for all eternity. “You are only as old as you feel.” Debra & Mom, you certainly lived that way. Dance on, listen to your music, watch your soap operas, cook up something wonderful, and keep smiling. We love you more than words could ever say.
Funeral Services will be held at St. Cletus Catholic Church located at 3600 Claire Avenue, Gretna , LA 70053 on Wednesday , September 23, 2026 at 12 PM. Arrangements handled by Mothe Funeral Homes. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice or masses preferred.
Upon completion of services, the family will gather at (location will be provided soon). Family and friends who knew and loved Debra are warmly welcome and cordially invited to join us in celebrating her life, honor her memory, and offer their condolences. Those that are in Christ fall asleep. Sleep well Debra & Ma. Until Jesus returns!
The family invites you to share your thoughts, fond memories, and condolences online at www.mothefunerals.com.
St Cletus Catholic Church
St Cletus Catholic Church
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