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Margaret Bernardo DeBella - Class of 1972

Submitted by Fran Olson Gustafson 1965 <fgustafson917@gmail.com> on 24/May/2026
71.223.158.23

    Margaret "Maggie" Bernardo-DeBella entered into rest on May 21, 2026. She was at her home in Marlboro, NY, in the company of her beloved dogs and the solace that comes from a life well lived. Margaret, daughter of Dominick and Frieda Bernardo, was born on March 30, 1954 in Newburgh, NY.

She was a Registered Nurse, proudly working at Barnet Memorial Hospital in Paterson, NJ for the first half of her career, and she retired from The Turning Point (part of the former St. Francis Hospital-Poughkeepsie, NY).

She is survived by her four children, Joseph DeBella (Clatude), Danielle Derham (Brian), Dominic DeBella(Tessa), and Nicholas DeBella, her five grandchildren, Jayla DeBella, Lily Derham, Benjamin Derham, Vincent DeBella, and Josephine DeBella, her sister Denise Barley, and many cousins and devoted friends. On Maggie's behalf we must offer a special show of gratitude for the friendship of Joan Devine and Allen Hines.

Maggie was a hard-working woman who dedicated her life to her children and her dogs. She was sharp-witted, often striking with a sense of humor that was unmatched, and, for that, we have spent many hours laughing in her company. She had a strong faith in God, and she believed He guides us to where we need to be. She found joy in the simple things: daily trips to The Dollar General, the luxury of Tide Pods with Downy Softener, her Friday's serving at the Saint Francis Food Pantry, Sunday Service at The Church at the Bridge, and the fine cuisine offered at Tony's Newburgh Lunch. Her favorite entree was a tuna melt on rye with Tony's special sauce. But, her most joyful moments include watching her children and grandchildren grow.

Maggie will be missed, but more importantly, she leaves us all with a piece of her spirit, her strength, and her unrelenting faith that all things happen for a reason.

Calling hours will be held on May 26, 2026 from 4-7 p.m. at DiDonato Funeral Home in Marlboro, NY. A Celebration of Life will occur at the Church at the Bridge at a later date.