Appreciation: Debby Spalding

How many fellow humans does one person affect during the course of a lifetime? It is not an easy thing to define, in the normal course of events.

However, sometimes it takes a person’s passing to bring to light the many people who were touched and changed by one person’s simple acts of kindness over the course of years.

When Debby Spalding of Salisbury suddenly died May 1, the many, many people who attended calling hours in North Canaan, and then her funeral in Lakeville, illustrated the strength and far-reaching effects of her legacy. There were so many who wanted to offer their support to her family, to share in both their grief and remembrance.

Debby volunteered at many nonprofit organizations in the Northwest Corner region over the course of 30 years, and made a real difference in the lives of all who live here. Through her dedication she found ways to constantly inspire those around her to strive for higher achievement, better outcomes, even just more fun in their lives. Whether it was a pool party for the kids, or a major fundraiser for a cause near and dear to her generous heart, Debby gave it her all and made every moment a bit more special for all around her.

If a family benefits from the hospice program administered through the Salisbury Visiting Nurse Association, or a scholarship from the Housatonic Child Care Center, or any of the many services offered through Salisbury Family Services, rest assured that Debby had some part in creating these opportunities.

All of us can continue to glean some inspiration from Debby’s example, to do better, give more, think of ways to solve problems and find opportunities in life. Hers was indeed a life well lived.