Debra (Bennett) Mal passed away on December 15 at the age of 61, surrounded by her loving siblings. She was a lifelong Rhode Islander who chose to live close to her family. For the past two decades, she lived in Pawtucket where she resided upon her death.
Debbie is survived by her husband, Dave, who was the love of her life. Throughout their 22-year marriage, Debbie and Dave were inseparable – even when life made it challenging for them to physically be together. Debbie embraced Dave’s Jewish heritage, inviting her family to learn and celebrate new customs with them – especially around the holidays. They enjoyed dining out together – you could often find them at Tiggers Two during breakfast or Micheletti’s at dinnertime. They liked taking long drives to the casino for a night of entertainment, browsing the shops, catching a show, or trying their luck on the slots.
Debbie was a compassionate woman who cared deeply for others. She often took on the role of caretaker for ailing family members attending to their medical needs, offering words of comfort, or just being good company. Debbie liked spending time with her nieces, spoiling them with the latest toys, new clothes, or trips to McDonalds.
Debbie was an animal lover and had trouble turning away those in search of food. She could always be found caring for one of her many cats, including her favorite, Little Donna.
Debbie enjoyed working in retail and telling stories about her daily adventures on the job. Before her illness, she worked as an associate at Savers for eight years. She liked working alongside her colleagues who she considered friends.
Debbie is survived by her husband David Mal; siblings Gail Wilding, David Bennett, Richard Bennett, Kevin Bennett, Jodi Seth, Kelly Lavoie, and Pamela Lopes; step children Alisha Mal, Alan Mal, and Marc Mal; grandchildren Joshua, Alexander, Jarred, Jonathan, William, Nicole, Katelynn; great granddaughter Bailey; and god daughter Camerin Lavoie.
A celebration of Debbie’s life will be held at Keefe Funeral Home in Lincoln, RI, on Tuesday, December 28 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Burial is private. Visit