Obituary of Debbie O'Laney

Deborah Marie O’Laney, 62, River John, formerly of New Glasgow, passed away peacefully, Thursday, February 27, 2026, at home, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in New Glasgow, she was a daughter of the late Walter Patrick and Marie Gertrude (Mannette) DeYoung. Debbie treasured life's simple pleasures: sunrises, sunsets, and her gardens, but most of all she loved her family. A second mother to many, she sang karaoke late into the night with loved ones, knitted socks and hats for everyone at Christmas. She taught her daughter, Ashley, to preserve everything possible, making the best mustard pickles and homemade bread. Her grandchildren were her everything, together they made countless cookies with love.

Surviving are her common-law spouse of 41 years, John O’Laney; daughter, Ashley Marie O’Laney; sons, Jonathan (Catie Brown) and Justin (Phil); grandchildren, Madison, Breanna and Xena Morrison, David, Katrina and Ellie-May O’Laney, and Nathanele Hart; sisters, Donna (Vince) MacDonald, New Glasgow; Darlene DeYoung, New Glasgow; brothers, Walter, Stellarton; Laurie, Ontario; Willie (Bridget), New Glasgow; Wayne, Merigomish;

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Cathy MacPhail; brother, Bert; nephews, David DeYoung, Rodney and Jason MacPhail.

The family will receive visitors 10-10:50 a.m. Saturday, March 7 in P. & K. MacDonald Funeral Home Chapel, New Glasgow where funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. with Rev. Dr. Glen Matheson officiating.

Donations may be made in Deborah’s memory to her family to assist with expenses.