Debra S. (Butler) Gardner, 65, (1952-2017) passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, at her home in Westfield on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 at the age of 65. She was born in Holden, MA to the late Arthur and Helen (Kuropotin) Butler and was a graduate of South Hadley High School 1970, Westfield State, Austin Peay State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary education in 1974, and received her Master’s Degree in education from Lesley College in 1991. Debra taught 3rd grade at Woodland Elementary School, and was a very important part of many children’s academic developments, stern but fair, positively remembered by all who she interacted with, she retired in 2008. She loved to travel around the country, visiting the majority of the fifty states at one point or another along with some international vacations. She had a special love for Kennebunkport, ME and the beaches. She loved horses and owned and rode them regularly until 2006. She loved reading and writing daily, loved walks in the park and spending time with her family and friends. She was an active part of her community, church, and donated regularly to a variety of local charities. Debra is survived by her two sons, Nick and Drew, husband Dick Loftus, and her four cherished grandchildren. A Memorial Service for Debra will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 10am in the Westfield Evangelical Free Church, 568 Southwick Rd. Westfield, MA 01085. In lieu of flowers donations in Deb’s name may be directed to the Heifer International, 1 World Ave. Little Rock, AR 72202 or to your favorite Cancer Awareness charity. www.firtionadams.com
