Debra L. Gay

Debra L. Gay, of Middleport, NY, formerly of Medina, passed away unexpectedly yet peacefully at home in her sleep on Friday, December 5, 2025.

Born June 21, 1961, in Medina, she was a daughter of the late Amerigo “Pepper” and Dorotha “Nadine” (Mefford) Santillo. Debi was a graduate of Medina High School, Class of 1979. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from the Rochester Institute of Technology in 1982.

Debi had an extensive career as a paralegal for the law offices of Kenneth Gallant and, most recently, for Lacy Katzen LLP in Rochester. She had retired just five weeks prior to her passing and was looking forward to more time with the people she loved most.

On July 15, 2000, she married Jeffrey A. Gay, blending two families that completed her life and brought her laughter, love, and her dream homes. They successfully remodeled two homes together, the second becoming their “forever” home.

Debi was an avid Buffalo Bills fan and loved attending games. She also enjoyed warm-weather vacations, playing card games and being the quiet life of the party. She found joy in birdwatching and tending to her many birdhouses and flower gardens. Debi was a kind woman, and her loss will be deeply felt by her family and friends, softened only by the loving legacy she leaves behind.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her mother-in-law, Marcy Lou Gay.

Left to cherish her memory and carry on the legacy of love, dedication and kindness are her beloved husband of 25 years, Jeffrey Gay; daughter, Kayleigh Ferra; son, Spencer Ferra; granddaughter, Brae Lynne DiLorenzo; stepson, Tyler Gay; sister, Diana Hogan; brother, Michael (Sandy) Hogan; cousin, Tina (Scott) Oosterling; nephew, Jeremy Hogan; father-in-law, Allan (Susan) Gay; sister-in-law, Kathryn (Danny) Lacefield; and several nieces and nephews.

There will be no prior calling hours. Debi’s memorial service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 11:00am at the First Presbyterian Church, 522 Main St., Medina. Interment will be in Boxwood Cemetery at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.