Deborah E. Ricci

Deborah E. Ricci, of Waterport, NY beloved wife, daughter, mother and grandmother, was called to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, January 23, 2025 at the age of 56.

Born June 11, 1968 in Rochester, NY she was the daughter of Joyce (Chrysler) Milleville and John Milleville. A person who possessed deep empathy and compassion, Deborah had an accomplished career in mental health and addiction counseling. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University at Buffalo and went on to earn her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from SUNY Brockport. Deborah worked as a Licensed Addiction Counselor for GCASA in Albion for many years, then as a Mental Health Counselor at BestSelf in Buffalo. Shortly thereafter, she accomplished her professional dream by opening her own practice here in Medina, NY as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. She married the love of her life, Peter Ricci on April 7, 1999 and lived in Orleans County since 2000. Deborah was a person of strong faith in Jesus Christ. She loved being with her family, taking long car rides, and spending time outdoors. As an animal lover, she loved taking her children and grandchildren to the zoo. Deborah was a life-long learner and an avid reader.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by her husband, Peter Ricci; children, Christopher (Melissa) Milleville, Derek (Elliana) Milleville, Brianna (Tyler) Herman and Evan (Ashley) Milleville; cherished grandchildren, Wyatt, Lilly, James, Benjamin, Mia, Annaliese and Clara; several aunts, uncles and cousins; and special friend, Julie Dennis.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, The Vine WNY Church, Carlton Vol. Fire Co., and St. James Lutheran Church for all of their loving care and kindness during this difficult time.

An hour of visitation will be held, followed by a memorial service on Saturday, Feb. 1 from 12-1PM, service at 1PM at The Vine WNY Church, 11031 Maple Ridge Rd., Medina, NY 14103. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Memorial donations may be made to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center at www.roswellpark.org or to the Buffalo City Mission at www.buffalocitymission.org.