Obituary of Debra Marano Hefferan

Debra M. Hefferan, 72, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, January 24, 2026.

Debbie was born in Aurora, CO, to Angela (nee LoBosco) and John Marano. She is survived by her loving husband, Dr. James Hefferan of Chatham, NJ, her adoring children, Melissa, Laura, and Christina, and son-in-law, Zachary Porcello. She was predeceased by her loving parents, Angela and John. 

Debbie spent her youth in Jersey City, her teens in Scotch Plains and Watchung, and started her family in New Providence. She ultimately settled in Chatham, where she lived for the past 28 years.  

 She was a graduate of Seton Hall University, Class of 1975. Debbie devoted her life to her family, building a warm and loving home where she raised her three daughters. She later resumed her career, working as an educator in the Millburn Township School District for 15 years.  

Debbie loved celebrating life, had a deep Christian faith, and lived with endless generosity. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her, but most deeply by her husband, daughters, and son-in-law, for whom she was an unending source of strength, vitality, and boundless love.

Family and friends are welcome to gather on Friday, January 30, 2026 from 4-8pm at Burroughs, Kohr & Dangler Funeral Home, 106 Main Street, Madison, NJ. (A steady flow throughout the Funeral Home will ensure all guests time to pay their respects.) A Funeral Mass for Debbie will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 9:30am at Corpus Christi Church, 234 Southern Blvd., Chatham, NJ. Debbie will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery, Westfield, NJ. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Reeves Neuro ICU at Overlook Hospital in her honor https://overlookfoundation.org/donate-now/.