On March 15, 2024, Deborah Kathryn “Kathy” Vassallo, 69, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Deale, MD, with her family by her side. After a 2.5-year battle with cancer, Kathy’s strength and grace throughout her illness were an inspiration to all who knew her. Born to Richard and Frances Mayer on August 11,1954 in Camp Springs Maryland, Kathy attended St. Philip the Apostle School and graduated from Crossland High School in 1972. Marrying the love of her life, with whom she shared over 50 beautiful years, they settled in Dunkirk, MD. Their union was blessed with two wonderful daughters, and together they shared the importance of the Catholic faith.
Kathy’s professional life was deeply rooted in Catholic education, having worked for 20 years at St. Mary of the Assumption School and later 9 years at St. Pius X Regional School, where she would say the highlight of her career was working with both of her daughters. Kathy’s warm smile greeted countless families, sharing with them the importance of a faith-based education. It was within these communities that she formed enduring friendships, which evolved into family.
Kathy loved the beach, boat rides, shopping, reading, cruises with family and friends, and of course a good chocolate martini. Her compassionate spirit extended into her role as a founding member of the St. Mary of the Assumption Ladies Auxiliary, where she relished in planning events and volunteering to support those in need.
Kathy leaves behind her beloved husband, John; daughters, Vicky (Rich) McCann and Stephanie (Brian) Heller; and her grandson, Stewart. She is also survived by her sister, Theresa Fanone, and was preceded in death by her brother, Stephen Mayer, along with many nieces, nephews, and friends who were blessed to know her.
A Visitation for family and friends will be held Wednesday March 20, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, followed by a Mass to celebrate Kathy’s life at 11:00 A.M. A Private Interment will take place at a later date.
Kathy loved to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. The family asks in her memory to wear a bit of green and make this a Mass of celebration of her life.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to support tuition assistance within The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington Schools. Donations can be made payable to the “Catholic Education Foundation” and mailed to the Catholic Education Foundation, C/O Office of Development, P.O. Box 29260, Washington, DC 20017-0260, in memory of Kathy Vassallo.
Cathy Crowell
March 20 – Obituary: Deborah Kathryn “Kathy” Vassallo
John, Stephanie and Vicky,
So sorry for your loss, Kathy was an amazing young woman. She helped people so much. We are sending prayers and hugs to every one there. We know she will truly be missed by every one that knew her. We loved her too. And we love all of you also. May she always Rest in the arms of Our Lord. God Bless, and our thoughts are with you over this sad time in your life.
Gene & Cathy Crowell
Corinne Gamble
March 19 – Obituary: Deborah Kathryn “Kathy” Vassallo
My prayers go out to Kathy’s family, especially Stephanie and Vicky. I know that this is a very difficult time, but your mom is now in Jesus’s arms and that is a very comforting thought.
Sister Myra Gilbart, IHM
March 19 – Obituary: Deborah Kathryn “Kathy” Vassallo
Kathy was a joy to work with. She had a beautiful and welcoming smile. It was a joy to see her every day. May she rest in the arms of Jesus.
Sister Myra Gilbart, IHM
March 19 – Obituary: Deborah Kathryn “Kathy” Vassallo
Kathy had a beautiful smile and a joyful spirit. I enjoyed her presence and her help when I needed it. I am so happy that I worked with her at St Mary’s. My prayers are with y0u, John, Vicki and Stephanie. Kathy will be with you in your heart.
Love, Sister Myra, IHM.
Patti Walter Edgar
March 19 – Obituary: Deborah Kathryn “Kathy” Vassallo
Dear John. So sorry on your loss to sweet Debbie. Prayers if comfort for you and your family.
Judy Ward
March 18 – Obituary: Deborah Kathryn “Kathy” Vassallo
John –
John and I met Kathy shortly after you both moved into the neighborhood. Always smiling, she personified the heart and soul of Rest Haven and we were lucky to have her as not only a neighbor but a friend. If her fight was anything like John’s, the pain of her passing is somewhat diminished by the knowledge she fought the good fight and can now truly rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Michael & Val Davenport
March 18 – Obituary: Deborah Kathryn “Kathy” Vassallo
Lady Kathy,
Smiling, hugging, laughing with utmost sincerity. Will never forget your kind manner. You were what we are supposed to be, loving and serving God, and you always will be in our hearts.
Denise
March 16 – Obituary: Deborah Kathryn “Kathy” Vassallo
I only met Kathy a couple times for brief moments and she was so very gracious to me in our short conversations. You need only meet her two daughters to see what a special person she was!! Prayers are with you all as you grieve her loss! So thankful she is with Jesus and her suffering is done! May Gods peace and grace shine on your family during this difficult time!!
Mother Angelus (Angie Crowell)
March 16 – Obituary: Deborah Kathryn “Kathy” Vassallo
Johnny, Stephanie and Vicky,
I just heard the news about Kathy. I am so sorry to hear this news. I did not even know she was sick. I am so sorry for her loss. But, I know that as she lived, she died. And that she was a beautiful spouse, mother and servant of God. May God bless you all in this time of loss and give you the hope to see her in the future resurrection.
I wish I could come to the funeral but I have been waiting for over 4 weeks for my passport to get renewed. I cannot leave Canada. Please know of my prayers.
I love you all and have such fond memories of Kathy and the family.
United in the Sacred Heart!
Wencil & Trudy Stanek
March 16 – Obituary: Deborah Kathryn “Kathy” Vassallo
Loved Kathy’s smile. You never saw her frown. She will be missed by all. We will keep the rest of the family in our prayers.
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