Debra Costa

Debra Costa, age 68, of New Bedford, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, surrounded by the love of her family. She is now reunited with her beloved life companion, James Lammers, with whom she shared many years of love, partnership, and devotion.

Born on May 21, 1957, Debra was the beloved daughter of the late George Costa and Irene (Rapoza) Costa. A lifelong New Bedford resident, she held a deep and enduring love for her city and for Massachusetts. Debra rarely traveled, never wanting to be far from home, where her roots, memories, and sense of belonging were strongest.

Debra worked for many years as a bartender, where she was well known and genuinely cherished. Later in life, she followed her calling to care for others by working as a CNA. Eventually, chronic illness led to disability and forced her to step away from work, but it never diminished her compassion, strength, or sense of purpose.

At the age of six, Debra was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Growing up with diabetes in the 1960s, she lived much of her life managing a complex medical condition at a time when treatment and understanding were far more limited. Her perseverance and determination allowed her to live a long, full, and meaningful life, marked by resilience and courage.

Debra was fiercely stubborn, unafraid to go to battle for what she believed in, and always told it exactly as it was. Her honesty and strength defined her, and those who knew her respected her for it. In quieter moments, she enjoyed crocheting, listening to music, and playing card games.

Debra had a strong spiritual foundation and was a member of Saint Martin’s Episcopal Church. Her faith was a constant source of comfort throughout every medical battle she faced and remained with her in her final days, when she met the end of her life with peace and acceptance.

Above all else, Debra was devoted to her family. She was a proud and loving mother, grandmother, and aunt finding her greatest joy in time spent with her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Her home and heart were always open, and she cared for those around her with fierce loyalty and unconditional love.

Debra is survived by her children, Kelly Dacey and her husband Sean of New Bedford, and Kendra Kosta and her wife Erika of Dartmouth; her grandchildren, Michael, Shea, Ava, Walker, and Elliet; and her siblings, Dale McCleery, Linda Costa, Ray Costa, Patricia Verissimo, David Costa, and John Costa. She was also a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews, whom she loved and cared for as if they were her own children.

She was predeceased by her parents; life companion, James Lammers; and her sisters, Nancy Costa, Georgianna Nickerson, and Shirley Medeiros.

Debra’s family asks that she be remembered not with sadness, but with gratitude and strength, and that those who loved her continue to live life fully, boldly, and honestly—just as Debie did.

#DebieStrong

In accordance with Debra’s wishes, she will be cremated. A Celebration of Life honoring both Debra and her life companion, James Lammers, will be held at a later date, with details to be announced.

Private funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Perry Funeral Home, located at 111 Dartmouth Street, New Bedford, Massachusetts.