The family of Debbie Kennedy, an Auburn native, is seeking community support to bring her back to New York for burial after she tragically lost her life during Hurricane Milton. Debbie’s niece-in-law, Peyton Kennedy, has organized a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the costs of returning her to Auburn, where she will be laid to rest beside her late husband, Jeff Kennedy.
In a message shared on the fundraising page, Peyton described the immense grief and financial burden the family is facing. Debbie, remembered as the heart of her family, was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend who always put others first. She recently moved to Florida, but despite this new chapter in her life, she had always made it clear that she wanted to return home to Auburn if anything were to happen to her.
“We are heartbroken and devastated by her passing,” the post reads. “As we mourn, we are also confronted with the overwhelming expenses of funeral costs, medical bills, and the difficult journey ahead for her children.”
Debbie was caught in the devastating fury of Hurricane Milton, and despite efforts to protect her, the storm tragically claimed her life. Her children and grandchildren are now facing an unimaginable loss, and the family is working tirelessly to bring her home to honor her final wish of being laid to rest with her husband in Auburn.
Jessica Kennedy, one of Debbie’s children, is handling the arrangements to return her mother to New York. Thanks to an outpouring of love and generosity, the family has reached nearly half of their fundraising goal. Peyton emphasized how important the support has been during this difficult time, writing, “Your support means the world to us. Any contribution, no matter the size, will help ease the financial strain and allow us to focus on honoring Debbie’s memory.”
The GoFundMe page remains open as the family continues to work toward their goal of bringing Debbie Kennedy, an Auburn native, back to the place she called home for her final rest.
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