Deborah Danis Estes

Deborah (Debbie) Danis Estes, 74, of Norwalk, CT, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2024, at Yale New Haven Hospital, after an inspiring eight-and-a-half-year battle with salivary duct carcinoma. Her final days were spent surrounded by her loving family, who came together to honor her remarkable strength, courage, and unwavering love. Debbie fought her illness with the same grace, humor, and determination that defined her life.

Born on July 19, 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Dr. Peter and Katherine Danis, Debbie was the youngest of ten children. She attended Villa Duchesne School, graduating in 1968, and began her college journey at the University of Colorado at Boulder. Later, she transferred to the University of Missouri, where she earned a degree in social work. Her adventurous spirit led her to become a flight attendant for Delta Airlines, based in Chicago. It was during this time that she met the love of her life, John (Jack) Richard Estes, Jr. They married in 1977, embarking on a wonderful life together.

Debbie and Jack spent time in Chicago before moving to Denver, Colorado, where they welcomed their four children: Tracey, Meghan, Jacqueline, and John III. Eventually, they settled in Wilton, Connecticut, where Debbie created a warm, loving home filled with laughter, joy, and cherished traditions. She devoted herself to raising her children with kindness, humor, and unconditional love, ensuring they always knew they were supported in every step of their journeys.

As her children grew and started families of their own, Debbie embraced her role as a mother-in-law to Steven Kaplan, William Drakos, Neil Vaidya, and Lauren Estes. She found great joy in being a grandmother to Olivia, Claire, Aiden, Sofia, Jack, Allison, Eliza, and Liam, showering them with toys and sugar at every opportunity. Debbie also embarked on a career in real estate, working 21 years for Realty 7 and 5 ½ years for Berkshire Hathaway in Wilton.

One of Debbie’s favorite places on Earth was Door County, Wisconsin, her “happy place.” She treasured her time there, whether exploring the scenic shoreline, enjoying family gatherings, or simply soaking in the peaceful beauty of the region. Door County was where she found joy, reflection, and renewal—a place that will forever remain intertwined with her spirit.

Debbie is survived by her beloved husband, Jack; her children and their spouses; and her eight grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings and their spouses Ann Danis (spouse of her late brother Peter), Margot Heininger (spouse of her late brother Dr. Richard Danis), Laura Wittenberg, David Danis (married to Nancy), Tim Danis (married to Jackie), and Tom Danis (married to Lucy). Debbie was preceded in death by her siblings Peter Danis, Dr. Richard Danis, Joanne Gormley (married to Edward), Mickey Fellows (married to Boyd), Fr. Jim Danis, and Warner Wittenberg (Laura’s late husband).

Throughout her life, Debbie was known for her tremendous level of care for those around her. Her family and friends will forever remember her as a loving wife, mother, sister, Nana, and friend, whose presence illuminated their lives.

A memorial service will be held in St. Louis, and a celebration of life will take place in Wisconsin and CT on future dates. The family will share those details as they become available.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Debbie’s memory to The Smilow Cancer Center at Yale New Haven Hospital, in recognition of the care she received. https://givetoynhh.org/areas-to-support/closer-to-free-fund/

Though she is no longer with us, Debbie’s love continues to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her. Our memories with her will endure for generations to come.

“The Lord replied, ‘My precious child, I love you and would never leave you. During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.'”