Debra Irene DiCosimo

Debra Irene (Houghton) DiCosimo, 74, of Southington, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 5, 2026. She was the beloved wife of Richard A. DiCosimo for nearly 57 years.

Debra was born in New Britain, CT on November 9, 1951, to the late Richard and Nancy (Sherman) Houghton. Debra and Richard were married on October 24, 1969, residing in New Britain and Plantsville before settling in Southington by 1977. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised their family; creating a home filled with love.

Debbie earned an associate’s degree in legal administration and a paralegal certification from Tunxis Community College. While attending college, she worked as a hairdresser and as a secretary at CBT Bank in Hartford and Stanley Works in New Britain. After becoming a certified paralegal, she worked at Cummings & Lockwood in Hartford and later as a project manager for Phoenix and Travelers Insurance. Before retiring to enjoy her favorite activities, Debra was the receptionist at Paul Raymond Financial Services in Southington.

From a young age, Debbie loved to sing, especially at church and during concerts at Lake Compounce. As a teenager, she had the opportunity to sing backup for R&B bands performing in Connecticut. She took joy in her many talents, particularly sewing and making pocketbooks. Debbie embraced life and treasured gardening, playing Bingo, listening to country music, visiting casinos and, of course, shopping. She especially cherished traveling with Richard and the memories they made together. She also loved relaxing in the sunshine on Rhode Island beaches. Debbie was a member of the Southington Elks Lodge #1669 and Polish Falcons Nest #307, where she enjoyed playing cards with friends.

In addition to her husband Richard, Debbie is survived by her daughters, Fran Bumpus (Kenneth Souza) of MA, Kim Hair (Bill) of Bristol, Bridget DiCosimo (Harry Masterbone) of Southington, three grandchildren; Allison, Tiffany and David “DJ” and four great-grandchildren; Aubree, Ariah, Gabby and Brayden. She is also survived by her sister, Lisa Houghton of FL, her brother, Brett Houghton of MO, many nieces and nephews, whom she loved very much, and her fur babies; Niya, JJ, Milly, Lemmy and Mama Cat. In addition to her parents, Debbie was predeceased by two brothers, Craig and Daryl Houghton.

Debra’s family wishes to extend their heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the staff at HOCC, New Britain Campus, and the hospice team for the exceptional care, compassion and support they provided to Debbie and her family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Debra’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, (American Cancer Society/).

A funeral service will be celebrated at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2026 at the Plantsville Funeral Home, 975 S. Main St., Plantsville. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. For online condolences and directions, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com.