Obituary: Debra Marie Sagnella, 61, of East Haven

EAST HAVEN, CT — On her Instagram page, where more than 10,000 followed her to catch her pizza reviews and lost more, Debra Sagnella, known as Uber Deb, her family shared the sad news.

"Surrounded by family and friends, Debbie has passed on peacefully this afternoon. Thank you to all that have supported her and kept on believing in her. The doctors said that she fought as hard as someone could and made it further than most would have. Please share your memories of her. She will be missed, but never forgotten."

Around a month ago, Sagnella, 61, created a GoFundMeto help support her during lung cancer treatment, she wrote.

Uber Deb Here,

I've been diagnosed with lung cancer. I'm bummed about it, yes. At the same time, I'm ready to fight this thing. I want to invest all my efforts, time and mental health to beat this. I've had the best time of my life doing pizza reviews and cooking videos for everyone to see. I want to do more but I need to be as healthy as possible to share my world and adventures with you all.

The main problem is that I am going to have to do radiation and chemotherapy treatments. This is going to leave me in a situation where I will not be able to work, doing what I love - cooking. I am going to fall behind on bills and health expenses and I am looking for some temporary assistance so I can mentally focus on the task at hand - getting as healthy as I can.

Anything that can be given for my cause will be use 100% for life expenses so I can keep my Uber Deb mobile paid up getting to doctors, monthly bills such as rent, phone, food, and as well as any medical expenses. I appreciate all and everything you can do! I want to be able to 'roast my mouth' or even teach someone how to make a family recipe all over again!

Thank you
-Deb *I had my godson type for me because I stink at computer stuff

On June 24, with her family by her side, she passed away at Yale New Haven Hospital.

Obituary courtesy of East Haven Memorial Funeral Home:

Debra Marie Sagnella, 61, of East Haven, passed away peacefully on June 29th, 2023 surrounded by her family at Yale – New Haven Hospital.

Debbie was born in New Haven June 24th, 1962, to the late Donald and Carmel Florenzano Sagnella.

At her core, Debbie was a nurturer playing the role of mother, godmother, caregiver, chauffeur to friends in need and even chef. Becoming a public figure later in her life known as “Uber Deb”, more of the world got to see her infectious personality and overall kindness.

Debbie is survived by her sister Denise Sagnella, her niece Maria Dohna; best friends Wanda (Mark Rosa) Candela and Jen Gaetano; godsons Vinny (Toni) & Jerry (Jen) Esposito and their children Tyler, Jordan, and Daphne. Also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Debbie was predeceased by her parents and sister Donna Dohna.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit Wednesday July 5th, 2023 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM at East Haven Memorial Funeral Home, 425 Main Street. She will be laid to rest alongside her parents and sister at All Saints Cemetery.