Deborah Ann Zarrelli

Deborah Ann Zarrelli (Playford)

Deborah “Deb” Zarrelli, of Guilderland passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026, at the age of 75.

Deb was born on February 12, 1951, in Albany, New York, and was raised in Guilderland. She remained deeply connected to her community throughout her life. A lifelong Catholic, her faith helped shape the compassion, generosity, and devotion that defined the way she lived.

Deb graduated from Guilderland High School before earning her degree from Maria College. She began her professional career with British American in Latham and later in her career handled all the administrative and office functions for the family business, ADS Masonry. While she valued her work, the roles she cherished most were wife, mother, and nana. Choosing to devote herself full-time to raising her family was one of the greatest joys of her life.

Deb was the beloved wife of Tony Zarrelli, with whom she shared a wonderful marriage of nearly 42 years. Together they raised a loving family and created a home where everyone felt welcome. She was also a devoted mother to her two sons and a proud grandmother to her four grandchildren who were the treasures of her life.

She was a naturally talented musician and could play the piano effortlessly to accompany the caroling at the Zarrelli Christmas Eve celebration. Always concerned with the well-being of family members and friends, Deb was quick to offer advice and research cures for whatever maladies were troubling those close to her – a practice that earned her the nickname “Doc” from her children!

A gifted gardener, wonderful cook and a consummate hostess, Deb took great pride in caring for and showcasing her home, which was a place of warmth, laughter, and unconditional love. She was happiest with a house or yard full of people. There were countless days and nights when the house on Schuster Road was filled with her children's friends, who always knew they were welcome. She greeted them with open arms, treating them as if they were her own.

For many years, Deb hosted an annual open house to celebrate Christmas, her favorite time of year. She took great pride in coming up with new themes which drove how she decorated each Holiday season. She also enjoyed planning or attending parties to commemorate life’s milestones for her family and friends, especially those involving the Abbruzzese-Berschwinger-Zarrelli (ABZ) crew.

Deb also gave back to her community by generously spending time in support of the young people and families she cared so deeply about. She volunteered to teach religious education classes and support CYO Basketball at Saint Madeleine Sophie. She filled many roles with the Pine Bush Little League, including a period as co-President. She was also part of a wonderful trio (Jo-Jo, Mo-Mo & Co-Co) that ran the Guilderland High School Basketball Booster Club and spent many years helping her dear friends plan and run the Capital District Apple Festival.

Those who knew Deb best will remember her caring heart, gentle spirit, unwavering love for family, and her remarkable ability to make everyone feel like they belonged. She celebrated life's simple moments, treasured lasting friendships, and found joy in helping others. Her love will continue to live on in the countless memories shared by her family and friends.

Deb is survived by her husband, Tony, sons and daughters in law, AJ Zarrelli (Holly), and Nick Zarrelli (Danielle), and four cherished grandchildren, Domenica, Gavin, Lorenzo, and Lydia. She is also survived by her brother, Greg Playford (June) and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

She was predeceased by her parents, Leonard and Annette Playford and her brother, Timothy Playford.

In keeping with Deb's wishes, a private service will be held with her immediate family. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in her honor to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society or any other organization that supports animal rights, a cause that was close to Deb's heart.