In Loving Memory of Denise Mabie

Denise Mabie, born on April 13th, 1957, to Marjorie Donovan and Frank Dagostino, was a soul whose spirit radiated unwavering happiness. Her laughter brightened even the darkest days, and her resilience taught us the true meaning of courage.

From the very first day of her life, Denise faced challenges that might have overwhelmed many. Born having a seizure, she never let her diagnosis define her. Instead, she embraced life with a smile, laughter, and an incredible sense of hope. Despite the near weekly seizures.

No matter what life threw at her—whether it was a difficult day, a setback, a health issue, or an argument with a sibling—Denise met it with genuine happiness that lifted the spirits of everyone around her. She taught us that happiness is not the absence of struggle, but the choice to find good within it.

Denise’s laughter was a melody that filled every room she entered. It was contagious, often bubbling up at the smallest joke or the silliest moment. When seizures interrupted her days, she did not let frustration or fear define her response. Instead, she found reasons to smile, crack a joke, or gently reassure her loved ones that everything would be alright. There was wisdom in her joy—a peaceful acceptance that allowed her to navigate the unpredictable terrain of her life with remarkable grace.

Her resilience was not just in her ability to live with her condition, but in the way she never let it limit her dreams. Denise found the love of her life, someone who saw all the joy she brought to the world and appreciated everything she had to offer. They married in 1986, and her husband’s brother, a neurologist, was determined to help the woman his brother loved so dearly. He eventually found a combination of new medications that led to nearly 20 years of her being seizure-free. After her husband succumbed to cancer, Denise moved from their Connecticut apartment to Florida to be near her sister Gina.

Denise called Merrill Gardens home for the past four years. Our first visit to Merrill Gardens was nothing short of welcoming and inviting from staff and residents alike. We were happy that Denise would be somewhere she could live a full life while still maintaining some independence, and Merrill Gardens did not disappoint.

I would like to thank all the staff who make Merrill Gardens the wonderful place it is. Denise always had a new story about a game, an event, or the friends she made. On July 6th, 2025 during a phone call to her sister, Denise could not stop talking about the fun she had at the Merrill Gardens 4th of July party. Her excitement was evident even through the phone. Unknown to anyone at the time, this would be the last phone call Denise would make. As she left this world on July 7th, 2025. I know Denise would like to tell us all that it’s okay. She left this world the same way she lived in it—having fun and spreading joy, laughter, and love.

So now we say goodbye, Denise. Thank you for teaching us how to live happily, bravely, and fully. You will be missed beyond measure, but your legacy endures in every smile, every act of kindness, and every moment of joy. May you rest in peace.

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