RHEA "Debbie" BASKIN

Rhea “Debbie” Baskin, age 85 died peacefully Monday evening,  February 1, 2021 at her home in DeFuniak Springs, Florida.  Born in Broome County, NY on February 21, 1935, she was the daughter of Laura and Gus Veroutis.  She grew up in Whitney Point, NY and graduated from Whitney Point High School prior to obtaining an education in nursing. Rhea worked in many management positions during her career, including owning her own elder care nursing home and travel businesses before retiring.  Her retirement days consisted of property management, cruising, socializing, and visiting friends and family.  On her many cruises she was known for her gold shoes and being the self-appointed “ambassador of laughter”. Throughout her lifetime, Debbie was known for her outgoing spirit and sense of humor.  She was always eager to hear or share a joke or tale with anyone willing to listen.  She loved living in DeFuniak Springs often saying “it might not be heaven, but you can see it from here.”   Debbie is preceded in death by her parents, her beloved Aunt Ginger, Aunt Anna, Aunt Helen, Aunt Mary, Uncle Alfonzo, Uncle Joe, cousins, and many friends over the years.

Among survivors are her husband Stephen J. Baskin, DeFuniak Springs, her four children, Catherine Sloan of Newport, RI; Thomas Von Raub (Dana) of Celebration, FL; Helen Bevelacqua, Celebration, FL; and James C. Sloan of DeFuniak Springs, FL; two grandchildren, Crystal Appel (Dan) and Thomas Marcus Van Raub; one great-granddaughter, Chloe Rose Appel of DeFuniak Springs, FL; and her sister Katina Johnson (Harold) and nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Rhea “Debbie” Baskin’s memory  to St. Jude or the Salvation Army.  May she rest in peace.  Private services are being held.    Friends and family may go on line to view obituaries, offer condolences and sign the guest register at jerryevansfuneralhome.com