Debbie Pappas

June 19, 1960 - June 7, 2025

Debbie Lee Souza-Pappas was born on June 19, 1960, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Armando and Margaret Souza.

Debbie was raised in SLC; she loved the variety of sushi and coffee shops it had to offer. After graduating from West High School, she pursued a career as a Medical Laboratory Technologist. Her work in several labs in the SLC area was highly regarded, and she was known for her dedication and attention to detail.

Debbie inherited her love of animals from her grandmother, who was always reading books about animals and teaching her about compassion for life, no matter how small.

In 1994, Debbie moved to Price, where she discovered her true passion and life's calling. After moving to Price, Debbie opened her store, 'Feathered Friends.' This store was not just a business but a stepping stone towards her ultimate goal of wildlife rehabilitation. Debbie's knowledge of birds was extensive; the community soon learned that if you had a question or needed help with your feathered friends, Debbie was the one to trust. It was during this time that the community lovingly started calling her 'The Bird Lady.'

Debbie eventually closed her store and made a profound transition into her life's calling-Wildlife Rehabilitation. Her motivation was palpable as she seized every opportunity to learn and grow, all in the service of those who could not help themselves. She diligently worked towards earning her Federal and State Permits and setting up her facilities, all while caring for wildlife as a sub-permittee. Over the years, Debbie transitioned from student to sought-after teacher, and she was happy to share her knowledge and experience with others.

Debbie's love for all animals, whether domestic or wildlife, was profound. She believed that every creature deserved a chance to live the best life possible, and she was willing to go to any lengths to make that a reality.

Debbie and her volunteers often found themselves in strange and messy situations, all while trying to rescue an animal in need. These situations ranged from climbing trees, fences, or other objects to rescue an injured, sick, or orphaned animal to wading through muddy waters or deep snow to save a trapped animal. Usually, these messy or strange rescues were followed by Debbie saying, 'Well, that was interesting.'

It was common for Debbie to call one of us and say, 'Let's go, you need to drive.' Debbie couldn't drive at night. These nighttime trips were often filled with laughter (from jokes that we cannot repeat) to the point of needing to stop the car, and at times, posed hazards for the driver. Debbie liked to read on her phone while one of her volunteers drove. The light coming from her phone was distracting, and at least once, a jacket was tossed over her so the volunteer could drive without distractions.

Unfortunately, not every animal's story would end with a perfect happy ever after. There were times when Debbie and her volunteers would have to give an animal a compassionate goodbye, offering as much comfort as possible, administering medications to ease the animal's pain as it passed, or allowing the animal to be at peace in a warm, safe place. Debbie would give as much comfort as a human could provide a wild animal at the end of its life.

Debbie mourned the loss of each life, from the majestic egeals to the days-old nestling. The animals that Debbie helped save and released back into the wild were celebrated, and each one, regardless of its species size, was a life celebrated.

Unfortunately, some animals were unable to be released; however, they were loved and cared for at Second Chance Wildlife until a perfect forever placement was found. Debbie was meticulous in finding the proper placement for each animal, considering factors such as the animal's species, personality, and needs, as well as the environment and care provided by the potential placement. She placed many animals in various settings, from educational facilities to sanctuaries, to educate others

about their species and to provide them with a safe and nurturing environment in which to live out their lives.

Debbie was relentless when advocating for all animals. This was her life's all, and she was a tremendous gift to all animals. Over the years, Debbie has received numerous awards and letters of appreciation for her dedication to wildlife conservation. There was also a documentary filmed showcasing Second Chance Wildlife.

Debbie was a no-nonsense kind of person; she didn't hold back her words when defending animals or those she cherished in her life. Debbie, in a somewhat nonsensical way, worked both ways; she would protect what and who was important to her and, in the next breath, tell those who mattered to her to "shape up." Those who were on the receiving end of her words knew it was just Debbies way.

Friends were important to her; she had many friendships that spanned decades. Debbie never forgot a birthday or any other important milestone in her friends' and loved ones' lives. Debbie was also there during the good times and some of the darkest times in her friends' lives. The good times and the bad mattered to Debbie; her friends were also her family.

Debbie had two siblings: sister Ranae Johnson and half-brother Scott Hargett, both of whom live in Utah. Debbie had several nieces and nephews.

Debbie was married three times in her life and had two children: her son, Austin Sousa Healey, and her stepdaughter, Mary Pappas Scoville.

Over the years, her family expanded to include many loved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Debbie was survived by her Mother, Margaret; sister, Ranae; stepbrother, Scott; son, Austin; stepdaughter, Mary; extended family; and a very special end-of-life partner, Dewey Giddings, along with many friends, surviving wildlife, feathered friends and fur babies.

Preceded in death by her Father, Armando; her second and adored Second Mom, Eve Daniels; and her very dear friend, Twila Nelson Martak.

Debbie was larger than life; she was quick with a smile, a laugh, or sharp words. Debbie lived her life on her terms and left this world the same way... Debbie, you will be deeply missed. Those who knew you cherished all that you have taught us, the love you shared with us.

A celebration of life honoring Debbie will be announced at a later date. Please check Second Chance Wildlife Rehabilitation Website or Facebook page for any upcoming announcements.

Arrangements are in the trusted care of Fausett Mortuaries where family and friends are always welcome and may share memories online at www.fausettmortuary.com.