In Loving Memory of Colleen Patricia Devaney…

In Loving Memory of Colleen Devaney

Colleen Patricia Devaney was born in 1970 and lived in Northeast Philadelphia with her parents, Tom and Maureen. She was the loving sister of Tom and Jim, and loving aunt

of Breanna. Colleen was surrounded by the love and devotion of her grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, caregivers and friends.

She attended the NE Growth and Development Center, Torresdale School, Benjamin Rush Middle School, and Northeast High School. Colleen enjoyed participating in community activities with Supportive Behavioral Resources and SPIN.

Coleen was one of the first children to benefit from the efforts of parent advocates and participate in landmark initiatives such as Early Intervention (1972), Free Appropriate Education under Federal Law 94-142 (1976) , and community-based activities under the Urban Model Design. These programs, along with the Extended School Year Program, Transition Services from the school district, and community-based adult services, enabled Colleen to lead a more accessible and fulfilling life and actively engage in her community.

Colleen touched the lives of countless people. As the heart of her family and the center of her extended family and community, she taught all who knew her invaluable lessons about life, love, loyalty, and determination. Her beautiful smile, cherished collections of beads and pocketbooks, and her enthusiasm for birthdays and Christmas left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Colleen’s love for dancing and coffee, as well as her dedication to keeping things organized at home, were notable aspects of her personality. Her actions seemed to embody the motto, “A place for everything and everything in its place.” Those who had the privilege of knowing, loving, and working with Colleen found great joy in sharing her many adventures and stories. She was an inspiration to all who knew her.