Lillian Jay Durbin's Obituary
Lillian “Lilly” Jay Vella Durbin of Garland, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025, at the age of 74 after a short illness. Born March 4, 1951, in Suffolk County on Long Island, New York, Lilly lived a life rooted in faith, family, and deep compassion for others.
She was the devoted mother of her two daughters, Tracey Vella and Misty Durbin Campos, and loving mother-in-law to Moses Campos. She was cherished as “Nannie” by her two granddaughters, Emory Vella and Olivia Campos, who were the greatest joy of her life. Lilly’s world was brightest when she was surrounded by her girls, and she poured her heart into every moment she spent with them. Coloring, trick-or- treating, watching movies… she treasured it all.
Lilly is survived by her siblings Joey Vella and Janice Ince, and siblings-in-law Steve Ince and Donna Vella. She was a proud and loving aunt to Brooke Bodziony (Chris), Allison Ince, Elliott Ince (Adriana), Jessica Vella (Jim White), Ryan Vella, Grace Vella, Nad Vella, Phillip Damron, and Stephanie Damron, and great-aunt to James and Jocelyn Bodziony, Elianna Ince and Noah Ince.
She will also be missed by the Durbin family in Colorado, her many cousins around the country, along with many dear friends and loved ones whose lives she touched with her kindness.
Known for her encouraging spirit, selflessness, humor, and generosity, Lilly had a way of making others feel supported and seen. She was proud of her Jewish and Sicilian family and heritage keeping those traditions close to her heart. Her girls learned from watching her and will keep those memories alive. Lilly also had a tremendous love for animals, especially her beloved dogs. They will miss her greatly.
Lilly’s faith was an important part of her life. She enjoyed attending church and Bible study every week, where her sense of humor and kind spirit were treasured by her church family.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Richard “Rick” Durbin; her mother, Miriam Vella; her father, Joseph Salvatore Vella; and her brother, Mark Vella.
A Celebration of Life will be held in December at Lifewell Church in Garland. Details will be shared with family and friends.
Lilly’s legacy of love, strength, and generosity will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her. May her memory forever be a blessing.
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