Deborah Lynn Negulescu

Debbie Negulescu passed away after a series of illnesses on April 16th, 2023 with her family by her side. She was 53 years old. Debbie Donaldson was born in San Gabriel California, and grew up in the Los Angeles area, Houston Texas, and Del Mar California. Debbie attended Torrey Pines High School and the University of San Diego, graduating in 1992 with a degree in Chemistry. Curious and smart, Debbie went on to graduate school at the University of California, Irvine and received a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology.

Debbie met her husband Paul at UCI. They were happily married for 27 years, living in Del Mar and raising three loving children. Debbie was a devoted wife, mother and daughter who gave her family unconditional love. Debbie was a force of nature with a strong and determined spirit that helped her survive childhood cancer and work through challenges in her life. She loved children and hosting “Camp Debbie” at home during summers in Del Mar and Lake Tahoe. Debbie gave time to her community and served on the Del Mar Elementary School PTA, Team Volunteers in Action, the Study Buddy Program, the Del Mar Education Foundation and the Del Mar Garden Club.

Although Debbie was taken too soon, all who knew her were enriched by her sharp wit, generosity, and authenticity. She lived simply, gave love, showed gratitude, and laughed a lot. She saw things in life clearly, and she helped others to do the same. She was lovely inside and out.

Debbie is survived by her husband Paul, children Paul Jr, Alex, and Natalie, mother Sherry Laidlaw, stepfather Victor Laidlaw, sister-in-law Leigh Donaldson, nieces Lucy and Sophie Donaldson and her loyal dogs, Cassie and Cotton.

A Service and reception will be held at St. James Catholic Church in Solana Beach on Wednesday, May 24th at noon. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice. If you would like to share a memory or photo of Debbie, please go to www.dignitymemorial.com