It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Debra Dion-Faust, on Thursday 7 August 2025. She profoundly influenced many in the theatre community, and has been responsible for helping Theatre Company of Saugus thrive over the past several years in her role as the organization and facility manager of the TCS home base at the American Legion Post 210 in Saugus.
Deb served as an English and theatre teacher at Ipswich High School from 1983 until her retirement in 2012. Before that, she taught English, theatre, and served as a drama advisor at Saugus High School from 1979 to 1981 (TCS member John Macero was a student). Deb was an accomplished writer and contributed articles to professional journals and was actively involved in organizations such as the Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild and the National Council of Teachers of English. She also held leadership roles in the High School Drama Guild, including secretary, treasurer, vice president, and president.
Debra graduated from Moravian College, where she earned a B.A. in music and French in 1973. She later completed her education at Boston University with an M.F.A. in theatre education in 1978. Throughout her career, she was certified to teach speech, theatre, English, music, and French.
In 2019, Debra Dion-Faust was honored as the Saugus Woman of the Year for her outstanding contributions to the community.
Deb’s relationship with TCS was one of support and excitement for our shows and youth programs. She was pivotal in helping us thrive year after year. On top of advocating for us, she also loved coming and watching our shows. Knitting as she watched, and offering little critiques as any theater teacher would. She will be truly missed. TCS will be discussing how to honor her memory.
The visitation and funeral are on Monday 11 August 2025. Click here for obituary information.
Theatre Company of Saugus 