Elsie Warrington Gould, loved teaching, traveling
Elsie Warrington Gould, 92, a devoted educator, world traveler and passionate lover of culture, passed away peacefully Monday, April 7, 2025, at The Moorings at Lewes.
Born Dec. 20, 1932, at home, Elsie was raised on a farm in Rehoboth Beach, alongside her beloved siblings: brothers Francis C. “Dutch” Warrington and Earl D. “Jake” Warrington, and sister Laura Joyce “Kate” Hoge (née Warrington). She was the daughter of Francis Cannon Warrington Sr. and Sarah Hazzard Warrington, both born in the early years of the 20th century.
A proud graduate of Lewes High School in 1950, Elsie went on to earn her bachelor of arts in French from Vassar College, followed by a master of arts in French from Yale University. Her lifelong commitment to learning and language blossomed into a dedicated career in education.
She taught French and Spanish at Horace Greeley High School in Chappaqua, N.Y., from 1956 to 1958, before continuing her career at Somerville Middle School from 1958 to 1992. Even after her formal retirement, Elsie continued to share her passion for language, teaching ESL at Counterpoint Language and Atkins International Associates until 2007.
On April 4, 1958, Elsie married the love of her life, Dean E. Gould. Together, they shared a beautiful partnership rooted in curiosity, adventure and a love for the arts. The two traveled extensively throughout their lives, exploring the world and its many cultures.
After moving back to Lewes in 2011, Elsie remained an active and vibrant member of the community. She enjoyed international travel, cooking and participating in her beloved book club. Her deep appreciation for the arts was evident through her regular attendance at the opera, ballet and concerts by the Delaware Symphony, Mid-Atlantic Symphony, Coastal Concerts, and the I Hear Music program.
Elsie believed that “a life aimed at ease misses the target entirely.” She lived accordingly – engaging fully with the world around her and encouraging others to do the same. Her passion for culture was infectious, and she delighted in sharing it with friends and family. Even in her later years, she remained active, volunteering weekly at the local gift shop and continuing to find joy in everyday connections.
She is survived by a large and loving extended family, including many nieces and nephews who brought her great joy: Virginia Bishop of Stow, Ohio; Sara Lynn Goff of Laurel; Louise Short of Waverly, Fla.; Francis “Butch” Warrington of Lewes; Sonny Dale Warrington of Seaford; Andrew Jay Hoge of Victoria, British Columbia; and Richard Dale Hoge of Montreal, Canada; as well as numerous cousins and dear friends.
Her family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at The Moorings, who provided exceptional care and companionship to Elsie in her final years.
Elsie’s life was rich with purpose, intellect, kindness and joy. Our lives have been deeply enriched by her presence, and we are better for having known her.
Visit Elsie's Life Memorial at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
