Marian M. Mears, passionate nurse

Marian M. Mears, 100, passed away peacefully in her home Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024. She was born in Wilmington Nov. 18, 1923, daughter of the late Theodore Wade Mitchell and Lida Mae (Lingo) Mitchell.

Marian spent her early years in Lewes, where she graduated from Lewes High School in 1941. She pursued a career in nursing, graduating from Beebe School of Nursing in 1944 and dedicating many years to Beebe Hospital.

Marian married her late husband, Russell B. Mears, a Delaware State Police trooper, Feb. 7, 1948. Together, they took on the responsibility of running Camp Barnes, serving as camp directors, and dedicating time as the camp nurse from 1957-73, all while raising their two daughters. Following this chapter, the couple returned to Lewes, where they continued to build their life together.

Marian was known for her no-nonsense attitude and unwavering work ethic. Family and friends often remarked that her home was so clean “you could eat off her floors.” She had a passion for caring for her family and was fond of her dogs and cats, gardening, crabbing, fishing, and canning. Her zest for life kept her busy from the moment she woke, often long before dawn.

She is preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, a sister, her husband, and her son-in-law, Philip L. Wemlinger. Marian is survived by her daughters, Laura Mae Tunnel (Lewis) and Adele Mears Wemlinger; her step-grandson, Philip C. Wemlinger (Toni); and her step-great-grandson, Chaz Wemlinger.

In keeping with Marian’s wishes, there will be no services.

The family requests that donations be made to Delaware Hospice, delawarehospice.org/donate; or Brandywine Valley SPCA in Georgetown, bvspca.org/ways-to-give.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks and sincere appreciation to the wonderful ladies who provided 24-hour care and support to Marian for nearly five years. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. Though she may no longer be with us, her love will forever remain in our hearts. 

Visit Marian's Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.