Mary Anne Seiler, friend to all, mother to many
Mary Anne Gertrude Smith Seiler, or Mimi, as she was lovingly known, hung up her nurse's cap at 83 for the last time March 14, 2024, in Lewes. She was born sunny Aug. 4, 1940, in Philadelphia, Pa. She grew up in Pottstown, Pa., and later raised her family in Wilmington, Northampton, N.H., and Maplewood, N.J., before retiring to Rehoboth Beach. Mary Anne embarked on a life that would be marked by love, laughter and a touch of mischief.
Mary Anne charted a course through life that was navigated by compassion and guided by an unwavering commitment to others. She leaves behind a crew of family members who cherished her dearly, her brother, Frank Smith of Pottstown Pa.; her children, Michele (Tom), Mark (Marianne), Matthew (Signae) and Megan (Clayton); and her grandchildren, Mary Frances, Alexandra, Mamie, Ellie, Gus, Simone and CJ, who will continue to sail in her wake. Mary Anne’s husband, August "Gus" Seiler, awaits her in heaven with open arms.
Her educational journey began at Saint Aloysius in Pottstown, Pa., continued at Villa Maria Academy in Malvern, Pa., and culminated at Misericordia Nursing School in Philadelphia, where she prepared for her lifelong vocation in nursing. Mary Anne's professional path included many nursing positions over the years. Those with the greatest impact were Archmere Academy school nurse from 1977-81, dispensing advice along with the aspirin; then shifting her career to an addiction counselor. She worked at Fellowship Health and Psychotherapeutic Services in Sussex County from 1996-2013, as a certified addiction counselor, where she helped many clients achieve and maintain sobriety.
With her strong moral compass, Mary Anne found solace and community at Saint Mary Magdalene and Holy Child in Wilmington, and St. Edmond in Rehoboth Beach. Her devotion to her faith was evident in her daily life and the compassionate care she provided for all.
Mary Anne’s love for summers at the beach with her family was the cornerstone of her leisure time, as she relished the joys of being both a mother and grandmother.
A Catholic mass to honor her life will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, May 18, at St. Edmond Catholic Church, Rehoboth Beach. In memory of Mary Anne’s vibrant style, dress in joyful attire.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to a healthcare education fund being established in her name at Delaware Tech, Georgetown. This will continue her legacy of nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Fund details will be provided shortly.
As we bid farewell to Mary Anne, let us remember that in the garden of life, she was a perennial bloom of joy and kindness. Her legacy will continue to flourish in the hearts of those she touched. Sail on, Mimi, to your next great adventure, with a Fresca in your hand and Johnny Mathis playing in the background.
