Virginia Dickerson Horsey, family matriarch
Virginia Dickerson Horsey, 92, passed away peacefully Sunday, April 26, 2020, at the home of her daughter, Barbara Huber, surrounded by her loving family. Virginia, the daughter of Granville and Florence Dickerson of Milton, grew up on a small farm with her parents and only sister, Edna D. Barker.
She was academically gifted and graduated from Lewes High School in 1944, one year ahead of her classmates. Upon graduation, Virginia began her working career at Farmer’s Bank in Lewes, where she met her future husband, Charles E. Marsh. She and Charles were married and lived in Rehoboth Beach where they were blessed with a lively and robust family of nine children.
From the moment her first child was born, Virginia’s focus was on her family, especially her children, then later on, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a loving, giving and caring mother who always put her children first, always before herself.
Although it was not easy to raise nine children, Virginia worked tirelessly day and night to make sure her children were well taken care of. Once all nine were in school, Virginia went back to work in the food service industry. There were many nights Virginia barely slept in order to keep things organized and have nine lunch boxes packed and ready in the morning before fixing breakfast and sending the children off to school. The family of nine continued to grow, adding any and all neighborhood children who came to play.
Virginia was an excellent cook who somehow managed to feed the family and any friends who wanted to stay for dinner. No one was turned away. “Ginny’s Kitchen” was always open. Virginia was always there for her children, with patience and endless love. She was proud of every accomplishment, whether academic or athletic, and always had plenty of hugs and kisses to go around.
Throughout her life she was kind and welcoming, and even after the family was grown and started their own lives, Virginia’s home was open for family gatherings.
Years after her divorce from Charles, Virginia met and married William (Bill) Horsey, who graciously embraced the constantly growing family. She finally had the opportunity to travel and experience new adventures. She was, however, always there at the birth of every grandchild. She so enjoyed holding and loving her “babies.”
Virginia had a full and happy life, and was loved by all who knew her. She will be remembered for her sweet disposition, a heart full of love, and the joy she gave others. She will be in the hearts of her family forever and always.
Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; her sister; her husband Bill; and her children, Jeanne Marsh Wright and William Lee Marsh. She is survived by her children: Charles E. Marsh Jr. (Leslie), Robert R. Marsh, Bonnie L. Cunningham, Barbara M. Huber (John), Wendy S. Marsh, Steven D. Marsh, and Jeffrey L. Marsh; 19 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.
Burial will be private due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Virginia’s name to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963, or the Beebe Medical Foundation, 902 Savannah Rd., Lewes, DE 19958.
Arrangements in the care of Short Funeral Services, Milton. Online condolences for the family are welcome at www.shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.
