Lois J. Nickerson and Janet M. Bendrick, devoted partners

Lois J. Nickerson died peacefully in her sleep Sunday, March 6, 2022, at her home at The Moorings in Lewes. She was born June 15, 1930, in Massachusetts. Her partner of 52 years, Janet M. Bendrick, died at The Moorings Monday, Jan. 3, 2022. Janet was born on Dec. 15, 1938. They are survived by a niece and her husband, Linda and Thomas Connelly; and a nephew, The Hon. Gary Nickerson and his wife Karen.

Ms. Nickerson graduated from Temple University’s Horticultural College. She spent her early career teaching in the Philadelphia area. Ms. Bendrick graduated from Temple Hospital School of Nursing. She spent her early career working as an administrator in Temple’s School of Nursing and Medical School.

Later, after she met Jan, Lois owned and operated a thriving landscape business, Heritage Landscaping, in Kennett Square, Pa., where they both worked, along with 12 employees. Eventually, a florist shop was added.

Starting in the mid-1990s, Lois and Jan lived in a house they had built in Pinewater Farms. They lived there for 14 years and were very active in the community. They made many friends. They were one of the first to move to a cottage at the newly finished Cadbury in Lewes which became The Moorings several years ago.

St. George’s Chapel was their spiritual home. Lois always lent a hand to any project that required hammer and nails or flower selection and arranging. For years, she decorated the church at Christmas and Easter. They both were active members of Episcopal Church Women. Jan was the treasurer for quite a while. They both were craft members and worked hours and hours in preparation for the annual All Saints/St. George’s Christmas Shop at the Convention Center in Rehoboth. After the St. George’s parish hall was built, Lois and Jan were instrumental in starting a Christmas fair there. It became an annual event.

To quote Richard Rohr, “God yearns for us to live wholeheartedly and fully as the unique, beautiful, beloved individuals God created us to be.” Lois and Jan fit this quote perfectly; they walked lightly on the earth, with love and respect for each other and those around them.

There will be a Celebration of Life at 11 a.m., Thursday, April 28, at St. George’s Chapel. 

In lieu of flowers, Lois and Jan requested contributions to either Brandywine Valley SPCA, Georgetown, or St. George’s Chapel, Harbeson.