The officers and members of the fire company are joining our ladies auxiliary in mourning the passing of Life Member/Past President Mary Ellen DeBenedictis. Past President DeBenedictis served in the auxiliary for many years and was a Life Member. Past President DeBenedictis lead the auxiliary as President in 1979 and again from 2018 to 2022. She was named Auxiliary Member of the Year in 2014. Ms. DeBenedictis was a lifelong resident of Clayton and retired from civil service at Dover Air Force Base. She was a member of the St. Polycarps Catholic Church and served several years aas a council women for the Town of Clayton. Arrangements will be post once they are completed. We ask that you please keep Ms. DeBenedictis and her family in your thoughts and prayers. Below is the obituary for Ms. DeBenedictis.
Mary Ellen DeBenedictis, a beacon of creativity and faith, passed away peacefully due to natural causes on March 18, 2026, in Dover, DE. Born on June 27, 1946, in Clayton, DE, Mary Ellen's life was a testament to the power of intelligence and the beauty of a loving family.
Mary Ellen graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1964 with a vibrant spirit and a mind keen on learning. She channeled her organizational talents and warm personality into her career as an Administrative Secretary at the Dover Air Force Base, where she was not only respected for her professional abilities but also cherished for her kindness and supportive nature.
Her dedication and pride in her Clayton community was unmistakable, particularly her involvement with the Clayton Fire House. Mary Ellen's passion for ceramics was more than a hobby; it was a form of expression that showcased her creative soul. The pieces she crafted were reflections of her life—unique, thoughtful, and filled with love.
Mary Ellen survived by her three children, oldest daughter, Anna Watson, Tony Watson Sr, Tony Watson Jr., Michaela Watson and Madison Watson. Son, George DeBenedictis, Tami Lunsford, Carter Lunsford, and Parker Lunsford and her youngest daughter, Jennifer DeBenedictis-Bayne, Sierra DeBenedictis-Bayne, Andrew DeBenedictis=Bayne and Isabella DeBenedictis-Bayne along with many friends and family that have supported her through the years.
Mary Ellen's legacy is one of love, artistry, and devotion. She was a woman who saw the beauty in the everyday, who found joy in the simple act of giving, and who believed in the power of faith to move mountains. Her memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known her and her influence will live on in the lives of her family and the many individuals she touched throughout her remarkable life.
As the sun sets on the life of Mary Ellen DeBenedictis, we remember a life well-lived, a heart filled with love, and a spirit that will forever light the way for those she has left behind. Her presence will be deeply missed.
A graveside service will be on Friday, March 27, 2026 at 1 PM at Holy Cross Cemetery in Dover, Delaware.
A memorial luncheon will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 12 PM in the Clayton Fire Hall.
Views: 3
Nature: Electrical Hazard
Location: Townsend
Address:
246 Mckays Corner Rd
City: , DE 00000
Nature: Electrical Hazard
Location: Townsend
Address:
246 Mckays Corner Rd
City: , DE 00000
Nature: Electrical Hazard
Location: Townsend
Address:
246 Mckays Corner Rd
City: , DE 00000