Beverly Jean “Bev” McFarland
October 3, 1952 - April 13, 2026
Beverly Jean “Bev” McFarland, age 73, of Newark, DE, passed away on Monday, April 13, 2026.
Born in Pittsburgh, PA on October 3, 1952, she was a daughter of the late George and Florence (Zierenberg) Marquis. Bev earned her Bachelor degree in Education from Grove City College in 1974. She made her career as a music teacher at schools in nine different states for over 30 years, and as a music director at White Clay Creek Presbyterian Church.
Bev was a dedicated member of White Clay Creek Presbyterian Church. In her spare time, she loved music. Above all, Bev treasured the time she spent with her grandchildren.
Bev is survived by her loving husband, Dennis Warren McFarland; children, Tom McFarland (Kit) and Kate Fulton (Eric); siblings, Bill and Judi; and her beloved grandchildren, Robin, Becca, Eva, and Isaac.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 6 pm until 8 pm on Friday, April 17, 2026, at White Clay Creek Presbyterian Church, 15 Polly Drummond Hill Road, Newark, DE. A second visitation will be held from 9:30 am until 10:30 am on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the church, where a celebration of life will begin at 10:30 am. Inurnment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bev’s memory to Foundation Fighting Blindness, P.O. Box 45740, Baltimore, MD, 21297-5740 or online by clicking here.
Amy Mertz Brown
So sorry to hear about your mother’s passing, Kate. I’m holding you and your family close in my thoughts during this tough time.
Donna Phelps
Dear Dennis, our deepest sympathy to you and your family. We so enjoyed Bev’s kind heart and sparkling personality. May she rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Donna & Jack Phelps
Nancy Roberts
I am so sorry to hear of Bev’s passing. I have fond memories of her and my time at White Clay! You and your family are in my thought and prayers. May God give you peace and comfort.
Jim & Ginny Teitt
Dennis & family , despite the years apart, please know that time can not dampen the friendship and fellowship we shared at White Clay PC. We are saddened to hear this news ; Bev was so full of life and joy in everything she did, it seemed to us, and others would always benefit simply from being in her presence. Please know that we are praying for you all that His comfort and peace will cover the gaps left behind in coming days. All our love, Ginny & Jim.
Marge Gerry
Bev was one of the best teachers I have worked with! It was just a short time in Chicago in the 1970s, just before their son was born. We tried to travel together the past few years, but it didn’t work. I was tearful when I read this announcement… I was so hoping to have another time together..
Dennis, I am so sorry!
Debra Kupper
My heartfelt sympathy to you, Dennis and your family. Bev was a warm and delightful person and we bonded over her delight in her grandchildren. I know she created endless memories that they will cherish.
Kenneth Murphy
I’m so sorry to hear about Beverly’s passing. My heartfelt condolences go out to family during this difficult time. Please know that Beverly and family are in my thoughts, and I hope you all can find comfort in the love and support of those around you. Beverly will be remembered with warmth and respect.
Michele and Gregg Wilson
Wow, Dennis we are so sorry. Bev was such a nice vivacious person who loved and was loved. Her life was taken way too soon. Please know we are thinking of you and just feel awful about this untimely death.
David Cook
Kate, I’m so very sorry to hear of your loss. Praying that God can give you and your family peace that passes understanding at this time.
MaureenMoynihan
I am saddened for your loss, and so young. May you always cherish the memories of all the fun times you shared.
Cathy Langlois
Kate and family. No words can ease sorrow from the passing of a family member but know that I am thinking of you and praying that you find comfort in your memories.
Best,
Cathy
Lisa & John Wolter
Such sad news about Bev’s passing. She was a wonderful family matriarch bringing people together and enjoying her grandchildren. She was also a woman of faith and is now at peace. Dennis you have my condolences.
Robert Wippenbeck
Saddened to hear of Bev’s passing
But we know that she is in a better place without suffering. Blessings to you and your family.
Chuck Camp
Dennis, My heart aches for you and your family. Bev was such a blessing to so many people and she did so in so many ways. She was the one who saved me from the depths of my grief when Sandy passed away 40 years ago. She was the one who turned me on to Amy Grant and songs of faith and hope that I still listen to today.
Dennis, know that I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Chuck
Kathy and Glen Woods
I am so sorry for your loss. We shared so many fond memories with Bev. She will be sorely missed.
Deb Martin Schueneman
Bev was one of those people you just immediately liked ! Her joy and smile brightened this world. She let her light so shine . Prayers for peace and comfort to the family.
Mary Ann Marinelli
Dear Dennis and Family,
I was saddened to hear of Beverly’s passing. I had the privilege of working with her at Marbrook Elem. School. She was a wonderful teacher and a delight to work with. a delight to work with. My thoughts and prayers are with you now.
Sincerely,
Mary Ann Marinelli
Carole and Mackenzie McQuown
Ms Bev was an amazing children’s choir teacher. She encouraged me to use my voice. She was the biggest music influence in my entire childhood. Myself and my mommom will be praying for you all and her
Mary Jane Bock
My first memory of Bev was when I 1st moved to DE and bought my granddaughter to the sanctuary to join the Christmas Pagent …we were early and as we came up the stairs I heard the most beautiful voice singing the praises of God…I honestly thought it was an angel!!! Bev truly instilled a love of music in Veronica who now plays drums, the guitar & is in the school choir…I will always be thankful for Bev’s influence. Dennis know you are surrounded by love….and Veronica sends you a hug…
Louise Lanahan
Bev was my daughter’s music teacher at Highlands Elementary School, and she was a memorable, outstanding teacher and wonderful person. She cared so deeply for all of the children in her charge. My condolences to all who loved her.
Chris Gerding
My sincerest condolences and sympathy to Dennis and family. I knew Bev as a fellow elementary school student at Hebron School; she was a standout and well liked all through those early years.
Linda Moule
Dennis, Bill, Judi and families:
We were so sorry to hear the news about cousin Bev! We remember her as being smart, funny, kind, and had a beautiful spirit! Our hearts are saddened for you all. No doubt, she’s singing joyfully along with the choir of angels. She will be missed!
Love,
Linda, Patty & Barbara
Barbara Pitell
Dear Dennis,
While I know Linda posted a message from the three Zierenberg sisters, I felt compelled to post my own. First, Mom told me I was close to being named Beverly. I would’ve been Beverly Jean #2. But, I ended up being Barbara Jean. Second, I am grateful to have been a part of yours and Bev’s big day. I was a part of the day you gave your vows to each other and began your long lifetime of love with each other. It warms my heart that the two of you were a stellar example of how marriage should be…love, respect, and happiness! I smile knowing that Bev found the love of her life!!! I hope the memories you shared with your wife bring you peace and comfort going forward.
Love,
Your flower girl, Barbara Jean