Martha DeChene

Born: 8/15/1950
Died: 7/12/2013

Martha DeChene, known fondly as “Marti,” age 62, of Georgetown, DE, formerly of Newark, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 12, 2013 after a lengthy illness.
Born in Trenton, NJ, on August 15, 1950, Marti was the daughter of the late James F. Pfeffer, Jr. and Jean Winters Pfeffer. Raised in Newark, DE, Marti was known as “The Rebellious Spirit” and was generally found in the middle of a group of friends. After graduating from Newark High School, she earned her bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Delaware.
A talented homemaker and gardener throughout her life, Marti later accepted a position as a librarian at Georgetown Public Library, where she retired as Director. A love of books was joined by a talent for watercolor, and in particular, painting flowers. The unearthing of human knowledge and plant life were, for many years, her passions. She had a generous spirit and a razor wit, both of which she employed on a regular basis. She was happiest at the beach enjoying the waves, and she loved thunderstorms almost as much. As a cat lover, she always had one by her side.
She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, James and Elizabeth DeChene of Talleyville, grandson, Grayden DeChene, a boyfriend, Joseph Thompson of Milton, and a host of dear friends who loved and cared for her. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Barbara Pancoast and Lauri P. Shinn.
A memorial service will be held at 3 pm on Sunday, July 21, 2013, at the Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, where visitation will begin at 2:30 pm.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Marti may be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Attn: Donor Services, P.O. Box 650309, Dallas, TX 75265-0309 (877.465.6636 / komen.org).