Teresa A. Brown

Teresa A. Brown, age 65, of Newark, Delaware, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.

Born in Moultrie, Georgia on September 11, 1960, she was the daughter of Frances (Talierch) Shanaver and the late Ruis Bates. Teresa dedicated many years of her career as a CNA, in Medical Records and as a Scheduler at the former Brandywine Nursing Home until her retirement.

Teresa had a deep love for animals that began in childhood and stayed with her throughout her life. Known for her adventurous and spirited nature, she once brought home a ferret as a child—despite its unforgettable smell—and even “rescued” a neighbor’s dachshund simply because she couldn’t bear to see an animal uncared for. That boldness and resourcefulness never faded. As a mother, she filled her home with love, often caring for Chow Chows and encouraging her children to help rescue and care for lost or abandoned animals in the neighborhood.

In her quieter moments, Teresa enjoyed watching crime documentaries, vacationing and listening to music. She had a special fondness for all things Disney, especially Tinker Bell, and could often be found relaxing with a cold root beer and a bag of M&M’s. She lived with grit, spirit and bravery that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

In addition to her father, Teresa was preceded in death by her husband, William H. Brown; and her siblings, Donna Bates and Patrick Bates. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Dana Bates, Zach Bates (Jacki), and Brittnee Baker (Lewis); her grandchildren, Madison and Jack; her mother, Frances Shanaver; her sister, Celeste Bates; and a host of nieces and nephews. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her kind heart, free spirit, and unwavering love for her family and animals.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 12:30 p.m. A committal service will follow in the chapel of Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Teresa’s memory to the Brandywine SPCA, 290 Churchmans Road, New Castle, DE 19720, or online by clicking here.