Geraldine Elaine Wiley, lovingly known as “Gerri,” passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by the love of her family. Born on July 8, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Irene Rhea Evans and Norman Williams Evans of Vienna. She was preceded in death by her parents and by the love of her life, her husband William E. “Bill” Wiley.
Geraldine married Bill in Vienna, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, strong friendships, and deep devotion to family. They made their home in Seaford in 1955, where they created a lifetime of cherished memories together. Following Bill’s passing in 1994, Geraldine continued to carry on those traditions, surrounding herself with family and friends while continuing to fill her home and life with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories for generations to come.
She is survived by her daughter, Susan Lloyd, and her partner, Randy Smith of Laurel, and her son, Norman Wiley of Seaford. She also leaves behind four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy and pride to her life.
Geraldine was a proud and devoted grandmother to Amanda Latchum (Lloyd) and her husband, Jay of Salisbury, along with their children, Kaelyn Parks, Nicholas Parks, Keegan Latchum, and Brynn Latchum; Mariha Joseph (Lloyd) and her husband, Jeremy of Bridgeville, and their children, Lucas and Arizona; Brian Lloyd and his wife, Colleen of Kitty Hawk, and their children, William and Wiley; and Megan Manso (Lloyd) and her husband, Anthony of Seaford, and their daughter, Parker. She was also blessed to see the next generation grow with the addition of Kaelyn Parks’ fiancé, Kyle Edwards, and their children, Truitt and Reid.
Geraldine lived her life for her family and was not only a mother and grandmother to her own family but also became a second mom and grandmother to many of her children’s and grandchildren’s friends, significant others, and extended loved ones throughout the years. To her, once you became family, you always remained family, no matter where life led. Even in recent weeks, she could still be found attending family gatherings and celebrations, happiest when surrounded by the people she loved. Often wrapped in a blanket at family functions, she would smile and say she was “snug as a bug in a rug.” She was a true spitfire with a vibrant personality and a signature philosophy: if you find something you love, you should buy it in every color. She also had a legendary sweet tooth and firmly believed there was always room for dessert. Even through doctor visits and life’s challenges, she rarely complained and would jokingly say, “I’m not in pain, I am a pain.” Always keeping a loving watch over those around her, she was known for asking, “Who’s keeping you straight?”, a phrase her family will forever hear in her voice and cherish in their hearts.
She was deeply adored by her family and friends and will be remembered for her strength, humor, warmth, and unwavering love for those closest to her.
Her family finds comfort knowing she is now reunited with her parents, the love of her life, Bill, her many dear friends, including her best friend, Joan Bryan, and the beloved dog companions who brought her comfort and companionship throughout the years. The memories she created and the love she gave so freely will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Graveside services will be held on Friday, June 5 at 10 a.m. at Odd Fellows Cemetery, 514 Third Street in Seaford.