Mary Rita Schaab Welch of Seaford passed away surrounded by family on Sept. 12, 2026. She was born on Feb. 12, 1936, in Selbyville. After graduating from Selbyville High, she worked at numerous jobs, including a local bank and driving a school bus. She then attended Salisbury State College, where she attained a Bachelor of Science degree and began her career as a school teacher, from which she retired.

Mary was an avid seamstress, which she most undoubtedly acquired from her mother. She would make clothing for her children and grandchildren and even made wedding dresses and gowns. She was also an avid quilter. She loved plants and enjoyed her outside (children), her birds, for which she had numerous feeders. But her most cherished love was her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mary was preceded in death by her father, Lloyd Schaab; her mother, Viana Schaab; and her husband of 70 years, Quentin Welch.

She is survived by her two sons, Curtis and Stuart (Shelley); grandchildren Natalie Woodland, Stacey Seilheimer, Angela Childs; and great-grandchildren, Keith Woodland, Morgan Seilheimer, Noah Childs, and Shawn Seilheimer.

Her quick wit and unending collection of jokes will truly be missed by all.

Visitation for family and friends will be on Friday, Sept. 18, from 11 a.m.-noon at Cranston Funeral Home, 300N Shipley Street in Seaford. Service to follow. Burial will be in Laurel Hill Cemetery in Laurel.

To leave a condolence visit www.cranstonfuneralhome.com.