Mary Ellen (Reinsmith) Farquhar of Seaford passed away peacefully on June 16, 2025, leaving a legacy that touched countless lives with her warmth, kindness, and an unmatched ability to connect with those around her.
Born on June 6, 1936, in Emmaus, Pa., Mary Ellen was the daughter of Margaret and Carlton Reinsmith. She graduated from Emmaus High School in 1954, earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Gettysburg College in 1958, and completed a master’s in education at Temple University in 1962.
In 1959, Mary Ellen married her college sweetheart, John F. Farquhar, DDS, and together they shared a loving and enduring partnership for over six decades. She was a devoted mother to their two children, Katherine F. Benedict of Salt Lake City, UT, and John C. Farquhar of Dewey Beach. She also took great joy in being a grandmother to her beloved grandson, Cooper T. Benedict and his father Rus.
Mary Ellen was a dedicated educator who taught science at Ardmore Junior High in Philadelphia, Mount Pleasant High School in Wilmington, and Seaford High School. Known for her ability to connect with students and bring science to life, she was deeply loved for her engaging and approachable style. Many students will remember her not just as a teacher, but as someone who genuinely cared about them, their interests, and their futures.
Her love for people extended far beyond the classroom. Mary Ellen enjoyed talking to everyone she met. Whether it was a neighbor, a stranger, or an old friend, she had an innate ability to make people feel heard and valued. She served as President of the Seaford School Board, the Pre-Kindergarten Association, and the High School Band Association, where she worked tirelessly to make a difference. She was also a dedicated member of the AAUW Seaford Branch and the Friends of the Seaford Library, where she found joy in supporting educational initiatives.
Mary Ellen’s faith was an important part of her life. She was an active member of the Cursillo movement, where she attended the weekly study group and helped others deepen their spiritual journey. She also served on the Nanticoke Watershed Preservation Committee, reflecting her commitment to both the environment and the community she loved.
Outside of her many commitments, Mary Ellen found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved international travel, gardening, and, most of all, spending time with family and friends. Long Beach Island, NJ, was a special place for family gatherings, where the sound of the waves and the company of loved ones brought her unparalleled happiness. Mary Ellen also enjoyed playing bridge, attending her book group, and nurturing lifelong friendships.
Mary Ellen will be remembered for the joy she brought into every conversation. Her warmth, kindness, and genuine interest in others made her a friend to all who knew her. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched with her generous spirit.
Mary Ellen is survived by her husband, John F. Farquhar, DDS; her children, Katherine F. Benedict and John C. Farquhar; her son-in-law, Russell B. Benedict; her grandson, Cooper T. Benedict; and many extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Margaret and Carlton Reinsmith.
A celebration of Mary Ellen’s life will be held on July 8 at 11:30 a.m. at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Seaford. Her family invites all those whose lives she touched to join them in remembering her vibrant and loving spirit.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Seaford Library in her memory.
To leave a condolence visit www.cranstonfuneralhome.com.