Barbara Jacqueline Ford's Obituary
Barbara Jacqueline Ford, age 92, died in the comfort of her home in Rehoboth Beach DE on Friday August 16, 2024, after an extended struggle with dementia.
Barbara was born in Felton DE on November 8,1931 the daughter of Gertrude (Outten) and John Barton Wilson and grew up in the old Adams Street neighborhood of Wilmington DE prior to I-95 cutting through the city. After graduation from Wilmington High Class of 1950, she took business trade courses at Goldey-Beacom College and started a career at Conley, Mills & Rossiter Real Estate and later in life retired from Margaretten Mortgage.
On June 4, 1951, Barbara married Donald G. Marcus of Wilmington DE and raised a family in Klair Estates. After an amicable divorce in 1981, Barbara married Doyle C. Ford of Wilmington DE on June 10, 1983. In 2020, they moved to their Rehoboth Beach house full-time.
Barbara was a happy fun-loving person that was always on the go. She enjoyed regular travel to many interesting places throughout the USA as well as to the Caribbeans and several European countries.
Barbara’s passion was working in her flower gardens and was a member of the Hoe & Hope Garden Club. As an avid animal lover, she provided a home for several stray dogs and cats throughout the years. Barbara also supported sanctuaries for rescued elephants and distressed sea turtles.
Barbara will be missed by her husband Doyle Ford of Rehoboth Beach DE, her son David Marcus of Wilmington DE, her daughter Donna Neiger of Glen Allen VA, and her grandson Alex Neiger of Richmond VA. She will also be missed by her stepfamily: stepson Paul Ford, York Springs PA, stepdaughter Kathy Walls of Wilmington DE, step granddaughter Lacey Lambe (Wesley)and step great-grandsons Clyde and Hudson Lambe all of Chapel Hill NC.
Special thanks go to Delaware Hospice who provided in-home care and support during her final weeks.
Service will be held privately.
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