Rebecca Gibbons McCall's Obituary
Rebecca Gibbons Steele McCall, 85, of Millsboro, Delaware, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2026.
Born on May 13, 1941, in Wilmington, Delaware, Rebecca was the daughter of Pauline Louise Gibbons Steele Swain and Timothy Wesley Steele. A graduate of William Penn High School, she devoted her life to caring for others and creating a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family.
Rebecca was preceded in death by her beloved husband of more than forty years, Thomas J. McCall Jr., who passed away on May 20, 2004; her parents, Pauline and Wesley Steele; and her brother, Tom Steele.
She is survived by her children, Thomas J. McCall III; Amy Mayer and her husband, Lyle Mayer; and Molly Sewell and her husband, Michael Sewell. She also leaves behind her cherished grandsons, Trent Sewell and Maxwell Sewell; her sister, Mary Ann Komarnicki and her husband, Steve Komarnicki; and many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love and friendship.
Rebecca was a successful business owner who operated a home daycare for more than thirty-seven years. To the many families whose children passed through her doors, she was far more than a daycare provider. She nurtured generations of children with patience, kindness, and genuine love, treating each child as though they were her own. The relationships she formed endured long after the children grew up, a testament to the profound impact she had on countless lives.
While she was proud of her accomplishments, her favorite title was “Mommom.” Nothing brought Rebecca greater joy than her grandsons, Trent and Max, whom she adored beyond measure. She was their biggest fan, rarely missing a sporting event, music performance, theater production, or milestone celebration. She celebrated every achievement, large and small, and made each of her grandsons feel deeply loved, supported, and cherished.
Rebecca shared an extraordinary love story with her husband, Tom. Their marriage was marked by devotion, partnership, and joy. Their children grew up watching them dance together in the living room, sing love songs to one another, hold hands wherever they went, and steal kisses at red lights. Together they created a home where family always came first, laughter was abundant, and everyone felt welcome. Though Tom’s passing left an immeasurable void, Rebecca carried her love for him in her heart every day.
Known affectionately as a true “boss lady,” Rebecca possessed remarkable determination and resilience. She faced life’s challenges with courage, grace, and an unwavering spirit, meeting adversity head-on while remaining steadfast in her commitment to those she loved.
Yet beneath that strength was a heart overflowing with compassion. Rebecca consistently placed the needs of others before her own. She worried about everyone she loved, often carrying her own burdens quietly so others would not have to. Her kindness, generosity, and quick sense of humor left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Even during her final years at Cadia Rehabilitation Renaissance, Rebecca continued to brighten the lives of those around her. Staff members often spoke of her warm smile, sharp wit, and remarkable ability to make others feel valued and appreciated. No matter the circumstances, she had a gift for lifting spirits and bringing comfort to those in her presence.
Rebecca found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved Christmas and made the season magical for her family each year through elaborate meals, thoughtful gifts, and treasured traditions. She delighted in tending her tea roses, visiting Longwood Gardens, spending time at the beach with her family, and enjoying favorite treats such as Grotto Pizza, Dolle’s saltwater taffy, and Thrasher’s French fries. Some of her happiest moments were spent on the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk, surrounded by the people she loved most.
Those who knew Rebecca will remember the words that reflected her optimistic spirit and enduring faith in brighter days ahead. Whenever life became difficult, she would say, “Everything will work out. It’ll all work out.” She reassured those she loved with, “You’re going to be okay,” and often ended conversations with her familiar reminder: “You take care of yourself.”
Rebecca’s legacy is one of unconditional love, resilience, generosity, and grace. She taught her family the importance of perseverance, gratitude, and compassion. Through her actions, she showed what it means to love deeply, give selflessly, and live with kindness.
A funeral service celebrating Rebecca’s life was held on June 13, 2026.
Though her family mourns her absence, they find comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind and in the love that continues to bind them together. Her influence lives on in the family she cherished, the lives she touched, and the values she instilled.
Most of all, Rebecca will be remembered as a woman who loved fiercely, gave generously, and never stopped believing that no matter the challenge, everything would work out in the end
After twenty-two years apart, she is now reunited with the love of her life, Tom, and at peace.
She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.
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