Rosemary Ellen Metzger's Obituary
Rosemary Ellen Metzger “Rowie”, age 96 of Lewes, DE, passed away on Wednesday, November 8, 2023. She was born on February 26, 1927, in Washington, DC, daughter of the late Francis K. and Elizabeth N. Metzger.
Rosemary earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the School of Nursing at Georgetown University. She worked as a registered nurse at the Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC for over 35 years, until her retirement in 1985. Rosemary’s love for the seashore brought her to move to Lewes, DE; first as a part-time resident, then later full-time. She sold her first historic home on 4th Street in Lewes, which was relocated to Ship Carpenter Square. Her 2nd historic home on Railroad Avenue was her permanent home for 41 years. Rosemary worked part-time at The Childrens Beach House and volunteered at several non-profit organizations, including the Lewes Historical Society. She was a loyal dog owner to her beloved dogs, Isis, Sisi, Cindy, and Lexi. Rosemary was an avid gardener, and her gardens were often part of the annual Lewes Garden Tour. Her true calling and passion was caring for children - in the neighborhood and also her nieces and nephews; the children of her late sister, Patricia; along with her great nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Rosemary was preceded in death by her sisters: Patricia M. Wright and Gloria M. Smith; and her great nieces: Laura J. Simpson and Jessica L. Petsche. She is survived by her brother, David K. Metzger (Patricia); her nieces and nephews: Karen E. Simpson, Deborah A. Farrell, Edwin F. Jacobsen, Mary Teresa “Terri” Jacobsen, Elizabeth A. DeMarr, Paul I. Jacobsen, Carolyn J. Petsche, David M. Metzger, Suzanne M. Metzger, Lisa M. Metzger, Collette A. Martino, Drew M. Harcum, and Monique A. Morano; and many great nieces and great nephews.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 1, 2023, at 11:00 AM, at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, 152 Tulip Drive, Lewes, DE, where friends may visit beginning at 10:00 AM.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes, DE.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to the Children’s Beach House in Lewes, DE.
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE DELIVER ALL ARRANGEMENTS BY 3PM, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023, TO OUR LEWES LOCATION.
What’s your fondest memory of Rosemary?
What’s a lesson you learned from Rosemary?
Share a story where Rosemary's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Rosemary you’ll never forget.
How did Rosemary make you smile?