Birth date: Apr 5, 1942 Death date: Dec 27, 2025
Susan Jane Clifton (Jane), age 83, of Lewes and Seaford, Delaware, died on December 27, 2025, in Lewes. She was born on April 5, 1942, in Milford, Delaware, and was known for her dedication to education, her love of animals, and h Read Obituary
Ms. Clifton taught English and directed class plays at The Country School for many years. She taught her 7th and 8th graders to 'punch above their weight class,' with students reading books such as “The Crucible,” “One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich,” and “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge." She taught the complete method for writing a 30-page research paper—from the outline, research notes, and box of index cards to the drafts and revisions.
In this photo from 1977, Ms. Clifton conducts the start of a Pinewood Derby event, where students made and raced their own wooden cars. R.I.P. to a stellar woman, teacher, and director.
Submitted to The Country School (Easton, MD) Facebook page by Holly Thompson, an early student of Miss Clifton
My fondest memory of Jane is our conversation with her cuddled up on our couch talking about her dogs and cat and how much she enjoyed them. She was so happy when she was talking to fellow animal lovers. At that point we had an old dog and she understood just what that was all about. When we finished talking she invited us to come visit with Kurt and her in Seaford and Lewes… but she did love that sweet spot in Lewes! 💕I wish that I had experienced her in the classroom teaching because she was passionate about the written and spoken word and theatre. Passion makes that love contagious. Through my eyes, Jane was a tough gal. She enjoyed the outdoors, and cycled more than I would even dream of doing. She fought like a trooper to get back on that bike, or any bike that would have wheels going round. I also remember how often she welcomed us to visit again, and checked to make sure that Kurt was close by or would be right back. Jane loved her people and collected people and animals as family. Kurt, like his Dad, Virgil, was very dedicated to her care and comfort for the last years. Jane was fortunate to have a lot of awesome caregivers that gave her love and good care. One of my last fun memories was Jane and Kurt, Joe and I all crammed in the tiny camper eating take out, because that was all we could figure out under the circumstances. She was smiling, upbeat, warmed with a knit cap, and was a trooper once again. 💕
Submitted by Annie Winkler Beauchemin
Kurt, we are so sorry for Jane’s passing. She was a kind soul and an intricate part of 33130 Village Loop; every one knew & loved her.
Your care & devotion to her the past 3 years clearly demonstrates the love you two shared.
We are sorry we could not be there for the services today but please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jane was an Amazing and intelligent woman. I will forever cherish the memories of our talks when we visited each other. Your kindness will be missed by everyone who knew you. Dochas and I will miss you greatly! Rest in peace, knowing you were so deeply loved.
Jane Clifton was simply brilliant! A conversation with her was an education in itself. Her unbounded and enthusiastic love for teaching, theatre, reading, and learning, was only surpassed by her devotion to her students. I treasure the lunches, dinners, and conversations we shared in Lewes as she and Kurt welcomed us to their home. Whatever Jane did, she gave herself 110%, sharing her travel experiences, showering her animals with attention, or riding her bike.
A bright light is no longer with us, but she and her friendship will always have a place in my heart.
Cindy Orban
Dear Kurt -
I am so sorry for your loss. Jane was such a dear, sweet soul. No doubt she has already earned her wings! You are in my prayers.
Lynn Amaty, Seaford
