Susan Jane Clifton's Obituary
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 her active, curious nature. As a girl Jane attended drama school in New York City before graduating from Seaford High School, where she first discovered her interest in learning and teaching. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware, completed a Master’s degree at Harvard, and finished additional graduate work at Salisbury State Teachers’ College. Her own education was important to her throughout her life.
Jane worked for many years as a middle school teacher at The Country School in Easton, Maryland, helping students learn and grow. She also tutored students one-on-one, sharing her knowledge and providing encouragement.
Outside of her work, Jane enjoyed being active and spending time with animals. She was an avid tennis player, rode her bicycle often, and especially loved riding horses in her younger years. In addition, she was a voracious reader, especially of non-fiction, poetry and drama. She loved attending professional theatrical productions as well as the ballet. She cared deeply for her pets: dogs, cats, and even a blind chicken when she was a girl.
Jane is survived by her loving husband Kurt Andress Winkler, and her cherished animal companions — her two Maltese dogs, Wistin and Issa, and her beloved cat, Ariadne. These companions were a special part of her everyday life and brought her joy, comfort, and loyal friendship.
She was predeceased by her parents, Jim and Louise Wiley Clifton.
Her commitment to her students, her interests, and the people and animals she loved will be remembered by all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her memory to Save the Manatee Club or another wildlife preservation organization of your choice.
A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE. A viewing will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. prior to the service.
Interment will be on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 11:00 at Odd Fellows Cemetery, 513 3rd Street, Seaford, DE 19973.
Please sign the tribute wall located on this website.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE HAVE ALL FLOWERS DELIVERED ON MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 2026 BY 10AM TO OUR LEWES LOCATION.
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