Daphne Anne Beckman, addictions counselor
Daphne Anne Beckman, 75, of Ocean View, formerly of Mount Airy, Md., passed away Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017, at Christiana Care in Newark, while surrounded by her loving family.
She was born in New York City, N.Y., May 19, 1942, daughter of the late Evelyn (Comyns) Sheffey. Dee was a 1959 graduate of St. Joseph's Academy in Tucson, Ariz. She then attended the University of Arizona and eventually received her Maryland certification in addiction counseling.
She was a loving mother who believed raising her children to be the greatest mission of her life.
Dee was a grateful member of Alcoholics Anonymous with over 35 years of sobriety. She worked as an addiction counselor from 1985 until her retirement in 1997. One of her proudest achievements was pioneering the Safe Harbour program for addicted pregnant women seeking recovery at Mountain Manor in Emmitsburg, Md. She continued to counsel others after retiring, touching so many lives throughout her career, and helping countless individuals with their sobriety. She was the most passionate, caring person who shared unconditionally with anyone seeking a sober life.
Dee was a self-proclaimed "New York Diva." She had a passion for all things fashion and enjoyed going to the theatre. In her free time, she enjoyed reading, listening to music, and loved the beach. She and her husband, Bill, would frequently go on cruises and would vacation every year to St. Maarten.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Michael Beckman in 1988; and a brother, John M. Sheffey Jr. She is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, William Lee Beckman; three children, Linda M. Beckman of Ellicott City, Md., Theresa D. Richard of Ocean View and Mark E. Beckman of Great Mills, Md.; five grandchildren, Zachary Richard of Laurel, Md., Zoë Richard of Ocean View, Michael Beckman of Great Mills, Zane Richard of Ocean View and Andrew Beckman of Great Mills; a nephew Danny Sheffey of Boone, N.C.; and so many extended family and friends whose lives she has touched.
A visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 24, at the Ocean View Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 38040 Muddy Neck Road, Ocean View. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 25, at St. Ann Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach. Interment will be held privately at St. Peter's Cemetery in Libertytown, Md.
Dee loved flowers so flowers are welcome.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com
