Agnes Desmond McLane, cherished family, friends
Agnes Desmond McLane, 92, passed away Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born in Wilmington daughter of Denis F. Desmond from Ballyvourney, County Cork, Ireland, and Kathleen Lucy from Ovens, County Cork, Ireland. She had five siblings: sisters, Margaret McCafferty, Mary Massey, Catherine Desmond and Betty Walczak; and one brother, Francis. A proud graduate of Ursuline Academy, Agnes began her career at Security Trust after completing her education.
Agnes met and married a young Marine, Brice J. McLane Sr., and they honeymooned at Camp Lejeune, N.C. Together, they raised four sons in Wilmington during the tumultuous 1960s. Agnes worked as the school secretary at Christ Our King Catholic School before moving on to the Delaware Law School, where she eventually became director of admissions, helping launch hundreds of legal careers.
Throughout her life, Agnes faced challenges with remarkable strength of character and her signature quick wit. When she was just six years old, her father passed away, and she was primarily raised by her oldest sister, Margaret. Later, while her husband worked multiple jobs, Agnes raised their four sons. Her boys recognize the sacrifices she made to provide them with a better life.
Agnes took great pride in her extended family and friends. Even in her later years, while living in an assisted living facility, she quickly made friends and was known for helping fellow residents, particularly in maintaining the gardens. She aspired to have a green thumb and occasionally succeeded. Above all, Agnes had a deep love for reading novels, often revisiting her favorites.
In addition to her parents and siblings, Agnes was predeceased by her husband and her son, Brice J. McLane Jr. She is survived by her sons, Mark Dennis McLane (Kathryn) of Asheville, N.C., Kevin Rufus McLane (Peggy) of Millsboro, and Jeffery Patrick McLane (Carolyn) of Millsboro. She also leaves behind seven grandchildren, Mark McCoy (Ann) of Tallahassee, Fla., Matthew McCoy (Allison) of Newark, Molly Martin (John) of Franklin, Tenn., Sean McLane and Kate McLane, both of Salt Lake City, Utah, Dr. Kevin D. McLane of Dover, and Lauren McLane of Wilmington; and seven great-grandchildren, Chad B. Brown Jr. of Severna Park, Md., Violet and Ruby McCoy of Newark, Elsie and Sam McCoy of Tallahassee, and L.J. and Brandon Martin of Franklin.
Agnes will be interred in a private ceremony at a future date.
Online condolences can be made by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.
