Jean M. Babiarz, family matriarch
Jean M. (Brick) Babiarz, 93, passed away peacefully at home Monday, Dec. 15, 2025.
Jean was born March 7, 1932, at her childhood home in Chester, Pa., daughter of the late Jacob and Stella Brick. She met the love of her life at a dance in Wilmington. Jean and Stanley were married not too long afterwards. She lived a long and boisterous life defined by devotion to family, strong opinions, and her love of bingo and the slot machines. Jean was preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband, Stanley, with whom she shared more than 50 years of marriage; her siblings, John Brick and Helen Julian; and best friend, Thomas Lee Stubbins.
Jean and Stan lived on Marsh Road in Wilmington, where they raised their three children, Celeste of Lewes, Mark (Doreen) of Elkton, Md., and Matthew (Gail) of Joppa, Md. They remained in Wilmington until their retirement when the couple moved into their beach house in Lewes, after many weekends and summers spent in Rehoboth.
Jean was also a loving Babcia (grandmother) to her three beautiful granddaughters, Ashley (Chad) Wyatt, Sarah (Aaron) Shumaker and Rebecca (David) Barton; one grandson, Dale Babiarz; two step-grandsons, Craig and Ian; and a cherished great-grandmother to seven great-grandchildren.
In her retirement, she was a proud member of the University Women, traveling often overseas and to casinos. Jean was a member of the Cape Henlopen Senior Center, Harbour Lights CHEER Center, and Lewes Senior Activity Center. She also took many sponsored day trips, but her favorites were to the nearby casinos. Jean loved spending time playing bingo with friends. She loved competing in hat and costume competitions, and won many over the years with her creativity on full display. Jean loved spending time on her porch swing, visiting with family, telling stories and of course, playing games. Known for her warm smile, lively spirit, sharp wit and creativity, Jean leaves behind a legacy of love and a lifetime of stories.
A memorial service celebrating her life will be held in the coming months, with information provided once plans are finalized.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in her memory to Cape Henlopen Senior Center, Lewes Senior Activity Center or to her church, Lewes Presbyterian Church.
