Mary Elaine Shea, nee Hnat, 83, of Lewes, passed away Sept. 21, 2026, at The Moorings at Lewes, where she lived for the last four years.

Mary was born June 5, 1943, in Elizabeth, N.J. Mary was educated in the Elizabeth public schools and, following her graduation from Battin High School, attended Allegheny College in Meadville, Pa. She graduated in June 1965 with a bachelor of science degree in psychology. She later earned her master's degree in education from University of Pittsburgh. She began her teaching career in Monroeville, Pa. Mary retired from teaching in 2003 after an impressive 36-year career in education, including 32 years of service in Westfield, N.J. Mary was a dedicated teacher and a lifelong learner, pursuing courses and professional development up until her retirement.

Further recognizing her commitment to education, Mary was a longtime member of The College Woman’s Club, an organization that helps fund educational opportunities for young women and men through a variety of need-based grants and interest-free loans. She also volunteered as an ESL instructor offering companionship and guidance to newcomers to the U.S.

She was an avid reader, passionate traveler, and enthusiastic theatergoer, particularly a fan of Broadway Musicals.

Although Mary did not have children of her own, she was ever present in the lives of her nieces, Judy Hnat (Nancy Muniz), Jennifer Hnat Lombardi (Robert), Sandy Hnat Tichenor (Steve); and her nephew, Peter Hnat, Jr. She was there for every milestone of their lives as well as their children’s lives. She was a treasured great-aunt to Sarah, Nick, James, Anna, Ben, Sophie and Lily.

Mary was predeceased by her husband of 45 years, Gerald “Jerry” Shea. She is survived by her beloved partner of nearly six years, Donald Smith; her brother, Peter Hnat Sr. of The Villages, Fla.; and her stepsons, Kevin Shea (Tina) and Michael Shea, and Michael’s children, Thomas Shea (Kelly) and their son Nolan, Zachary Shea (Mireya) and their son Odin, and Holly Moylan. Family was incredibly important to Mary, and her memory is a blessing to all of those left behind.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Oct. 9, at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 200 2nd St., Lewes, where friends may visit beginning at 10 a.m. 

Interment will follow the services at St. Peter’s Cemetery, Pilottown Road, Lewes.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 464, Lewes, DE 19958, stpeterslewes.org/generosity; or The Springpoint Foundation at The Moorings at Lewes, 17028 Cadbury Cir., Lewes, DE 19958, Attn: Kristie Harris, Business Office, note on behalf of Mary Shea.

Visit Mary's Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.