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Charlotte Reed Kirsch, retired Family Court clerk

January 28, 2026
Charlotte Reed Kirsch of Lewes passed away peacefully Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, at AccentCare Hospice in Wilmington.

Charlotte was born on her family farm in Slaughter Neck, daughter of the late Frank L., Sr. and Marguerite (Wells) Reed.

Charlotte retired as Clerk of the Court after many years with the State of Delaware Family Court system.

She loved exercising and staying fit, spending time at the beach, and wintering in Florida. Charlotte also had a soft spot for animals. She especially loved her feline companions, as well as feeding and watching backyard birds and squirrels.

In addition to her parents, Charlotte is preceded in death by her husband, Howard “Slug” Kirsch; sister and brother-in-law, Joan K. Morgan and Woody; and her brother and sister-in-law, Frank L. Reed Jr. and Pat.

She is survived by two daughters, Sharon R. Purnell and husband Michael, and Sheila M. Sharp; three grandchildren, Matthew Purnell (Joann), Hillary Brock (Todd) and Jennifer Caras (Paul); her brother-in-law, Bill Kirsch; her longtime companion, Keith McDermott; 10 great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Charlotte’s caregivers, Liette, Stacey and Susan, for their loving care and support over the past several months.

A memorial service will be scheduled for the spring and details will be posted at that time.

In lieu of flowers and to honor her love of animals, the family welcomes contributions in Charlotte’s memory to Brandywine Valley SPCA, bvspca.org/donate.

Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Services, Milton.

Online condolences may be shared to the family at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.