Chere A. Riordan's Obituary
Chere A. Riordan, a devoted public servant, beloved matriarch, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, February 14, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on November 8, 1947, in Ridley Park, she was raised in Woodlyn, Pennsylvania.
A graduate of Ridley Township Senior High School in 1965, Chere pursued her passion for helping others by earning her Licensed Practical Nurse certification from Chester-Upland School of Practical Nursing. She later retired from the State of Delaware, having dedicated her career to serving her community.
Chere’s commitment to volunteerism was an inspiration to all who knew her. She gave tirelessly of her time and talents, serving in various capacities, including Mid Sussex Rescue Squad, where she served as President, Board Member, Ambulance Attendant, and EMT for an incredible 46 years, 3 months, and 7 days. In recognition of her dedication, she was awarded Life Membership; Auxiliary of the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company, where she served as Vice President and earned Life Membership for 18 years, 1 month, and 15 days of service; and Indian River Volunteer Fire Company, where she was certified as a Delaware Firefighter I, serving 25 years, 7 months, and 7 days in roles such as Assistant Secretary, Assistant Chaplain, Chairperson of the Fund Drive Committee, and Member of the Critical Incident Stress Management Team.
Chere’s unwavering dedication to the Delaware Fire Service was a beacon of inspiration, leaving a lasting impact on those she worked alongside.
Above all, Chere cherished her family. She is survived by her husband, Edward Riordan, Sr., and their children, Edward, Jr. (Holly), Monica, and special daughter Kristie Layton. She was a devoted grandmother to Kaitlynne Riordan, Christyn Riordan, Colyn Riordan, Izabella LaTorre, and Savannah Reed, and a proud great-grandmother to nine great-grandchildren.
She is also survived by her sisters, Susan Messick of Millsboro, Barbara Layton of Lewes, and Deborah Miller of Georgetown, as well as her brothers, Raymond Miller, Stephen Miller, and Patrick Miller, all of Millsboro. Chere leaves behind numerous other beloved family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Dolores Miller, and grandparents, Chester and Pearl Goudy.
Chere’s life was a testament to the profound difference one person can make by volunteering. Her unwavering dedication, kindness, and love will forever inspire those who knew her, especially the grandchildren she so deeply adored. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives she touched.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 11am at Watson Funeral Home and Crematorium in Millsboro, DE, with a viewing from 10-11am prior to the start of the service. Interment will be held at Millsboro Cemetery immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her honor to the Boys & Girls Club of Oak Orchard-Riverdale, 31550 Oak Orchard Road, Millsboro, DE 19966.
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