Thelma Dorey Monroe's Obituary
Obituary of Thelma Dorey Monroe
Entrepreneur, Civic Leader, former Mayor
Thelma Dorey Monroe, of Millsboro, DE passed away in the presence of loved ones on Thursday, February 9, 2023. She was 95 years old. She was born on September 4, 1927 to the late William B. and Cora Johnson Dorey in Millsboro. Thelma was a graduate of Millsboro High School, and Goldey Beacon College. She married Walter Monroe, and together they managed the WP Monroe & Sons Clothing Store and raised four children. Both Walter and Thelma were members of Grace United Methodist Church and were active in the community, and loved civic affairs.
Thelma had a deep interest in politics, leading to her holding many offices over the years. She served fifteen years on the Indian River School Board. Actively involved in Democratic Party service, she befriended a young Joe Biden, who would stop by the store and visit when he was downstate. She served as Mayor of Millsboro from 1979 through 1994 and held office as Chairperson of the Sussex County Democrat Committee; President of Sussex County Association of Towns; Clerk of the Peace; and Jury Commissioner.
Thelma worked very hard to support Democratic candidates, including Senator Biden, Senator Carper, Governor Minner, and current Governor Carney. She was dedicated, tough, a trend setter and a determined woman to make it in a man's world. She was dedicated to her "Marvelous Millsboro" as she called it when Mayor and will be remembered for her absolutely sparkling and strong-willed personality. She was above all devoted to her family, friends, and fellow Sussex Countians, setting a terrific example of tenacity, carrying on well even after her beloved husband Walter passed in 2009.
Thelma is survived by her four children: Karen Jo Reed and husband Jim of Lansing, KS; Walter Keith Monroe and wife Marie of Millsboro; Mark William Monroe, and wife Emily, of Ruckersville, VA; and Pamela Monroe Serman, and husband Gordon, of Millsboro. In addition, she has eight grandchildren: Melissa (Jeremy), Jenny, Paul (Ashley) Jon (Carolanne), Zachary, Allison, Luke and Ben. She also has 10 great grandchildren. Also surviving her are all her "Marvelous Millsboro" family and friends whom she loved very much!
A time of viewing and visitation will be held from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at the Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington St., Millsboro, DE on February 20, 2023.
At 1:00 PM, a funeral service will be held with Rev. Karin Tunnell and Rev. Josh Berry officiating. Interment follows at the Millsboro Cemetery with a full formal procession through her beloved town of Millsboro, escorted by Millsboro Police officers.
In lieu of flowers the family suggest donations to Grace United Methodist Church, PO Box 566, Millsboro, DE 19966.
Electronic Condolences to: www.watsonfh.com
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