Li-Ju Tseng Chao, 85, of Newark, Delaware, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, beloved aunt, and cherished friend whose kindness, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family touched all who knew her. Li-Ju was born in 1941 inContinue Reading
Li-Ju Tseng Chao, 85, of Newark, Delaware, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, beloved aunt, and cherished friend whose kindness, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family touched all who knew her.
Li-Ju was born in 1941 in Shanghai, China, and spent her formative years in Tainan, Taiwan. Together with her husband, Jim Chao, she embarked on a courageous journey to the United States in 1972, settling in Newark, Delaware. Like many immigrants of their generation, they left behind the familiar in pursuit of greater educational opportunities and a brighter future for their children. Their determination, sacrifice, and hard work laid the foundation for generations to come.
After arriving in Delaware, Li-Ju and Jim established Dragon’s Den, the first Chinese restaurant in Newark. Over more than three decades, the restaurant became a beloved local institution, serving the community until its closure in 1998. Through her warmth, hospitality, and tireless work ethic, Li-Ju helped create a gathering place where generations of Newark residents enjoyed not only authentic Chinese cuisine but also a sense of friendship and community.
Family was the center of Li-Ju’s life. She found great joy in cooking and expressed her love through the meals she prepared for family and friends. Her kitchen was always open, her table always full, and her heart always generous. Whether preparing favorite family recipes, celebrating holidays, or simply gathering loved ones together, she created cherished memories that will endure for generations.
Li-Ju was the beloved wife of Jim Chao. She is survived by her children, Wen Chao and her husband, Keith Watson; Min Chao and his wife, Jennifer Chao; her cherished grandchildren, Alexis and Zachary; and her beloved nieces, Lynn Chao and Faye Chao. She leaves behind a legacy of courage, perseverance, generosity, and unconditional love.
Those who knew Li-Ju will remember her gentle spirit, quiet strength, and steadfast devotion to family. Her life embodied the immigrant dream: building a new life through hard work and sacrifice so that future generations could enjoy opportunities she had only imagined. She measured success not by personal accomplishments, but by the happiness, education, and achievements of her children and grandchildren.
Though she will be deeply missed, her example and the values she instilled will continue to guide all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.
Funeral services will be held privately. Invitations and service details will be shared with family and close friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to educational organizations or scholarship programs that expand opportunities for future generations, reflecting Li-Ju’s lifelong belief in the power of education and the opportunities it creates.
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