Nancy Lee McElwee

June 6, 1942 - October 23, 2023

Nancy Lee McElwee (Cole), age 81, of Newark, DE, passed away on Monday, October 23, 2023. She was born on June 6, 1942, in Elkton, MD to the late Walter Cole, Sr. and Anna T. Cole (Haley).

Nancy retired in 2012 after serving 38 years as a dedicated manager for the Brunswick Blue Hen Lanes. She also served her community as a volunteer for Meals on Wheels, an organization that she cherished. When Nancy took some time for herself, she enjoyed tending to her yard and garden. She loved gardening and adored every flower imaginable, especially roses. Nancy was a loving mother, grandmother and aunt who will be missed for her strong-willed and loving personality.

Nancy is survived by her stepchildren: Donald W. McElwee, Jr. (Mary), Grace Matoy (Michael), step grandchildren: William Jamison Douty, Donna Joan Niedlinger, Wilken A. Washburn (Lorianne), Eric F. Washburn (Stephanie), and Jason A. Dolor (Logan Cole); eight step great-grandchildren; one step great-great-grandchild; two nephews: David Rash (Patty) and Mark Rash (Stephanie); two nieces: Darlene Skinner and Tina Osienski; and several great nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Nancy is preceded by her loving husband, Donald McElwee, Sr.; sister, Betty Rash Walker; brother, Walter Cole, Jr.; and beloved cat, Bud Light.

At the convenience of the family, services for Nancy will be held privately.

RT Foard

Scott & Vickie Newcomer

Betty S Gray

DOUG KUHL

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Nancy Lee McElwee (Cole), age 81, of Newark, DE, passed away on Monday, October 23, 2023. She was born on June 6, 1942, in Elkton, MD to the late Walter Cole, Sr. and Anna T. Cole (Haley). Nancy retired in 2012 after serving 38 years as a dedicated manager for the Brunswick Blue Hen Lanes.Continue Reading

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Dear Nancy how you will be missed. We just heard the news and are heartbroken! Sending love and prayers to the family! We love you Nancy, rest in peace! Love Always, Doug & Susan Moore

In memory of Nancy Lee McElwee, Scott & Vickie Newcomer lit a candle

Nancy was so much a part of all the guys lives from the Wednesday Night Merchantmens League in the 70's and 80's. To this day, I often think of the Friday night's Fran Lewandowski, Bill Cooke and me would stop in and end the week with Nancy. My sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers to all of you at this most difficult time.

In memory of Nancy Lee McElwee, Betty S Gray lit a candle

Aunt Nancy we will miss your spunky passionate love hard stand your ground fabulous personality ❤️ I personally will miss our long talks about everything ! From giving me cooking advice to those super special sayings only a select few can never unhear ? I hope you and Uncle Donald are dancing the days and nights away! Please give Betty (other mom) a big hug! I am sure now that you two are reunited the unleashing will begin! Much much love sweetheart ? until we meet again ?

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I am so saddened to hear of Nancy’s passing but take solace to know that she has finally been reunited with her beloved Don who was everything to her. Nancy was an amazing person and a great friend who will forever hold a special place in my heart. Nancy stood for me as my Maid of honor at my wedding and I spent countless nights over the year's sitting and talking with her in the lounge at Blue Hen where she bartended. Nancy was a very big part of what made Blue Hen Lanes the special place it that it was. There is no doubt she was loved and will be missed by all of us who had the privilege and honor to consider her a wonderful and dear friend.

In deepest sympathy to Nancy’s family. We had a special friendship for over 50 years, my heart is breaking,I will miss her, she took a piece of my heart with her.

sad to hear

Thoughts and prayers to the family. I remember great times sitting and talking with her at Blue Hen Lanes

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.