Marion S. Thomas, devoted to family
Marion S. Thomas, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and the heart of her family, passed away peacefully at home in Rehoboth Beach Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025, surrounded by those she loved most. She was born in Wilmington to Louis F. and Mary S. Schaefer.
Classic, caring, charismatic—Marion was intentional with everyone she met. She had a rare ability to make people feel truly seen and valued, whether they were family, friends, or strangers who quickly became friends. Her warmth was magnetic, and she had an open-door policy—if you were in town, she wanted you to visit, and you could always count on a homemade chicken salad sandwich and a seat at her table.
She graduated from P.S. DuPont High School in Wilmington and Marjorie Webster Junior College in Washington, D.C. After college, she embraced the vibrancy of New York City, working at RCA International in Rockefeller Plaza, where she loved the energy of city life, shopping, and Broadway shows. She later returned to Wilmington and joined the DuPont Company before marrying the love of her life, Marvin L. Thomas Jr., a graduate of Salesianum and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, a career military officer. Marvin’s 22 years in the military took them on adventures across the U.S., Hawaii, and even Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
In 1992, she and Marvin retired to Rehoboth Beach, a cherished second home for many years. But slowing down was never in her nature—she soon took on a role at Beebe Medical Foundation in Lewes and remained actively involved in the community. She was a member of Rehoboth Art League and a former member of Rehoboth Beach Country Club.
Above all, Marion was devoted to her family. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her greatest joy was spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren over the years, making treasured memories on the beach and Boardwalk, at Funland, and around the family table. She loved and enjoyed taking care of everyone around her. She also enjoyed music, playing piano, gardening, and photography, capturing countless family moments and creating cherished photo albums for all to enjoy for years to come.
She is survived by her beloved children, Dr. Marvin L. Thomas III and his wife Beth of Chesapeake Beach, Md., Michael Scott Thomas and his wife Tina of Harbeson, and Lisa A. Thomas of Milton. Her cherished grandchildren include Laura Thomas Talevi and her husband Christopher, Marvin L. Thomas IV and his wife Rachel, twins Scott and Hank Thomas, and Sean Lackner. She also leaves behind her precious great-grandchildren, twins Cora Grace and Bruno Anthony Talevi, Marvin L. Thomas V, and Layla Rose Thomas.
She was predeceased by her husband, Marvin L. Thomas Jr., her parents; her brother, Louis F. Schaefer Jr.; and her sister-in-law, Rosemary Letonoff.
Marion’s kindness, generosity, and boundless love will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel like family, welcoming all with open arms and a warm heart. Her legacy lives on through the love she shared, the friendships she nurtured, and the countless lives she touched.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Marion's memory may be made to Rehoboth Art League.
Interment will be private.
Visit Marion's Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
