Florence Theresa Lawler

Florence Theresa (Namiotkiewicz) Lawler, of Middletown, Delaware, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026, at the age of 83.

Born on October 1, 1942, Florence lived a life defined by love, creativity, family, friendship, and a remarkable ability to bring joy to everyone around her.

Florence was the devoted wife of James Lawler, with whom she shared 64 wonderful years of marriage. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, traditions, and unwavering love. She was a loving mother to her sons, Michael Lawler and his wife Kristie, and Mark Lawler and his wife Diane.

Nothing brought Florence greater happiness than her family. She was an incredibly proud grandmother to Eric, Ryan, Katie, Sophie, Ginnie, and Zach, whose lives, accomplishments, adventures, and successes brought her endless joy. She celebrated every milestone, large or small, and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them.

Florence is also survived by her beloved sister, Mary Ann. She was predeceased by her sisters, Esther, Marty, and Franny, and by her brothers, Frank and Eddie.

Florence spent much of her life in Pennsylvania before moving to Delaware in 1994, where she remained for the rest of her life. She enjoyed a successful career in administration and business management, earning the respect of those who worked alongside her. Yet her greatest gifts were found outside of the workplace.

Florence was a true artist at heart. She possessed a unique ability to see beauty and possibility in ordinary things, transforming them into something special with her creativity and imagination. Whether she was working with flowers, leather, crafts, decorations, or found objects, she approached every project with enthusiasm and talent.

Long before online marketplaces made handmade crafts popular, Florence was creating and selling her work at local craft shows. Some of her happiest memories were made attending those shows alongside her sisters, Mary Ann and Esther. Together they shared their creativity, enjoyed the friendships they formed, and celebrated the success that came from their hard work and artistic talents. Those experiences remained among Florence's most cherished memories.

If there was one thing that captured Florence's spirit perfectly, it was her love of holidays, especially Christmas.

Christmas at Florence's home was not simply celebrated; it was experienced. Over the years she amassed a collection of more than 1,000 Santa Claus figurines from around the world, transforming her home into a magical Christmas wonderland. Family, friends, neighbors, and visitors eagerly looked forward to seeing her displays each year. Her home radiated warmth, joy, and holiday spirit, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

Florence was also known for creating imaginative family games and traditions that made every gathering special. One favorite was her famous game of throwing marshmallows into Santa's sleigh, which delighted her grandchildren and brought laughter to everyone who participated. She had a gift for turning ordinary moments into unforgettable memories and ensuring that every family celebration felt magical.

One of the greatest blessings of Florence's later years was the community she found among her neighbors and friends at The Fairways at Vandegrift in Middletown. These friendships became an important and treasured part of her life. She valued the companionship, kindness, laughter, and support they shared through the years. Her neighbors became like extended family, and the sense of community they created brought her comfort, happiness, and lasting friendship. Florence's family is deeply grateful for the love and care shown to her by her Fairways friends.

Florence will be remembered for her creativity, generosity, warmth, humor, and her remarkable ability to make others feel welcome and loved. She created beautiful things with her hands, but her greatest creation was the lifetime of memories she made with family and friends. Through her traditions, her artistry, her kindness, and her love, she left an enduring mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

While her family mourns her passing, they find comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind, the traditions she established, and the love she so generously shared throughout her life.

Florence Teresa (Namiotkiewicz) Lawler will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

"Perhaps the greatest legacy one can leave is not found in things, but in the memories, traditions, and love that live on in the hearts of those left behind."

Arrangements entrusted to Szpindor-Meyers Funeral Home

Condolences may be made by visiting www.meyersfh.com