It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Elizabeth Lee Dickens, "Betty," age 83, of Bear, DE. She passed away surrounded by her family on December 5th, 2025. Born in South River, NJ, Betty was the daughter of the late Elizabeth (Appleby) and Leon Chando. She graduated from South River High School and received her bachelor's degree from the University of Delaware.

A dietician by training, Betty served as the Supervisor of Nutrition for the Red Clay School District.  She was the past president of Delaware School Nutrition Association, a member of the Delaware Association of School Administrators and a longtime member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She grew up vacationing in Seaside Park, NJ, and later enjoyed spending time traveling around the world.  Her most favorite vacations were spent with family and friends at the beach and in the Virginia mountains.

Betty was a strong, resilient woman who faced many obstacles in her life, yet persevered with remarkable tenacity and grace. She cherished time spent with a close-knit circle of friends known as "the Village," with whom she shared countless hours and memories. Above all, her most treasured blessings in life were her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She loved them deeply and shared a special bond with each one of them.  Her absence leaves a profound void in our hearts, and she will be dearly missed.

In her last act of kindness, Betty selflessly chose to become an organ donor through the Gift of Life, hoping her gift would allow someone else to live on.

Betty is survived by her children, Michael Dickens (Karen), Dawn Shutak (Dave), and Kim Givens; her grandchildren, Mackenzie Cannoy (Charlie), David Shutak (Hailey), Olivia Shutak (Billy), Caitlin Dowd (Chris), Ryan Givens, Riley Givens (Kenna), and Jesse Dickens (Kayla); and her great-grandchildren, Graylon and Kylan. She is also survived by her sisters, Karen Toht (Mike) and Barbara DeVictor (Richard), along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was predeceased by her parents and her former husband, Roy "Butch" Dickens, son-in-law Daniel Givens and great grandson River Cannoy.

A visitation will be held on Friday December 12th from 5 P.M. to 7 P.M. at the Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Road Wilmington, DE. Funeral services will be held the following morning, Saturday December 13th at 11 A.M. Burial will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Shriners Hospital for Children.