Theresa Mattioni "Tina" Garland

Theresa Mattioni Garland "Tina"

Tina Garland, of Wilmington, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 7, 2012 at the age of 81. A beloved wife, mother and grandmother completed her time with us. She will now take her laugh, humor and wit to a better place.

The daughter of Antoinette and Gabriel Mattioni (both deceased), Tina was born and raised in Avondale, PA. She attended St. Patrick's grade school in Kennett Square, PA and graduated from Kennett Square High School in 1949. After receiving a secretarial associate degree from Goldey College in Wilmington, Tina worked as a Legal Secretary until she married Richard Garland in 1953. She then worked as a secretary at the AVON Company in Newark, DE until Richard was discharged from the U.S. Air Force in 1955.

She and Richard lived in Oak Ridge, TN for four years and returned to DE in late 1959. Tina became a full time Mom and homemaker. Tina also kept busy in church and school activities, working at election polls, bowling, gardening, landscaping, entertaining friends and neighbors, and cooking great meals. Her flower gardens and arrangements were the delight of the neighborhood.

Tina is survived by her loving husband, Richard; son, Jeffrey Garland (Barbara) and daughter, Susan Panchisin (Joseph). She is also survived by her dearly loved grandchildren: Scott Panchisin, Chelsea Panchisin and Sarah Garland. Her sister, Helen Ruffatt and brother Domonic Mattioni are deceased.

Burial arrangements and services will be private. Prayers on her behalf are appreciated. If desired, friends may donate in Tina's memory to Delaware Hospice, 3515 Silverside Rd., Wilmington, DE 19810.

Messages of condolence may be sent to www.mccreryandharra.com