Carolyn "Lyn" Newsom

Carolyn Clark "Lyn" Newsom, age 79, of Wilmington, DE, passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from complications during a scheduled procedure at Christiana Hospital.

Born in South River, NJ in 1946, she was the eldest of four children of the late Robert Charles and Carolyn Marie (Appleby) Clark. Lyn attended Penn State University, where she earned a master's degree in education and was an ardent fan of the Nittany Lions. In college she served as president of her sorority and later became president of the National Science Olympiad and Junior League, roles that reflected her natural gift for leadership and community. She was a dedicated science teacher, first at Brandywine High School and later at Concord High School, where she taught for many years. Lyn received numerous accolades throughout her career, including being named Teacher of the Year, which gave her the opportunity to visit the White House and meet multiple presidents.

Outside of her professional career, Lyn was the proud mother of one son, Brad. As a truly devoted parent she cherished him throughout her life and would do anything for him. As a single mother, she overcame many challenges while advancing in her career and remaining active in the community through the Junior League, the Episcopal Church, book club and other local organizations.

She is survived by her son, Bradley Clark Newsom (Rebecca Northrop); her siblings Robert Clark, Parma Clark, and Beverly Zehr; and step-grandchildren Jacob, Casey, and Kelly Orledge from Brad's previous marriage to Carol Morrison.

A celebration of life will begin at 2 pm on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Christ Church Christiana Hundred, 505 East Buck Road, Wilmington, DE. Interment will be held privately in Old Tennent Cemetery in New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to Science Olympiad charity by clicking here.