Kathleen Resh Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Torbert Funeral Chapels on Jan. 6, 2026.
Kathleen "Kathy" Resh, of Dover, passed away on January 4, 2026. She died peacefully in the comfort of her own home, on her own terms, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. She is now reunited with the love of her life, her late husband, James Samuel "Rat" Resh Sr.
In addition to her husband, Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Florence (McCormick) Nolan, and her brothers, Michael and Peter Nolan. She is survived by her brother, Joe Nolan and her sister, Gail Coverdale.
Kathy was born on September 28, 1946, in New York. She spent most of her life in Delaware and graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1965. She worked for Playtex for 42 years as an accounts payable associate. Kathy and her husband both retired in 2008, with plans to travel and enjoy their time together; however, those plans were cut short when James passed away unexpectedly later that same year. While her life was never the same without him, Kathy did not allow his absence to stop her from living the remainder of her life fully and beautifully.
Kathy devoted herself wholeheartedly to her children and grandchildren, immersing herself in their lives and proudly living vicariously through their accomplishments and adventures. She was tiny but feisty, and no matter the setting, Kathy always managed to fit right in.
Kathy loved watching her grandchildren play little league, going to the casino, and spending time with family at the beach house. She enjoyed treating her loved ones to dinner, celebrating birthdays lavishly, and going on exciting trips. Her adventures included cruises, helicopter rides into the Grand Canyon, parasailing over the ocean, and horseback riding in Hawaii. She especially loved Florida, particularly shelling on Sanibel Island.
She also cherished the quieter moments-her morning coffees with extra cream extra sugar, bi-weekly nail appointments, manicotti dinner nights at DiMeo's, sitting in the sun (or in a sports bar) with a Miller Lite and cigarette in hand, and long phone conversations with her children. Whether the experience was big or small, the common thread was always the same: she shared it with the people she loved most-her family.
Kathy leaves behind her three best friends, also known as her children: Christine (Andy) Zlock, James Resh Jr., and Jill (Jeremy) Candileri. She also leaves behind her five beloved grandchildren: Ashely Resh and her boyfriend, Luke Parker, along with his daughter, Tanner Parker; Jordan Resh and her fiancée, Grant Greenwood; Luis (Tori) Resh, Zach Zlock and his fiancé Paige Sierra, and Drew Zlock.
Kathy's loved ones will forever cherish her legacy of living life fully and fearlessly, and-above all-putting family first. Though she will be missed beyond measure, her family finds comfort in knowing that she and Pop Pop Rat are finally reunited and can now watch over the family they created, together.
We love you more, Mom Mom.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at the convenience the family.