Obituary published on Legacy.com by Gardner Funeral Home, Runnemede on Mar. 30, 2026.
Marian Lucas, 65, of
Newark, Delaware, passed away on March 24, 2026, in Sewell, New Jersey, surrounded by loved ones.
Marian was born on February 27, 1961, in
Mount Holly, New Jersey. When she was young, her family moved to Runnemede, where she grew up alongside her five siblings. She later raised her children in Glendora and eventually made her home in Delaware.
Marian was a loving and resilient woman-a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend-whose warmth, humor, and strength left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.
In her younger years, Marian was an exceptional athlete and a standout pitcher for Triton High School's softball team. She finished her high school career with an impressive 50-5 record and threw a no-hitter. Her talent, determination, and ability to perform under pressure made her a true leader on the field.
She began her career at American Appliance, where she became known for handling even the most difficult situations with patience and grace. After the company unexpectedly closed in 2001, Marian took a new path, pursuing education in medical billing and coding. That journey ultimately led her to a career in education, where she found her true calling.
She later worked at a career training school before joining the School of Nursing at the University of Delaware in 2012. There, Marian became an integral part of the program. She had a gift for helping students navigate challenges, often going above and beyond to ensure their success. Faculty, staff, and students alike loved her-not just for what she did, but for how she made them feel. She had a way of "making things happen," always with humor and genuine care for others.
Outside of work, Marian found joy in life's simple moments. She loved spending time with her family, cheering on the Phillies and the Eagles, playing pool, relaxing by the pool, reading, and crocheting beautiful blankets-especially for her grandson, Liam, who brought her endless joy. She was known for her quick wit and silliness, and for making people laugh even in difficult moments. She was easy to talk to, never judgmental, and always made others feel understood and cared for.
Through every stage of life, Marian remained a steady and loving presence, creating a home filled with humor, support, and unconditional love for her children, Jamie and John, and her beloved grandson, Liam.
More than anything, Marian was defined by her love for her family. She was a constant-someone who showed up, stayed strong, and never turned her back on the people she loved. Even through life's challenges, she carried herself with resilience, humor, and heart.
Marian is survived by her daughter, Jamie Rohm (Billy); her son, John Koch IV; her two step-granddaughters; her beloved grandson, Liam Rohm; her sisters, Deborah Crowell (Sunny), Kathleen Kelly (Barry), and Mary Green (Robert); her brothers, Robert Lucas (Deborah) and Joseph Lucas (Penny); as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary (Kemble) and Robert Lucas.
A public visitation will be held on April 10, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Gardner's Funeral Home in
Runnemede, New Jersey.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marian's memory to Limen Recovery & Wellness (https://www.limenrecovery.org/donate/), a cause close to her heart.
Marian will be remembered for her humor, her strength, and the way she made people feel loved. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the family she cherished so deeply.