Normajean Marie Swiderski

Normajean "Cookie" Swiderski, Age 73, legendary prank-puller, pumpkin-painter, and slot-machine whisperer, appreciator for the greener joys of life, passed away in Delaware, though her heart (and her best stories) always remained in Orange, Massachusetts.
Born on June 25, 1952, Cookie lived a life powered by pure personality. She had a spunky spark that she wielded like a superpower-one moment pulling a prank that left everyone in stitches, the next offering the kind of fierce, generous love that made people feel seen and safe. If Cookie was in the room, you were probably laughing, watching your back, or helping her enhance the scenery with a little herbal inspiration.
Before all the pranks, petals, and pumpkins, Cookie served her country with honor in the United States Army, where she earned the National Defense Service Medal for her active duty during the Vietnam War. Her courage, loyalty, and determination never left her; she simply applied them later to far more dangerous missions like trying to win the jackpot.
A true artist, Cookie was an extraordinary florist and the proud owner of Studio 75 in Orange. Her arrangements weren't just flowers; they were little bursts of joy. And as if crafting beauty in a shop wasn't enough, she also traveled to New England with her beloved Pumpkin Team, painting pumpkins at craft fairs and proving that Halloween was basically her personal season.
She was also a devoted gambler, specifically a master of the one-armed bandit (slot machine). Casinos across the East Coast will surely feel the loss of their most charming (and possibly luckiest) slot enthusiast.
Cookie lived fiercely, loved deeply, and laughed loudly. Her big heart, sharp wit, and unforgettable presence will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know her.
Cookie was predeceased by her father Kelsey Oliver Cook and brother Oliver Kelsey Cook. She is survived by her loving companion Chris Del Percio and her beloved dog Mia; her brother and sister-in-law Andrew Nils & Joanne Cook of Hanover, NH, her daughter Vicenta Carey and her son Joseph Carey; Grandchildren, Greggory & Erika (Linus), Sabrina (Brady), Sage, Leila, Tiger, Lake, Charlie, Cameron, Clarissa and Danielle & Meghan; great grandchildren; Faith, Ryan, Stephen, Brooklyn, Savannah, Jaxon, Camden, Dallas and Nola. Niece and nephews, Diana, Lucian, Lila, Mary, Erik and William.
Funeral services will be held Thursday December 18, 2025, at 6 P.M. at the Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE where friends may call between 5 P.M. to 6 P.M. Burial will be held privately.