MaryJane Wilkins

MaryJane (D'Elia) Wilkins passed away on October 17, 2025, with her loving family by her side. She was born on January 10, 1934, in Middletown, CT to Michael D'Elia and Nora (D'Amico) D'Elia. MaryJane grew up in Middletown and graduated from Middletown High School in 1952. MaryJane married her high school sweetheart, Silas Wilkins on July 10, 1954, in Middletown. They were happily married for 63 years. MaryJane worked at Rapidprint for 25 years, where she made many lifelong friendships. After retirement, she became the Queen of the local chapter of The Red Hats. They made many day trips to social events, and her highlight was meeting Scott Haney of Channel 3 News. However, meeting Engelbert Humperdinck with her daughters was a dream come true. MaryJane loved to take long rides on Sundays to visit and discover local adventures; a tradition she carried forward with her daughters up until a few months ago. MaryJane had many lifelong friends. She was a second mother to many of her children's friends and that continued until her passing. MaryJane was always excited for her yearly Christmas party with family and friends. MaryJane is survived by her daughter, Deborah Pullum of Middletown, son, Gary Wilkins of Middletown, daughter, Michele Palmieri of Cromwell, Eight Grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild and many cousins whom she loved dearly. MaryJane was predeceased in death by her husband, Silas Wilkins, parents, Michael and Nora D'Elia , daughter, Danette Marino, sons-in-law Michael Marino, Michael Pullum, daughter-in-law, Rosemary (Fazzino) Wilkins, great-grandchildren Lorenzo and Tatiana Cruz and her beloved dogs Bingo and Angel A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 23rd, at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown, with the burial following at St. Sebastian's Cemetery, Rockfall. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, October 22nd, from 6 – 8 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, we ask for donations to St Jude Children's Research Hospital or The American Kidney Foundation.