Dorothy Ann Wainwright

Dorothy Ann Wainwright, 91, of Delmar, Maryland, went home to be with the Lord on December 28, 2025, following a brief stay at Delmar Nursing and Rehabilitation in Delmar, Delaware. Ann was born on November 13, 1934, in Seaford, Delaware, to the late Clarence and Sarah Johnson. Ann was known for being strong willed, often stubborn, hardworking, loving and resilient. Ann was a treasured mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose kindness, compassion, and unwavering love were often shown through her actions rather than words. She is survived by her daughter, Christine Smith of Laurel, Delaware; grandchildren Crystal Marks and her husband Jason of Lake Jackson, Texas, Michelle Draper and her husband Edd of Seaford, Delaware, and Shawn Smith and his wife Monet of Laurel, Delaware; great-grandchildren Aidan and Gavin Marks, and Parker and Dalton Smith; daughter-in-law Marguerite Townsend of Salisbury; sister Gloria Mulligan (David); sister-in-law and beloved exercise companion Carol Johnson; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Ann was preceded in death by her loving husband of twenty-two years, Edward J. Wainwright; her beloved son, Mark Townsend; and several brothers and sisters. Ann worked side by side with her husband in many ventures throughout their life together. They traveled extensively training and racing standardbred horses through Wainwright Racing Stables in Delmar, Maryland. Ann proudly traveled countless miles with their prized horse, Shu Shine, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Together, they also operated the State Line Motel and Delmarva Convention Center, where they first met. After Edward’s passing, Ann devoted 29 years to caring for children at Lil Red Hen, where she was lovingly known as “Mom Mom Ann.” She had the rare gift of caring for generations of families and was often considered an honorary member of many households. Her love extended far beyond the nursery, as she frequently traveled to serve as a bonus Mom Mom and trusted babysitter to the families who adored her. In retirement, Ann enjoyed staying active through exercise classes and bingo at the Seaford Senior Center. She was a loyal Baltimore Ravens fan, loved watching the Game Show Network, and could regularly be found happily completing search-a-word puzzles. Above all, she cherished time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and never missed a birthday celebration or family gathering. The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate care team at Delmar Nursing and Rehabilitation for the kindness and dedication they showed Ann during her final months. Ann’s legacy of love, service, and faith will live on through the many lives she touched and the family she so deeply cherished. In honoring Ann’s life, a funeral service will be held at Short Funeral Home, 13 East Grove Street, Delmar, DE on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Noon, following a visitation at the same location starting at 11:00 AM. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar.

Dorothy Ann Wainwright

November 13, 1934 - December 28, 2025