Diane Philips Rector

A shining light was extinguished with the passing of Diane Philips Rector, 77, of Newark, Delaware, on Tuesday, March 28, 2023. She leaves behind her beloved husband, Bob Rector; son and daughter-in-law, Rob and Lisa Rector; sisters Debbe Philips and Carol Stoyack (Joe); brother, Bill Philips (Barb); brother-in-law, Ernie Rector (Sherry); grandchildren, Maya and Nate; nieces and nephews: Shelly Kelley (Adam), Aishley, Garth, Ernie Rector III, Shari Owens, and Aaron Stoyack; a pampered pooch, Stella; and countless woods-dwelling critters who depended on her diligent care and feeding. Born August 2, 1945, Diane was known by all she touched as a woman with boundless empathy, love, and compassion for all living things. She led a life rich with friends, family, and particularly the love of her life for 55 years. She grew up in Wilmington, Delaware, with her parents Frances and Bill, and her siblings Carol, Bill, Debbe, and Sharon. After attending P.S. DuPont High School, she graduated from Goldey Beacom College and worked as a model for the Carol Landrum Modeling Agency. This led to her role as the state’s official “Lottery Lady,” on WHYY-TV in the 1970s, where she would often draw the official numbers nightly. She became a representative of Estee Lauder and later the Clinique company, where she managed the cosmetics department of Strawbridge & Clothier in the Christiana Mall before retiring in 2008. In her retirement, Diane frequently traveled with Bob and friends throughout the U.S. and other countries. She volunteered at her former family farm at Greenbank Mills in Wilmington, Delaware, where she would tend to, and care for the resident sheep, and she was a cheerleader for every event featuring members of her family. To all who met her, Diane was known as someone who loved life, her husband, and her family, and who treated all with compassion and respect. She led her life by demonstrating care, empathy, and concern for all. If one was in the room with Diane, it automatically made them a better person. In his memoir, her brother referred to Diane as “kindness itself.” An avid animal advocate, Diane donated to countless charities, including the ASPCA, MERR Institute, and the Humane Society, among others, as well as established a backyard sanctuary for indigenous wildlife in her neighborhood. An African proverb says that “when a person passes, a school is lost.” Thankfully, Diane had pupils throughout her life who learned from her wisdom, her kindness, and her love, and who will carry on all she taught, so that even if the school is now closed, her lessons live on. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the animal rescue organization of your choice in Diane’s name. To send an online condolence, visit www.stranofeeley.com

Diane Philips Rector

August 2, 1945 - March 28, 2023

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