Cornelia O. Borden

Mary Cornelia Borden, 97, died peacefully on Saturday September 12, 2015 at her home in Lewes, Delaware. “Neily” as she was known was born on July 13, 1918 in Washington, D.C. to Raphael Thomas Offutt and Florence Conroy Offutt. She graduated from Richard Montgomery High School and in 1941 she married Paul Fredrick Borden (dec.1984). Neily accompanied him in a Navy career that included assignments in Hawaii, Washington and at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis where they made their home when Capt. Borden retired and became the Anne Arundel County Solicitor.

Neily is survived by her daughters Neily Ann (Al) of Fredericksburg, VA, Mary Dugoski (Jerry) of Odenton, MD, Kathy Zelazny (Mark) of Danville PA, and Robin of Lewes, DE and seven grandchildren and seven great grand children. She was preceded in death by her son, Paul Frederick Borden, Jr.

Neily lived in Annapolis before moving to Crofton with her daughter, Robin. Two years ago, Neily and Robin relocated to Lewes, DE. As a Navy wife, entertaining came naturally to her and she relished a big dinner party with new recipes and a reason to use her collection of sterling silver. She was an active member of Elizabeth Seton Parish and was also involved in bridge clubs and numerous volunteer activities such as Meals on Wheels.

Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were a constant delight. She proudly shared news of their activities and marveled at their adventures.

Neily was known for always wearing a hat and being dressed to the nines. It was rare to see the same hat or perhaps it was the stylish manner that she wore them that made them seem different each time. She loved to play cards including bridge and poker but pitch may have been her favorite. She held her hand and bid shrewdly until a few days before her passing.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday September 17 at Noon at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 1800 Seton Drive, Crofton, Maryland. Visitation hours are from 11:00-12:00 at the church. All are invited to reception immediately afterward in the parish hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to Little Sisters of the Poor and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.