On July 27, 2026 Doris Golembieski-Hornbeck passed away peacefully after a 5-year battle with pancreatic cancer which metastasized to her lungs. Born June 12, 1942 to Allen and Gertrude Turansky, Doris lived in Baltimore where she raised her daughters and enjoyed a successful career at Johns Hopkins University from 1983 to 2010, earning the respect of doctors, coworkers, and patients. She retired as the Program Administrator for Student Affairs after 27 years within the Hopkins system.

Doris fell in love with the Lewes area and after retirement, she bought her home in Oak Crest Farms and began a new life with her husband Wayne. Doris was a member of the Social and Election Committees. She hosted gatherings and developed friendships with neighbors, who nicknamed her the Energizer Bunny.

Doris was active in the Surviving Spouses and Wednesday’s Women’s Social Groups, enjoying outings to concerts and plays. She volunteered at local election sites and was active in the Elks Lodge, receiving the Outstanding Service Commendation, organizing dances for members celebrating birthdays.

Doris was a talented seamstress, sewing prom gowns and altering clothing for family and friends. She enjoyed gardening and tending to her many house plants. She loved spending time with her family and especially enjoyed her relationships with her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and step grandchild, 11 total!

Doris cherished her friends; each relationship was deeply meaningful. She wished to thank all who gave her joy, strength, and courage especially during her extended challenges living with cancer.

Doris is survived by her daughters Angela Wiltse (Butch) and Joanna Riordan (Ryan); granddaughters Cassandra, Alexandra, and Erica; great grandchildren Elizabeth, Aiden, Benjamin, Claire, Patrick, Joshua and Charles; step grandson Michael. Sister Elaine Krus, nephews Joe and Brian, and many cousins. She was predeceased by her husband Wayne Hornbeck.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at Mary Mother of Peace Catholic Church, 30839 Mt. Joy Road, Millsboro, DE.

A celebration of life will follow the services at the Elks Lodge No. 2540 18544 Beaver Dam Rd, Lewes, DE 19958.

Her cremains will rest with Wayne at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Elks Scholarship Fund, supporting educational opportunities for young students.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com