It's always hard to say goodbye to a loved one, but today we say goodbye to our beloved Justine Florczyk, age 88, of Ocean View, who passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2026, with her beloved daughter and caregiver by her side.

Justine was born in Wilmington on June 15, 1937, daughter of the late Edward Palivoda, Sr. and the late Genevieve (Kupis) Palivoda. She was a graduate of St. Paul's Commercial Business High School in Wilmington, Delaware. She had a successful career in the films division of ICI Americas Inc. in Delaware and retired from the Hopewell Plant in Virginia.

Justine had such a zest for life. As "Peaches" the professional clown, she brought joy to countless corporate and children's parties through her talented face painting, balloon art, juggling, and magic performances. She kept active throughout her life and, in her younger years, enjoyed creating stained glass lamps and oil painting. Justine also loved surf fishing, dancing, walking the Bethany Boardwalk, kayaking into her 70s, and playing her newfound love of pickleball until she was 81.

Justine was the former Queen Mother of the Beach Babes Red Hat Society chapter and frequently hosted pool parties for the ladies of the society. She also volunteered with the Ocean City Line Dancers, performing in shows during Ocean City Sunfest. Justine spent many winters in Florida, where she treasured time with family and friends.  She was a volunteer at the Cheer Center and delivered meals for Meals on Wheels for many years.  Justine was also a longtime member of St. Ann's Catholic Church in Bethany Beach.

Justine's friends always knew that if she was around, there would be fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Michael Florczyk, in 1985; her brother, Edward "Jack" Palivoda, Jr.; and her sister, Bernice E. Nowicki.

Justine is survived by her daughter and caregiver, Kathy Florczyk and her fiancé, Clifton Brittingham; and by her nieces and nephews: Robin Nowicki, Karen Parisi, Diane Chase, Jeff Nowicki, Lorane Clark, and Glenn Nowicki.

The family sincerely appreciates all of the love and care shown to Justine by Compassionate Care Hospice, especially her nurse, Nicole.

Services will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Justine's name to the Alzheimer's Association by visiting www.alz.org or Mothers Against Drunk Driving by visiting www.madd.org