Lena (Fleming) Deemer, a lifelong resident of New Castle, died at home on November 17, 2021. Born in New Castle on September 4, 1921, she celebrated her 100th birthday at her home, the Terry House, on September 4, 2021.
After graduating from William Penn High school, she earned a BS in Chemistry from the University of Delaware, and went on to get a MS in Chemistry and Mathematics from the University of Wisconsin. After completing her academic studies, she worked at the Philadelphia Naval Yard during World War II, and as an anatomy instructor at the University of Pennsylvania medical school. In 1950, she started work as a chemist in the Carothers Research Laboratory of E.I. DuPont de Nemours, retiring in 1977.
She married her high school sweetheart, Buddy Scranton Deemer in 1945. In 1949, they purchased the Hermitage, on the outskirts of New Castle, and spent much of their lives restoring the old farmhouse, which was destroyed by fire in February 2007.
In 2001 Lena purchased the Terry House at 130 Delaware Street, where she lived, operating it as a bed and breakfast until her death. A talented pianist, she played in a jazz band in her youth, and enjoyed entertaining guests at the Terry House and at the Arsenal restaurant. Her granddaughter Shereen will take over management of the Terry House.
She is survived by her son, Selden Scranton Deemer, and her granddaughter, Shereen Deemer.
Due to the Covid pandemic, a memorial service will not be held until spring, 2022.