Connie Bolds Stanton, age 89, of Newark, Delaware, passed away on June 14, 2026.
Connie was a proud graduate of Purdue University, earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in just three years. Following graduation, she moved to North Carolina to begin her career as an educator. There she met Arnold Stanton, her former husband, who preceded her in death.
After living in the Washington, D.C., area, Connie and her family settled in Delaware, where she devoted more than 30 years to serving others as Executive Director of the Institute for the Development of Human Resources (IDHR), a nonprofit organization dedicated to training and supporting individuals with disabilities.
Connie was tireless in her dedication to IDHR and the people it served. Through her leadership and commitment, the organization made a meaningful difference in the lives of thousands of individuals and their families. Her work reflected her belief in the dignity, potential, and worth of every person.
After retiring at age 70, Connie enjoyed traveling with her longtime partner, Dan Sclefani, who preceded her in death. In her later years, she enjoyed an active social life, in her 55+ community and playing bridge at the Newark Senior Center.
Connie is survived by her two daughters, Valerie Stanton Smith of Wilmington, Delaware, and her partner, Mitchell Rosenzweig; Sharon (“Shay”) Steele and her husband, John S. Steele, III, of Point Pleasant, New Jersey, and her four grandchildren Jack Thomas Smith, Gavin Stanton Shwahla, Kasper Lee Shwahla and Eva Katherine Smith.
In accordance with Connie’s wishes, no formal services will be held.
