Elizabeth "Liz" Tague

Elizabeth "Liz" Tague, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on February 17, 2025. She was born on January 4, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, to Al and Mary Van de Merlen. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband.

Liz grew up on Long Island and graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset, NY, with the Class of 1960. She began her career as a typist for New York Life, joining the many young women at that time who commuted into Manhattan each day in skirts and high heels. In 1962, she married and embraced life as a devoted mother. As her children grew older, Liz returned to the workforce, with a focus on what she knew best—insurance. Liz joined the Scarborough Agency and worked there for many years as an employee benefits consultant before moving to Marsh. Through sheer determination, intelligence, and an unwavering work ethic, she rose through the ranks, ultimately retiring as a Vice President.

Though Liz took great pride in her professional accomplishments, her greatest joy was her family. She supported her children in every endeavor, from running the concession stand at Nor-Del Baseball Fields to working backstage on costumes for Claymont High School musicals. One of her proudest achievements was her tireless advocacy, alongside her dear friend Judy Foulk, teachers, and administrators, to keep Claymont High School open when it was at risk of closing. Armed with analytical skills and a sharp sense of strategy, Liz played a key role in preserving the school for several more years.

Liz was known for her quick wit, boundless love, and deep devotion to her family. Though she readily admitted she wasn’t fond of cooking, she made an exception for her famous "Mema’s Spaghetti," a cherished recipe she passed down to her grandchildren. She mastered every new social media platform to stay connected with them, ensuring she was always present in their lives. Each grandchild received a handmade baby sweater knit with love by their Mema, and she even tucked some away for future generations. She was a fun, sometimes mischievous grandmother, and she was adored by each of her grandchildren.

Liz is survived by her loving children, Maureen Tague Paschal (Jonathan Paschal) of Charlotte, NC, and Michael Tague (Susan Bainbridge Tague) of Villanova, PA; her six cherished grandchildren, Christopher Paschal, Brendan Paschal, Patrick Paschal, Ryan Tague, Kathryn Tague, and Caroline Paschal; and her beloved siblings, John Van de Merlen, Kathy Durner, Tom Van de Merlen, and JoAnn Pilger.

A private family gathering will be held in her memory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Claymont Community Center, honoring Liz’s dedication to her community.  

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