Delcia Dawn Free

Delcia Dawn Free, 88, went home to be with the Lord on October 15, 2025, surrounded by her loving family in the Salem home she lived in and cherished for 64 years. In true Delcia fashion, she waited until everyone was gathered before peacefully beginning her journey to heaven to reunite with her beloved husband, Eugene, and those who went before her.

Born in Salem to Evan and Bernadine Bankston, Delcia graduated from North Salem High School and spent her life witnessing and embracing nearly a century of change—with grace, humor, and curiosity.

She met Eugene one evening while roller skating, and together they built a beautiful life—starting with just six dollars and growing into a legacy rich with love, laughter, and family.

The heart of her family, Delcia was strong, wise, and endlessly giving. In addition to raising her three children, she raised her sister Claudia from a young age, and became an honorary mother to many more. Her house was always full of warmth, good food, and extra chairs. Her strong spirit and warm personality drew people to her and filled the chairs of her home.

Resourceful and creative, Delcia could fix anything, sew matching outfits, and remove any stain. She never met a stranger and had a way of turning chance encounters into lifelong friendships. Her love knew no bounds.

Delcia was her family’s steady voice of faith and reason—the one everyone called for advice. She often said she walked with God, and her life reflected that truth. To her, no one was ever too lost to be loved.

She is survived by her sister Claudia, three children, 12 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren and numerous more “adopted” children. Delcia will be remembered for her faith, strength, laughter, and boundless love.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Grace Community Church, 4105 Lancaster Dr NE, Salem, Oregon.