Obituaries

02/08/10

Winfield Weldon Harper -- Winfield Weldon Harper, 98, died at his home in Seaford on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2010, with his family by his side. Born on the fourth of July in 1911 in Hurlock, Md., he was the son of the late W. Walton Harper and Nettie Trice Harper. He was preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter, Cynthia Diane Spicer. Weldon attended Hurlock High School and what is now known as Goldey-Beacom College. He met and, in 1934, married the love of his life, Margaret Stewart Harper. During their 75 years together, Weldon worked at Citizens Bank, City Service Oil Company and DuPont Company before a lengthy career in construction. He was a partner with Webb and Turner, Taylor and Harper and Harper and Harper and was involved in numerous construction projects including many area schools, motels in Ocean City and the development of Holly Shores near Seaford.ﾠ Weldon was a member of the Seaford Lions Club, Tall Cedars of Lebanon and the Choptank Lodge No. 138, A.F. & A.M., which awarded him a 70 year service award. He was a member of St. Johns United Methodist Church and the Seaford Golf and Country Club where he enjoyed rounds of golf with his friends. In later years, he enjoyed Saturday drives to Hurlock as he reminisced about his childhood. Weldon is survived by his wife Margaret; daughter, Diane Spicer and her husband Maynard; son, Bill Harper and wife Nancy; granddaughters, Lisa Spicer and her husband Ken Davis, Leigh Ann Parks and her husband Frank, Kim McConnell and her husband James; and grandson, Will Harper and his wife Yvonne. He also leaves behind 11 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild who all lovingly called him Pop-pop. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 11, at Cranston Funeral Home in Seaford, where friends may call one hour before the service. Pastor Christopher Pennington will officiate. Interment will follow at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Seaford. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.


Felix William Jones -- Felix William Bill Jones, 69, of Blades, died Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2010, at home. Born in Trenton, N.J., he was the son of Marian G. and Felix J. Jones. He graduated from Trenton Public Schools and college. Bill served with the U.S. Air Force. He resided in Windsor, N.J., for 35 years until retirement when he moved to Blades. He was employed by Hagens Recording Studio in Princeton, N.J., for 40 years. He was past commander of Trenton Falls Power Squadron. Bill earned a full certificate and 35 merit marks. He was also an avid sailor. Bill is survived by his wife, Norma P. Jones; two daughters, Melissa Molino of Hopewell, N.J. and Heather Ketch and her husband Jeffrey Ketch of Yardley, Pa.; a granddaughter, Morgan Molino of Hopewell, N.J.; a brother, Robert Jones of Oro Valley, Ariz.; two nieces; and one nephew. Private funeral services will be held at a later date in New Jersey. Memorial donations may be sent to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International (JDRF), 14th Floor, New York, NY 10004 or www.jdrf.org.


James Brown Clements -- James B. Clements, 85, of Seaford, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2010, in the Health Center of the Methodist Manor House. He was born on Nov. 20, 1924, in Crumpton, Md., the son of the late David Alday Clements Sr. and L. Virginia Clements. He moved to Milford at an early age, graduating from Milford High School as salutatorian in 1942 at age 17. He entered the University of Delaware in September 1942 and the Armed Forces in April 1943. He served for the next three years in the U.S. Army Signal Corps in the Philippines, where he specialized in telephone and communications installation and repair. Mr. Clements returned to the University of Delaware in 1947 and graduated in 1949 with a BS in Chemical Engineering. He was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity, serving as vice president of the Interfraternity Council. He was also a member of Tau Beta Pi (honorary fraternity). Upon graduation, he worked as a safety engineer for Proctor & Gamble in Baltimore, Md. from 1949 to 1954. Mr. Clements worked as a salesman for Bird & Son, Inc. in Dover from 1954 until 1963, when he started a successful real estate career with a partner in Sudlersville, Md. Stafford & Clements, Inc. specialized in the sale of farms and residential properties. He retired from real estate in 1989. In 1953, he met and married the love of his life, Marjorie Anne McKnight, of Cambridge, Md. Together they raised five children in Sudlersville, where he instilled in them a love of barbershop music. His loves were fishing, coin collecting, playing golf and spending time with his family, but most importantly he loved to sing. Jim Clements loved barbershop music, from his early years when he started a quartet in high school, to when he created the 4Cs barbershop quartet with his children. He was a member of the Bayside Chorus in Centreville, Md., and later with the First State Harmonizers in Milford. Mr. Clements was an active member of the Sudlersville Lions Club where he served as president, and in 2001 was honored by the Lions Club International Foundation with the Melvin Jones Fellow award, the highest award a member Lion can receive for dedicated humanitarian services. He was also an active member of Sudlersville United Methodist Church for over 30 years, serving as both the youth and adult choir director. He also served on the building and finance committees. Mr. Clements retired to Seaford in 1996 with his wife, where he entered the Methodist Manor House. There he became active again, serving as a director for the PUMH Foundation. He and his wife are also members of Mt. Olivet United Methodist Church in Seaford. Mr. Clements is survived by his wife of 56 years, Marjorie McKnight Clements of Seaford; two daughters, Ruth Anne Clements Rosen and her husband Alan of Jerusalem, Israel and Elizabeth Clements of Dover; three sons, David Alday Clements II and his wife Evan Richardson of Asheville, N.C., Robert McKnight Clements and his wife Joanne of Tampa, Fla. and James William Clements and his wife Stacy of Swarthmore, Pa.; 13 grandchildren, Shoshana Leah Rosen, Tzvia Rosen, Noam Dov Rosen, Rina Rosen; Wesley Clements, Lila Richardson; Robert Clements II, Jonathan Clements; Savana Clements; and Logan Clements, Hart Clements, Luke Clements, Hunter Clements. He is also survived by three sisters, Margaret Ann Jones of Milford, Ruth Lingo of Millsboro and Ethel Mayhew of Bear. He was predeceased by three brothers, David A. Clements Jr., Charles M. Clements and William B. Clements; and one sister, Katherine Clements Williams. A musical celebration of Jims life will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 17, in the Fellowship Hall at the Methodist Manor House. Friends may call on the family at 1 p.m. A private interment will be held in Chestertown, Md. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Benevolence Fund, Methodist Manor House, 1001 Middleford Road, Seaford, DE 19973.


Robert T. Murphy -- Robert T. Murphy, 89, of Eldorado, Md., passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010, at his home. He was born on May 24, 1920, in Oak Grove, the son of the late Alonzo and Fronia Murphy. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ida Morean Murphy, of 64 years. ﾠ He was a member of Eldorado United Methodist Church and attended Brookview United Methodist Church. He was a charter member of the Eldorado-Brookview Volunteer Fire Company serving his community for 62 years which included serving as past chief for over 20 years, past president, a trustee and chief engineer. ﾠﾠﾠ He had worked for J.W. Hallowell Chevrolet in Federalsburg, Md. for over 20 years as a front end alignment specialist. In the 1970s, he opened his own business, Murphys Garage, Inc., in Eldorado and his youngest son Mark joined the business in 1977. He is survived by three children, Robert A. Murphy and his wife Rose of Eldorado, Gale Banks of Seaford and Mark K. Murphy and his wife Traci of Eldorado; five grandchildren, Brad Murphy, J.B. Murphy, Amber Gabel, Clint Murphy and Shelby Murphy; and five great-grandchildren, Jacob, Emma, Nate, Noah and Landon. He was also preceded in death by five sisters. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 15, at Framptom Funeral Home, P.A. in Federalsburg, with the Rev. Delmer Willey ﾠofficiating. Friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday, Jan. 14, from 7 to 9 p.m. and from 1 to 2 p.m. on Friday. ﾠ Interment will follow at Eldorado Cemetery in which he will be transported to the cemetery on a 1954 American Fire Truck that he originally drove from the factory in Michigan in 1954. Serving as pallbearers will be Brad Murphy, J.B. Murphy, Clint Murphy, Donnie White, Dale Collins and Alan Collins; honorary pallbearers will be Amber Gabel and Shelby Murphy. Memorial contributions may be made to Eldorado Brookview Volunteer Fire Company, 5752 Rhodesdale-Eldorado Road, Rhodesdale, MD 21659 or to Brookview United Methodist Church, c/o Ralph White, 6015 Lone Pine Road, Rhodesdale, MD 21659. Share memories with the family at www.framptom.com.


Agnes Ellis Porches -- Agnes Ellis Porches, 83, of Seaford, died Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010, at her residence. Born in Blades, she was the daughter of the late Florence Outten and John Ellis. She was retired from theﾠWoolworth Store in Seaford where she was cashier manager. Agnes was a member of Woodland United Methodist Church in Woodland. She is survived by her husband, Chester Harold Porches Sr.; a son, Chester H. Porches Jr. of Seaford; two daughters, Nancy Vanderford of Montgomery, Ala. and Rebecca Peterson of Seaford; a brother, Robert Ellis of Seaford; seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 18, at Woodland United Methodist Church. The Rev. Richard J. Bridge will officiate. Arrangements are by Watson-Yates Funeral Home, Seaford.


Patricia Hastings Jones -- Patricia Hastings Jones, 61 years young, of Dagsboro, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, Jan. 10, 2010. ﾠ Patricia was a leap year baby, born Feb. 29, 1948. She was the daughter of the late Clyde and Bessie Hastings and grew up in Seaford. ﾠﾠ Patsy married Henry Wilson in 1967, and together they had a daughter, Amy, who was the light of Patricias life from beginning to end. ﾠ Patricia is best described as an angel on Earth as she possessed a kind and thoughtful nature that seemed nearly beyond capability. She touched so many lives through her caring way, her bright smile and her devoted faith. ﾠ Patsy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, employee and friend whose positive energy was as infectious as it was genuine.ﾠ But by far, Patsys greatest love was her family, which was made even better by her marriage to her husband, Bud, in 2000. Patricia and Bud shared a special love that was one of her greatest blessings during her lifetime. Together, they enjoyed many of lifes pleasures in each others company, usually laughing, holding hands and smiling with contented love.ﾠ Visiting loved ones near and far was their calling, and they shared their love generously with all of their family members. Their home at Cripple Creek Country Club was another source of much enjoyment and entertainment among dear friends, usually playing golf or trivia after dinner with friends. These wonderful times shared with Bud were a true blessing and provided much happiness for both of them. ﾠ Patricia was a devoted member of the Christian faith and volunteered her talent and abilities fully. She was a past Vestry member at St. Marthas Episcopal Church in Bethany Beach, and served as an altar guild member, reader and greeter until her death. ﾠ Patricias life was full of love and devotion. She truly lived every day to the fullest, finding great happiness and inner peace in helping others. Patricia will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her, and we look forward to seeing her again in Heaven. Patsy is survived by her loving husband of nine years, Alfred Bud Jones of Dagsboro. Patsy is also survived by her daughter, Amy McGee and her husband David of Vero Beach, Fla.; her brothers, Clyde T. Hastings Jr. of Dover and Charles Chuck Hastings and his wife Trina of Seaford; son-in-law, Michael Jones and his wife Christy of Charlotte, N.C.; daughter-in-law, Nancy Watts and her husband Doug of Ellicott City, Md; grandchildren, J.D., Aaron, Molly and Abigail McGee of Vero Beach, Dylan and Tyler Jones of Charlotte and Cole, Kyle, Cooper and Kevin Watts of Ellicott City; nephews, Ryan, Seth and Colby Hastings of Seaford and Brent Hastings of Dover; niece, April Meyer of Dover; and several great- nieces and great-nephews. Patricia also dearly loved, and is survived by her God-son, Brian Bozzone of Newark. The family will receive friends at her viewing from 5 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 17, at Union United Methodist Church, Bridgeville. A Celebration of Life for Patricia will be held at the same church at 10 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 18, with her burial following the service.ﾠ Flowers will be appreciated or contributions may be made to the Susan G. Komen 3-Day Fight for the Cure for Breast Cancer Awareness at 800-996-3329, or a contribution may be made to St. Marthas Episcopal Church, 117 Maplewood St., Bethany Beach, DE 19930.


George P. Simon -- George P. Simon, 74, of Laurel, died Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2010, at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital in Seaford. He was born July 19, 1935, in Woodbridge, N.J., a son of the late John and Margaret Kemeny Simon. George was a member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Delmar. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1956, where he was stationed on the USS Plymouth Rock and the USS Ashland. He was a life member of the Delmar VFW, Post 8276 and a member and past president of the USS Ashland Association. He retired as a supervisor at E.I. DuPont in Seaford after 30 years of service. After retirement, he spent five years selling real estate for Cooper Realty and Ellis Realty in Seaford. He rarely missed a morning having coffee at the Oasis Truck Stop in Laurel with his many old DuPont friends and many friends from the area. George loved the outdoors and enjoyed working in his flower garden. He was good with his hands and was able to build or fix almost anything. He was past president and show coordinator of the Milford Coin Club and enjoyed the thrill of buying and selling rare coins on eBay in his spare time. He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara J. Simon; three sons, Michael Simon and Bruce Simon, both of Laurel, and Paul Simon and his wife, Cherie of Salisbury, Md.; four grandchildren, Ashley Simon, Michael Ray Jones-Simon, Chelsea Simon and Allyson Simon; a sister, Barbara Foldi of Fords, N.J.; and aﾠsister-in-law, Rose Simon of Woodbridge.ﾠ In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, John Simon. A visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, Jan. 18, from 9 to 10:45 a.m., at Short Funeral Home in Delmar, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Delmar. Following the Mass, all are invited to join the family for a time of food and fellowship at the Delmar VFW, 200 W. State St., Delmar.ﾠInterment with military honors will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 19, at the Delaware Memorial Veterans C Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Philip and Barbara Long Parish Center, 514 Camden Lane, Salisbury, MD 21801. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.shortfh.com.


Ernest M. Adkins -- Ernest M. Adkins, 87, of Georgetown, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Willards, Md., a son of the late E. Roland Adkins and Birdie Beachump Adkins. He retired after 30 years of service with E.I. DuPont in Seaford as a small instrument mechanic. He proudly served his country in the United States Army Air Force were he was a sergeant in the 313th Bomb Squadron. Ernest was a 60 year member of the American Legion Post #19 of Laurel, where he served in many capacities on the board. Cherished family memories include his love of bowling, woodworking and watching the Orioles' baseball games. Mr. Adkins is survived by a daughter, Sue Adkins Hart of Laurel; ﾠa brother, Sandy Adkins and wife Debbie of Salisbury; grandchildren, Laurie Adkins Bireley and husband Todd of Delmar and Bethany Adkins Larmore and husband John; great-grandchildren, Michael Bireley, Christopher Bireley and Alex Larmore; daughter-in-law, Mary Lee Adkins; his devoted companion, Lois Adkins; his cat, Buddy; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, William Butch Adkins and a sister, Dorothy Ann Farlow. A funeral service will be held at Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home in Laurel at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 20, where a viewing will be held one hour before the service. Pastor Mike Rittenhouse will officiate. Interment will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery in Laurel, where he will receive full military honors. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963


James T. "Toby" Foskey -- James T. Toby Foskey, 77, of Laurel, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2010. He was born in Laurel, a son of the late Luther and Mabel Foskey. After graduation from Laurel High School in 1952, Toby proudly served his country in the United States Navy for four years aboard the USS Mindoro CVE120 during the Korean War. He later worked for All American Engineering in Georgetown. He then retired from the United Postal Service in May 1987 after 32 years of service.ﾠ His passion was his church, St. Philips Episcopal in Laurel where he served as the lay leader in 1964, and numerous other positions. He was most proud of the Toby Foskey Childrens Chapel which he built in the church. Among a few, he did enjoy fishing, hunting, photography and was extremely active in Laurel sports.ﾠ His most important hobby was his cherished family. He is survived by his wife, Jane Foskey of Laurel; his daughters, Jennifer Schweitzer and husband Alan of Laurel and Cathy Beth Hastings and husband Brad of Laurel; sister, Pearl Brubaker and husband Lloyd of Salisbury, Md. and Martha Ashcraft and husband Art of Florida; his grandchildren, Beth Tyler and husband Chris, Amanda Payne, David Hastings and Jessica Payne; and a great-grandson, Toby Tyler. A Celebration of his life will be held at St. Philips Episcopal Church, Laurel, at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 24, where a visitation will be held in the Parish Hall one hour before the service. The Rev. Dr. Howard Backus will officiate. Interment will follow in the churchs Columbarium. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to St. Philips Episcopal Church, 600 S. Central Ave., Laurel, DE 19956 or Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963. Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home in Laurel is serving the Foskey family. ﾠ


Robert W. Lewis -- Robert W. Lewis, 89, of Delmar, passed away at his home on Monday, Jan. 18, 2010, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Whaleysville, Md., a son of the late Isaac and Helen Lewis. He was self-employed, previously owning a disposal business. Mr. Lewis was an extremely hard worker who loved to garden in his spare time. Robert is survived by sons, Tony Lewis of Pennslyvania, Jimmy Cooper of Laurel and Bobby Lewis of Delmar; his daughters, Mildred Price of Laurel, Mary Ann Rogers of Salisbury, Md., Barbara Hitchens of Laurel, Becky Madden of Dagsboro Helen Crooper of Laurel, Diana Bailey of Salisbury and Angela Cunningham of Seaford; a brother, Morris Lewis of Millsboro; a sister, Edda Morris of Laurel; several grandchildren, great and great great; and many nieces and nephews.ﾠ He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Lewis; a son, Butch Lewis; brothers, Dale, Thomas and Elmer Lewis; a sister, Mary Lewis; and son-in-law, Wayne Price. The funeral service will be held at Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Fuenral Home, Laurel, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 23, where a viewing will be held one hour before the service. The Rev. Donald Murray will officiate. Interment will follow in Laurel Hill Cemetery.


Grayson S. Hurley III Grayson S. Hurley III, of Seaford, died Friday, January 15, 2010. He was 47. Grayson was born in Cambridge, MD on October 9, 1962, to Jeanie Gore Hurley and the late Grayson S. Hurley Jr. Besides his father he was preceded in death by his grandparents, Grayson Sr. and Gladys Hurley, and a brother, Christopher Hurley. He is survived by his wife Cathy Cook Hurley; two sons, Jesse and Dillon Hurley of Laurel; a daughter, Jenna Elizabeth Hurley of Seaford; and a step-son, Christopher Boyce of Laurel. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 23, at 2 p.m. at Cokesbury UMC, west of Seaford near Reliance. Friends may call one hour prior to the service. Interment will be held at adjoining cemetery. Arrangements are by Fleischauer Funeral Home, Greenwood.


Howard Lee Allison -- Howard Lee Chick Allison, 77, of Laurel, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Friday, Jan. 22, 2010. He was born in Laurel, a son of the late Roger and Maggie Allison. Chick was a self-employed painter. Cherished memories include his love of family, bowling, golfing and playing cards with friends. Chick is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Edna; son, Gary Allison and wife Cinda of Bridgeville; daughters, Connie Massey of Laurel and Janet Morgan and husband David of Laurel; brothers, Johnny Allison of Berlin, Md. and Henry Lee Allison of Dagsboro; sisters, Florence Reihms of Smyrna, Helen Mitchell of North Carolina and Sandra Cain of Laurel. He is also survived by six grandchildren, Kimberly Allison, Kristen Allison, Maureen Allison, Brooks Massey, Allison Hastings and her husband Keith Marc Morgan and five great-grandchildren, Brian Lane Jr., Cassie Lane, Zachary Flynn, Morgan Hastings and Sidney Hastings. A funeral service will be held at Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home, Laurel, on Thursday, Jan. 28, at 2 p.m. Friends may call one hour before the service. The Rev. Wayne Grier will officiate. Interment will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery in Laurel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent in Mr. Allisons name to: Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.


Mary Belle Phillips -- Mary Belle Phillips, 81, of Laurel, passed away at the Methodist Manor House in Seaford, on Friday, Jan. 22, 2010, surrounded by her loving family. She was a daughter of the late Robert and Lillie Duncan and Oliver and Evelyn Givans. She was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother who devoted her life to her family and her church. She graduated from Hebron High School in 1945 and Beacom College where, upon graduation, she became the secretary to the president of the college. On May 22, 1948, Mary Belle married Woodrow "Woody" Phillips, who would be her devoted husband of 59 years, until his death in November of 2007. After the wedding, she moved to Laurel and became the secretary for the president of Sussex Trust Bank. ﾠ She was very active at Portsville United Methodist where she was a Sunday school teacher and a member of the United Methodist Women. She was a member of the Century Club and enjoyed mentoring the children in Laurel schools for several years. Mary Belle is survived by her five children, Scott Phillips of Georgetown, Jayne Gordy of Laurel, Chris Phillips of Delray Beach, Fla., Vance Phillips of Laurel and Susan Lloyd of Moore, S.C. She is also survived by 22 grandchildren, two great-granddaughters and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Woodrow "Woody" Phillips, her parents and her eight brothers and one sister. A funeral service will be held at Portsville United Methodist Church Portsville, at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 26, where a viewing will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Interment will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Laurel. Memorials may be made to Portsville United Methodist Church in c/o Karen Hughes, 30950 Dogwood Dr., Laurel, DE 19956 or to the Methodist Manor House Employee Appreciation Fund, 1001 Middleford Road, Seaford, DE 19973. ﾠ Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home is serving the Phillips family. ﾠ


John E. Sullivan -- John E. Sullivan, 85, a faithful, loving husband and father, died Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010, at his home in Seaford. Mr. Sullivan was born on March 10, 1924, in Syracuse, N.Y. He was the youngest of four children. The family moved to Manhattan, N.Y., and then to the Bronx. He served honorably in World War II with the 89th Chemical Mortar Battalion in the European theater. Upon his return, he married Eleanor Perry of the Bronx, following his military discharge. He worked at A.K. Allen until his retirement in 1995. Mr. Sullivan is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Eleanor; three sons; two daughters; and 18 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by one brother, other relatives and many friends. A memorial service will be held at noon on Wednesday, Jan. 28, at Cranston Funeral Home in Seaford. Interment with military honors will follow at Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro.


Joseph D. Jackson -- Joseph Dennis Jackson, 59, of Seaford, died Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010, at his home. Born in Milford, he was the son of the late Alda Street and Clarence Jackson. He was a diesel mechanic for Perdue before retiring. He was a Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War, and a member of Nanticoke Post 6 American Legion in Seaford. He is survived by his wife, Donna Messick Jackson; a son, Phillip Messick and wife Kristy of Bridgeville; three granddaughters, Emily Cutshaw, Julia Messick and Alivia Messick, all of Bridgeville; his father-in-law, William Davis of Seaford; an aunt, Rachel Jackson of Rehoboth Beach; a cousin, Juanita Taetzsch and husband William of Wisand Lake, N.Y.; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Deanna and Carl Thomas of Hurlock, Md.; brother-in-law, Joe Wood of Denton, Md.; and nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, a sister-in-law, Deena Wood, also preceded him in death. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 29, at Watson-Yates Funeral Home, Seaford.


Donald E. White Jr. -- Donald E. White Jr., 68, of Seaford, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010, at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital, with his soulmate by his side. He was born in Pittsfield, Mass. on May 15, 1941. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald E. White and Eleanor Rousseau White, and sister, Valerie White Holfs. He is survived by his soulmate and partner, Margaret Lou Reining. Don graduated from Dalton High School, Dalton, Mass. and the Northeastern School of Radio and Television Broadcasting. He worked at WHMP in North Hampton, Mass. and WBEC in Pittsfield, Mass. He enlisted in the Army and was awarded the Public Information Specialist MOS 71R, with psychological warfare special identifier. His first assignment was at Fort Knox, Ky., Public Affairs Office, as head of the broadcasting section.ﾠ He was reassigned to the Special Forces Warfare Center at Fort Bragg, and on to Okinawa, Japan, assigned to the Voice of United Nations Command network. Then he joined the Air Force with immediate assignment to American Forces Radio and Television Services Station Manager in Karamurcel, Turkey and Osan AB, Korea; news director in Okinawa and Thule AB, Greenland AFRTS and Sondretrom AB, Greenland; PIO Combat news, Phan Rang, VN, Sr. Television News announcer; American Forces Vietnam Network, Saigon; NCOIC Radio Operation; American Forces Korea Network, Saigon; NCOIC Radio Operations; American Forces Korea Network Special Events Radio-NBC Korea Olympics; NCOIC Field and Studio Production, European Broadcasting Squadron; Ramstein AB, Germany, Missile Squadron Flight Security Supervisor, 10th Missile Squadron; and Great Falls, Montana NCOIC Video Production, Training Section-Security Squadron.ﾠ He retired as E-7 Master Sergeant in September 1989. He held the following civilian positions: Public Safety Director and Harbor Master at King Cove, Ark.; Assistant to the Regional Office of the Vice President of Stanley Smith Security Company, San Antonio, Texas; Operations Director, Stanley Smith Security, Alaska, Anchorage; Community Relations Officer, Office of the Secretary, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, Dover. Honors include winner of the Department of Defense Thomas Jefferson Award for first place for professional excellence in broadcasting for the Armed Forces of the United States of America in 1983. The award was for producing, directing and anchor person for a 30 minute Air Force documentary show, American Forces Perspective, a show produced by the European Broadcast Squadron at Ramstein AB, Germany.ﾠ He was also a winner of the U.S. Air Force Media Contest Broadcasting Award, first place, Category D American Forces Perspective, as primary contributor, Ramstein, Germany, 1983.ﾠ He was appointed the Prince of Faushing, City of Ramstein, Germany, which is equal to the king of Mardi Gras. He was chosen by the mayor to represent the city in 1985 because of his special reports on American Forces Network Europe on the event that runs for a full year. Special duty to all events as Prince. His memberships included The American Legion Walter L. Fox Post 2, Dover; DE Past Commander, held many offices, chairmanships and was Uncle Sam and announcer in the Dover Fourth of July Parade for 12 years; Past Department Commander and Adjutant 2006-2007; Department Trooper Youth Week Chairman 14 years; Department Public Relations Chairman 14 years; Operations Director of the Dept of DE Community Emergency Response Team; and Dept. Operation Military Kids Representative.ﾠ He was certified as a National A. L. Service Officer, received the highest award the department bestows, The Department of Delaware Honor Award; graduate of the American Legion Institute-extension course. Don and Corbit Goff worked around the clock to have the Veterans Home in Milford built and in operation. Other memberships included Forty and Eight Voiture 244 Chef de Gare and past and present Grand Voiture du Delaware Grand Chef de Gare, and other offices; President of the Mid Atlantic; Past Commander and Life member VFW Post 3238, Camden; Past District Commander Yongsan Korea; and Judge Advocate Department of Panama; Life member Military Order of the Cooties; member Delaware Veterans Inc., Dover; Past Commander Seam Squirrel MOC Pup Tent 2, Camden-Wyoming; Life member DAV, Commander, Yongsan Korea 1987. He was a member and a trustee of Bethel United Methodist Church at Oak Grove, Seaford; and a member and chef at Gethsemane United Methodist Bible Sunday School Class, Seaford. A viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 27. Services are at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 28, at Cranston Funeral Home, Seaford. Service will follow at 1 p.m. at the Veterans Cemetery, Bear. Donations may be made in his memory to Bethel U.M. Church at Oak Grove, c/o Sina Rosales, 7274 Todds Wharf Rd., Preston, MD 21655; or Gethsemane Bible Sunday School Class, 2701 Woodland Ferry Road, Seaford, DE 19973.


William H. Hastings -- William Henry Hastings, 63, of Seaford, passed away peacefully at his residence with his loved ones by his side on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010. He was born Nov. 3, 1946, in Dover, son of the late W. Henry and Edith (Phelps) Hastings. Mr. Hastings enjoyed a long career with Manlove Auto Parts of Seaford. He also enjoyed bowling and played for many years first on the Mar-Del Bowling League and later on the Seaford City League. Another favorite pastime of his was cheering on Tony Stewart of NASCAR fame. He was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather. Mr. Hastings is survived by his wife of 40 years, Althea (Shockley) Hastings; two daughters, Rebecca L. Willin and Joan R. Brown, both of Seaford; three grandchildren, Timothy, Brandon and Brittany Spicer; his son-in-law, David Brown of Seaford; his mother and father-in-law, Minos H. and Joan P. Shockley of Seaford; and his sister-in-law, Vivian L. Shockley of Millsboro. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 1, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Hardesty Chapel, Bridgeville, where friends may call one hour before the service. The Rev. Floyd T. Morton II will officiate. Interment will follow at Bridgeville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to VITAS Hospice Charitable Fund, 100 Commerce Dr., Suite 302, Newark, DE 19713.


Thomas A. Sullivan -- Thomas Tom A. Sullivan, 45, of Laurel, formerly of Delmar, died Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010, at Coastal Hospice at the Lake in Salisbury, Md. He passed away after a long illness, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Pennsylvania, a son of Catherine Sullivan and the late John W. Sullivan. Tom graduated from Delmar High School with the class of 1982. After high school he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army with the 101st Army Engineers, where he earned various medals and decorations. He was an avid sports fan and was passionate about his Dallas Cowboys. He loved to read all sorts of books, including almanacs and dictionaries, and was considered a history buff. He loved the outdoors and took great pride in his garden. He adored his daughter and his family. Tom worked for over 10 years as a supervisor at various locations for Western Pest Control, most recently in Salisbury. He is survived by his daughter, Kassandra Casey Sullivan of Laurel; his mother, Catherine Sullivan of Laurel; a sister, Jean Melvin and her husband John of Delmar; and four brothers, John Sullivan and his wife Meri Jane of Texas, Bill Sullivan and his wife Ruth of Virginia, Michael Sullivan of Laurel and Chris Sullivan and his wife Penny of Bridgeville. He is also survived by 13 nieces and nephews and 11 great-nieces and nephews. In addition to his father, John W. Sullivan, his brother, Charles Sullivan, preceded him in death. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 1, at Short Funeral Home, Delmar, where family and friends may call from 1 to 2 p.m. The Rev. Howard Travers will officiate. Interment with military honors will follow at St. Stephens Cemetery in Delmar. Memorial contributions may be made in Toms memory to Coastal Hospice at the Lake, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, MD 21802. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.


Eric F. Dukes Jr. -- Eric F. Froggy Dukes Jr., 67, of Laurel, passed away at St. Frances Hospital in Wilmington, on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010. He was born in Laurel, a son of the late Eric Dukes Sr. and Madelyn Dukes. He was a graduate of Laurel High School and proudly served his country in the United States National Guard. Mr. Dukes spent his life as a grain farmer on his farm in Laurel. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Rosemary Dukes; a daughter, Holly Timmons and husband William of Laurel; a brother, James Dukes of Laurel; a granddaughter, Heather Timmons of Laurel; and several nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 1, at Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home in Laurel, where a viewing will be held one hour before the service. The Rev. Tim Dukes will officiate. Interment will follow in Asbury United Methodist Church cemetery.


Harvey E. Cline -- Harvey E. Cline, 40, of Laurel, passed away on Friday, Jan. 29, 2010, at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital. He was born in Wilmington, a son of the late Richard Cline and Doris Cline of Laurel. Harvey was a self employed HVAC contractor. He enjoyed spending time with his family, boating, jet skiing and traveling. Those who knew him will cherish memories of a wonderful friend. Harvey never met a stranger and was always there to lend a hand. He was a member of Crossroads Community Church in Georgetown. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Shelly Cline of Laurel. He was a great father to his son, Zachary Cline and daughter, Kelsie Cline, both at home. Other survivors include his brothers, Steve Cline and wife Debbie of St. Georges and Richard Cline and wife Cindy of Millsboro; a sister, Debbie Craig and husband George of Smyrna; his mother and father-in-law, Alan and Mary Jane Littleton of Laurel; and a sister-in-law, Sherry Pusey and husband Ray of Laurel. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 2, at Crossroads Community Church, Georgetown, where a viewing will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Pastors Rick Betts and Ron Wyatt will officiate. Interment will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Laurel. Arrangements are in the care of Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home, Laurel.ﾠﾠﾠ


Ethan M. Williams -- EthanﾠMax Williams, 8,ﾠpassed away peacefully on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010, atﾠAlfred I.ﾠduPont Hospital for Children,ﾠafter a courageous 14 month battle with anﾠinoperable brain tumorﾠknown asﾠDiffuse PontineﾠGliomaﾠ(DPG), with his parents and step-parents by his side.ﾠﾠ Ethan is the son of Michelle (Valentine) Burgess of Camden andﾠD.ﾠMichael Williamsﾠof Dover. He was born on Aug. 8, 2001, in Dover.ﾠ Ethan was a third grader at AllenﾠFrear Elementary School in Camden, and a proud member of theﾠCaesar RodneyﾠGifted and Talented program.ﾠ Ethan was a kindergarten graduate ofﾠCalvary Christian Academy, Dover, and a cherished pupilﾠof Love and Learn Daycare Center, Dover. ﾠ He attendedﾠSunday School and Vacation Bible SchoolﾠatﾠWyomingﾠUnited Methodist Church.ﾠOtherﾠaccomplishments for Ethan include being chosen as the Bow Country "Man of the Year" for 2009,ﾠandﾠbeing an honorary member of theﾠLeipsic Volunteer Fire Company and theﾠWyoming United Methodist Church softballﾠteam.ﾠ Ethanﾠdearlyﾠloved baseball and played for the Dover Little Leagueﾠin the Tee Ball, Pee Wee andﾠMinor League programs.ﾠFor his dedication, Ethanﾠwas chosen to throw out the honorary "first pitch" to start the 2009 Little League season. Ethan was a huge fan of theﾠPhiladelphia Phillies.ﾠHisﾠfavoriteﾠplayerﾠwas second basemanﾠChase Utley, whom Ethan got to meet in August 2009.ﾠ Ethanﾠattended game five of theﾠ2009 World Seriesﾠwhen theﾠPhillies beat theﾠYankees 8-6, led by two home runs from Chase Utley.ﾠ Ethan will always be remembered as a very gifted student, amazing ball player, special friendﾠand role model to many.ﾠEthan loved to collect coins, and spent many hours viewing and improving his cherished collection.ﾠHe knew much more than most adults when it came to coin collecting,ﾠand was always eager to tell everybody about each of his pennies, nickels and quarters.ﾠ While spending time with his family, he loved to play board games, card games, do math problems and draw pictures.ﾠAlthough his life was short,ﾠEthanﾠlived life to the fullest.ﾠNo one will ever forget his jokes, impressions and his amazing ability to touch the souls of everyone he met.ﾠ During the course of his illness, Ethan was treated to many special trips and privileges.ﾠThese includedﾠgoing toﾠtheﾠPhiladelphia Philliesﾠ2008 World Series Ring Ceremonyﾠgame in April 2009, courtesy of the Front Row Foundation; attending a concert and meetingﾠDavid Cookﾠat theﾠDelaware State Fairﾠcourtesy of the Kelly Heinz-GrundnerﾠBrain Tumor Foundation; getting a personal tour of theﾠCitizens Bank Park;ﾠand being able to meet Chase Utley of the Philadelphia Phillies. He was also invited to drop the puck at aﾠPhiladelphia Phantoms hockey game. ﾠ Only a week before his passing, Ethan and his family were treated to aﾠPhiladelphia Flyersﾠgame and were able to sit in Captain Mike Richards' suite to watch the game, courtesy of the Little Smiles Organization. Ethan was also chosen as a 2009 Delaware State Fair All-Star Youth of the Day.ﾠﾠ Thanks to the generosity of theﾠMake-A-Wish Foundation,ﾠEthan was granted aﾠspecial tripﾠto Floridaﾠwithﾠhisﾠparents, step-parents and brother Jake in September 2009. Highlights included getting to attend threeﾠbaseball games of the Phillies vs. Florida Marlins, touring theﾠEverglades and visiting and swimming inﾠMiami Beach.ﾠﾠﾠ Ethan was able to give the gift of life in the form of donations of his kidneys and corneas to other patients in need.ﾠHisﾠliver was also donatedﾠfor research of the effects of chemotherapy and his tumor was given for research of possible new understanding and treatment ofﾠDiffuse Pontine Glioma. Ethan was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandfathers,ﾠJohnny Valentineﾠof Marietta, Ohio, and Thomas OConnor of Liverpool, England; his maternal great-grandmother, Florence OConnor ofﾠLiverpool; his paternal great-grandparents, Harvey and Clara Fifer ofﾠRising SunﾠandﾠDr. Arnold and Mildred Williams of Laurel; his maternal grandmother, Marina Valentine of Dover; his paternal grandfather, David R. Williams of Dover; and an uncle, Max Laird of Dover.ﾠ In addition to his parents,ﾠEthanﾠis survived by his stepfather, Jon Burgess; stepmother,ﾠDawn Melson-Williams; brother Jacob Williams; and his stepbrother and sister,ﾠAlek andﾠArynne Burgess.ﾠﾠ He is also survived on his mothers side by his great-grandmother, Genevieve Valentine of Marietta; grandfather, Charley Valentine of Dover; aunts, Lisa Phillips and Karen Marvel of Dover, and Julie Laird of Montague, Mass.; his uncle, Mark Valentine of Raleigh, N.C.; his cousins, Leah Keefe ofﾠShutesbury, Mass. andﾠLaurenﾠBrewster of Dover; his great- uncle CharlieﾠBatey of Dover;ﾠhis step-grandparents, Libby Burgess of Hampden, Mass. and Robert Burgess of Dover; and his step-aunts, Betsy Duran of Oregon and Robin Burgess of Hampden. He is survived on his fathers side byﾠpaternal grandmother,ﾠYvonneﾠWilliams of Dover; his step-grandparents, the Rev. DianeﾠMelsonﾠandﾠFrank E. Melson Jr.ﾠof Bridgeville;ﾠuncles,ﾠJeff Williamsﾠand his wife Tanya of Dover, andﾠGreg Williamsﾠof Dover; his step-aunt,ﾠDianaﾠZlock and her husbandﾠRobert; and his cousins,ﾠNathan Williams, EmmaﾠZlock andﾠDanielﾠZlock.ﾠﾠ He is also survived by many other great-aunts, great-uncles and cousins; his best friend, Seth Blanchfield; and his beloved dogs, Izzie, Oreo and Nutter Butter. Friends may call from 6 to 9 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 1, at Wyoming United Methodist Church, Dover. Services will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 2, at the church.ﾠBurial will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Camden. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Jacob Williams Education Fund, c/o the 1stﾠNational Bank of Wyoming, Attn: Christina, 800 S. Governors Ave., Dover, DE 19904 or Wyoming United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 389, Wyoming, DE 19934-0389. ﾠ Letters of condolences may be sent online at www.pippinfuneralhome.com.


Ferdinand M. A. Collins -- Ferdinand Ferd Mario Anair Collins, 74, succumbed to Lou Gehrigs disease at his home in St. Augustine, Fla., on Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010. Born in Waterbury, Vt., on Dec. 8, 1935, he was the younger son of the late William E. and Lula (Anair) Collins of Waterbury. Ferd graduated from Waterbury High School (54) where he distinguished himself as class president each year and as a leading contributor to champion basketball, baseball and ski teams. Ferd graduated from Norwich University (58) with a B.S. degree in Business Administration, a U.S. Army officer commission and a Sigma Phi Epsilon Alumni membership. His first career was as an officer serving in the 14th Armored Cavalry, Bad Hersfeld, Germany, followed by a second tour in Germany in the 82nd Airborne Division Tank Battalion where he was promoted to Tank Company Commander during the Berlin Wall tensions and Cold War. His last 3-year assignment was at Middlebury College as an assistant professor teaching Military Science. On Dec. 18, 1965, Ferd married the former Rebecca Faye Groton of Laurel, at St. Andrews Church, Waterbury. In Middlebury, Vt., the couple began their lifelong commitment to giving back to the community. Ferd was a Boy Scout leader, Little League Baseball and Soccer coach and a favorite Middlebury College Fraternity chaperone and judge at downhill ski team meets. In 1968, Ferd began his civilian career at Deck House, Inc. of Acton, Mass., rising to New England regional sales manager. During his 17 years at Deck House, he ranked first or second in sales volume each year. The couple settled in Carlisle, Mass., where they resided for 32 years. There, Ferd continued his commitment to serving the community. For years he was honored to be the Memorial Day Parade marshal and to call out, with reverence, the name of each fallen Carlisle veteran. He served on the Town Building Committee during a time of rapid growth and expansion. He coached the Bulls basketball team under the auspices of the Recreation Committee. As a member of the Acton, Mass., Junior Chamber of Commerce, he created a local junior ski team, guided them to No. 1 in New England and coached them in the Nationals in Colorado. One member of his team went to the Olympics on the U.S. Ski Team. In Carlisle, he was an active member of the Emerson Hospital Auxiliary Fundraising Committees. In 1984, his career move was to Pella Windows and Doors of New England as executive vice president and general manager. He brought the company to a 50% increase in growth and became president and chief operating officer before retiring. While living in Massachusetts, Ferd served his alma mater, Norwich University, for 15 years on the Board of Fellows with several committee assignments including Recruitment, Admissions and Building Committee. In 2003, Ferd and Faye became 1819 Circle members of the Partridge Society of Norwich University. Ferd, an avid Vermont downhill skier, required a second home for 20 years in Quechee, Vt. He delighted in skiing in Colorado and Europe as well. The couple had great entertainments at their summer home of 25 years on the beach in Gloucester, Mass. Ferd enjoyed the study of wines  beginning with a wine appreciation course at Norwich University, followed by visiting vineyards during his military years in Germany, and the rest of his life traveling the world with Faye to vineyards in France, Italy, Australia and South America. He created a large wine cellar in his home and became a regional director of the International Club Les Amis du Vin. He wrote a column called Lines for Wine that appeared regularly in The Village News and contributed articles to other news publications. In 1999, Ferd and Faye retired to St. Augustine where he was able to focus on his golf game. He was a volunteer for five years at the Tournament of Players (TPC), Sawgrass, serving on the Commissary Committee for the golf pros. He was also a volunteer marshal at the Legends of Golf Tournament, World Golf Village, for several years. He continued to give back to the community in St. Augustine, serving as a member of the RSVP volunteer organization and for three years delivering Meals on Wheels weekly for the Council on Aging. He served on the Board of Directors for the condominium association where he and Faye lived. His Catholic faith ever strong, he was a 4th Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus from his hometown of Waterbury. Ferd is survived by his wife of 44 years, Rebecca Faye Collins; his brother, William T. Collins and wife Claudette of Waterbury; his sisters, Patricia Russell of Rutland, Vt., and Emily Ternavasio of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; his sister-in-law, Joan Groton Venables and husband Bill of Laurel; and many loving nieces and nephews. Assisting with cremation services is Craig Funeral Home of St. Augustine. The Funeral Mass and celebration of Ferds life with military honors will be held at St. Andrews Church, Waterbury, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 13, with a reception to follow at Parish Hall. Assisting in Vermont is Perkins-Parker Funeral Home in Waterbury, where flowers will be gratefully accepted. To send online condolences, visit www.perkinsparker.com.


Crystal L. Baker, 24 Crystal L. Baker of Greenwood, died on January 22, 2010. She was born September 22, 1985 in Wilmington, daughter of Laura Hatfield and David Baker. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her sister, Nina Maddox, and her brother, Brian Baker. A private ceremony is being held at Union United Methodist Church in Bridgeville. All donations can be mailed to UUMC, 2 N. Laws Street, Bridgeville, DE 19933.


James M. Nelson -- James Milton Nelson, 75, of Seaford, went to be with the Lord on Monday, Feb. 1, 1010, with his family by his side. James was born Nov. 11, 1934, in Galestown, Md., the son of the late Milton and Mary Nelson. He graduated from Hurlock High School in 1953.ﾠ He retired from the Dupont Company in Seaford after 37 years of service.ﾠHe had a great love of gardening, bowling and fishing.ﾠHe was a member of First Baptist Church of Seaford. ﾠ James is survived by his wife of 54 years, Phyllis Nelson; two sons, Daniel and Jeffrey; a granddaughter, Kristin; and two great-grandsons. A son, Steve Nelson, preceded him in death in 2002. The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 5, at Cranston Funeral Home, Seaford, where friends may call one hour before the service. Burial will be in Odd Fellows Cemetery.


Elizabeth Betty Hitchens -- Elizabeth Betty Hitchens, 87, of Laurel, passed away on Monday, Feb. 1, 2010, at Delaware Hospice Center, Milford. She was born in Lewes, a daughter of the late William and Clara Hastings Mitchell. Betty retired as a secretary at the Recorder of Deeds office in Georgetown. She was a member of St. Philips Episcopal Church in Laurel and a past member of the Laurel Lioness Club. Mrs. Hitchens is survived by her brother, James D. Mitchell of New Hampshire and a sister, Margaret Lyle White of Lewes. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph M. Hitchens; brothers, William and Richard Mitchell; and a sister, Helen Mitchell Trifillis. The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 5, at St. Philips Episcopal Church, Laurel, where a visitation will be held one hour before the service. The Rev. Dr. Howard Backus will officiate. Interment will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Laurel. Memorial donations may be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963. Arrangements are in the care of Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home, Laurel.


Virginia A. Rust -- Virginia Anderson Rust, 101, died on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010, after a brief illness at the Methodist Manor House in Seaford She was born on July 11, 1908, in Dayton, Texas. Within a year of her birth, her parents, Anne and C. C. Anderson Jr., moved to Lake Arthur, La. When she was 12, they moved to Ripley, Tenn., where many of her fathers relatives lived. Virginia earned her B.S. degree in education from the University of Memphis in Memphis, Tenn. (1930) and her masters degree from George Peabody College in Nashville, Tenn. (1939). Her first teaching positions were in Moscow, Tenn., and Chatham, Mich. She moved to Laurel to teach at the high school. She also taught in Milford and Millsboro. Her favorite subjects to teach were Latin and English. She retired from Sussex Central Middle School in 1971. Virginia married Manford C. Rust in 1942. They opened a jewelry and giftware business in Georgetown around 1950. Besides her teaching and volunteer activities, she helped with the business. After Manfords death in 1972, she sold the business, but continued to be active in the community. She moved to the Methodist Manor House in 1990. She was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church and the former Sunshine Class, which she also taught. She co-founded the Georgetown Branch (now Georgetown-Coastal) of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and served in many capacities, including president and she also served at the state level. She was a member of the Georgetown Historical Society, at one time serving as publicity chair. Since moving to the Manor House, she wrote biographical columns about new residents for the in-house newsletter. She served on the Altar Guild of the chapel and enjoyed the Bible study group. She participated in the fitness center pool program at MMH until she was almost 100-years-old. She also assisted in the library and cut stamps from envelopes to raise money for the MMH Benevolent Fund. She liked assembling puzzles and playing bridge with friends. Virginia was pre-deceased by her parents and her husband. She is survived by her daughter, the Rev. Elizabeth Rust Masterson and husband, Fred, of Newark; her grandson, William Rust Kahl and wife Sarah, of Baltimore, Md.; and her granddaughter, Sarah Kahl Picollelli and husband, Michael, of Newark. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 10, at Wesley United Methodist Church, Georgetown. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Virginias memory may be sent to Wesley United Methodist Church, 102 E. Laurel St., Georgetown, DE, 19947, or the Methodist Manor House Benevolent Fund, 1001 Middleford Rd., Seaford, DE, 19973. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Services, Georgetown.


Thorpe A. Caldwell -- Thorpe ￢ﾀﾜThorpie￢ﾀﾝ Allen Caldwell, 62, of Dover, and formerly of Delmar, died Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010, at Westminster Village Health Center in Dover. He was born Aug. 27, 1947, in Salisbury, Md., a son of Gladys M. Caldwell of Magnolia and the late Thorpe Foster Caldwell who passed in 2005. Thorpie had an innate love for life, never met a stranger and loved making others smile. He was a Mickey Mouse enthusiast and collector. He had a love for sports, especially professional wrestling, and enjoyed bowling, swimming and music and was an excellent dancer. Many in Delmar remember Thorpie￢ﾀﾙs love for parades and fire truck rides. He was a member of St. Stephen￢ﾀﾙs United Methodist Church in Delmar, the MAC Club of Delmar and an associate member of the VFW Post #8276 in Delmar. In addition to his mother, he is survived by a brother, Jim Caldwell of Magnolia; a sister, Carol Amoia and her husband, Tony of Grasonville, Md.; and two nephews, Michael and Chris Amoia. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 5, at St. Stephen￢ﾀﾙs United Methodist Church in Delmar, where family and friends may call one hour before the service. The Rev. Dan Griggs will officiate. Interment will follow in Springhill Memory Gardens in Hebron, Md. In memory of Mr. Caldwell, contributions may be sent to St. Stephen￢ﾀﾙs United Methodist Church, 101 E. State St., Delmar, DEￂﾠ19940. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.


Margaret B. Hubbard -- Margaret B. Hubbard, 73, of Seaford, died Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010. Mrs. Hubbard was a bookkeeper for the Seaford Leader. She was a member of the VFW in Seaford and a former member of the Seaford Elks Club. Her husband, Emerson Hubbard died in 1992. She is survived by her son, Keith Hubbard and his wife Deborah and her daughter, Kathryn Martin and her husband Don, all of Seaford. She is also survived by four grandchildren, Kip Holloway, Kimberly Layton, Kristin Wingate and Kyle Hubbard; seven great-grandchildren; and a sister, Yvonne Wright. The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 8, at Cranston Funeral Home, Seaford, where friends may call one hour before the service. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery, Federalsburg, Md.


Dorothy M. Perdue -- Dorothy M. Perdue, 75, of Greenwood, died Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010, at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital in Seaford. Dorothy was born Aug. 8, 1934, in Bridgeville to the late McKinley and Margaret Anderson. She held several jobs in her lifetime including working for L.D. Caulk Co. in Milford. Dorothy was a big baseball fan and her favorite team was the New York Yankees. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and doing puzzles. Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, William E. Perdue; a brother, Herman Anderson; and a granddaughter, Melissa Perdue Prekup. She was survived by three children and their spouses, Dottie and Butch Williamson of Federalsburg, Md., Denny and Judy Perdue of Bridgeville, and Lori and Brian Beauchamp of Greenwood; seven grandchildren, Audra, Darin, Jennifer, Dennis, Sarah, Laura and Michael; eight great-grandchildren, Dustin, Zachary, Jacob, Emily, Brandon, Nicholas, Jason and Michaela; a sister, Florence Jones of Greenwood; and a brother, Clinton Anderson of Laurel. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 8, at Fleischauer Funeral Home, Greenwood, where visitation will be held one hour before the service. Interment will be held at St. Johnstown Cemetery in Greenwood. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to NMH (801 Middleford Rd., Seaford, DE 19973, Attn: Development Office) who took wonderful care of Dorothy during her brief stay or the Greenwood VFD, P.O. Box 1, Greenwood, DE 19950.


Charlotte A. Pusey -- Charlotte Ann Pusey, 86, of Seaford, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010, at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital in Seaford. She was born in Laurel, a daughter of the late Grover Cleveland Pusey and Polly White Pusey. She retired as a seamstress working at several garment factories in Sussex County. She was a member of St. Georges United Methoist Church in Delmar. Family memories include her love of dancing in her early years, camping and gardening. Mrs. Pusey is survived by her sons: Dana and Robert Pusey; a daughter, Rosemary Pusey; her sisters-in-law, Madge Thomas, Carolyn Pusey, Martha Pusey and Annabelle Pusey; her grandchildren, Alan and Rose Pusey; great-grandchildren, Ashley, Jessica, Amanda, Brittany, Katelyn and Tiffany; and great-great-grandchildren, Riley and Julin. She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Pusey and a great-great-grandchild, Alexis. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 12, at Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home, where a viewing will be held one hour before the service. The Rev. Doris Whaley will officiate. Interment will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery in Laurel. Contributions may be made in Mrs. Pusey's memory to the American Diabetes Association, 100 W. 10th St., Suite 1002, Wilmington, DE 19801.


Irma L. Ellis -- Irma L. Ellis, 85, of Laurel, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at her home on Friday, Feb. 5, 2010. She was born on Oct. 17, 1924, in Hebron, Md. She was the daughter of the late Theodore and Bessie Rounds.ﾠ She was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, Fred L. Ellis. She was also preceded in death by three brothers, Arthur Rounds, Norman Rounds and Maurice Elton Rounds. Irma was a member of Mt.ﾠPleasant United Methodist Churchﾠin Laurel where she will always be remembered for her sweet potato pies. She was also a member of Rebekah Lodge in Laurel. Irma enjoyed a long career as an Avon Lady along with her dear friend, Frances Hackley. She worked at DuPont, Mary Cordreys Grocery Store, Joyce BoycesﾠBeauty Shopﾠand Marvil ONeals garage. Mrs. Ellis is survived by two daughters, Laura L. Ellis and Sandra L. Hall and husband Bob of Laurel; three granddaughters, Nicole Dickerson and companion Rob Givens, Jessie Walls and husband Ryan and Wende Niblett, all of Laurel; two grandsons, Kevin Niblett and wife Tiesha, and Brian Niblett and wife Kim, all of Laurel; 11 great-grandchildren, Cody Niblett, Laine Dickerson, Logan Walls, Dylan Niblett, Elya Niblett, Zoey Niblett, Grant Dickerson, Jada Niblett, Elijah Niblett, Tate Walls and Micah Niblett; her sister-in-law, Jennie Smith and brother-in-law, Phil Ellis and wife Debbie, all of Laurel; and several nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be held atﾠOdd Fellows Cemeteryﾠin Laurel, on Saturday, Feb. 20, at 11 a.m.ﾠThe Revs.ﾠDale Evansﾠand Roland Tice will officiate.ﾠA Celebrationﾠof her Life will follow at Christ Evangelistic Church, Laurel, at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to: Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963 or Seaford Center, 1100 Norman Eskridge Highway, Seaford, DE 19973. Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home in Laurel is serving the Ellis family.


William C. Calloway -- William C. Calloway, 89, of Delmar, died Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010, at Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury, Md. He was born July 13, 1920, on a farm near Delmar, a son of the late Marion Calloway Sr. and Susie Hastings Calloway. Bill graduated from Delmar High School in Maryland in 1937. After graduation, he worked at the Dupont Company. A short time later, he joined the Navy where he served on a PT Boat in the South Pacific.ﾠ Upon returning to Delmar, he bought the Bi-State Printing Company, where he printed a local newspaper called the Bi-State Weekly and did commercial printing.ﾠIn 1963, he sold the printing business and, in 1964, became the Postmaster in Delmar, until his retirement in 1983.ﾠ He was a member of the American Legion in Delmar, the Delmar VFW Post 8276, the Delmar Masonic Lodge #201, Scottish Rite of Freemasonry and St. Stephens United Methodist Church. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Anne Dickerson Calloway; two daughters and sons-in-law, Norma and David Hudson of Delmar and Cathy and Paul Wettlaufer of Bel Air, Md.; five grandchildren, David Hudson II and his wife Lauren, Daniel Hudson and Paul Hudson, all of Delmar, Dr. Cara Wettlaufer of Nottingham, Md. and Kyle Wettlaufer of Bel Air, Md.; and one great-granddaughter, Annabelle Hudson of Delmar. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Marion H. Calloway Jr. and a sister, Virginia Hand. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 9, at Short Funeral Home, Delmar, where family and friends may call one hour before the service. Interment will follow at St. Stephens Cemetery in Delmar.ﾠ In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Mr. Calloway to St. Stephens United Methodist Church, 101 E. State St., Delmar, DEﾠ 19940 or Delmar High School Booster Club, c/o Delmar School District, 200 N. Eighth St., Delmar, DE 19940. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.shortfh.com.


Ruth Mae Steele Wheatley -- Ruth Mae Steele Wheatley, 82, of Seaford, died Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, at Genesis Elder Care, Seaford. Born in Dagsboro, the daughter of the late Clara Justice and Ebe N. Steele, she was a bookkeeper for her husband's business, Calvin Wheatley Mason Contractor. Prior to that, she worked for the Van Leer Stephany Insurance and Realty Firm. Ruth was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary Virgil Wilson Post 4961 Veterans of Foreign Wars, where she ran Bingo for a number of years. She is survived by her husband, H. Calvin Wheatley; a son, Bruce C. Wheatley and his wife Patricia of Kenner, La.; a brother, Roland Steele of Tennessee; and two grandchildren, Alex and Cullen. Services will be held at noon on Tuesday, Feb. 9, at Watson-Yates Funeral Home, Seaford, where friends may call one hour before the service. The Rev. Roland E. Tice will officiate. A committal service will be held at 2 p.m. at the DelawareﾠVeterans Memorial Cemetery, with interment following in the cemetery.ﾠ


 

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