Janet Irene Reynolds, 79, of Dagsboro, Del., passed away Sunday, Nov. 13, 2016, with her family by her side. She was born to the late Frank and Florence Wood on Jan. 2, 1937, in Quarryville, Pa.

On Feb. 6, 1954, she married her childhood friend, the love of her life, John T. Reynolds Sr. She was a member of the East Sussex Moose Lodge. Reynolds loved Christmas, crafts, yard work, yard sales, caring for animals, collecting family pictures and, most of all, being a grandmother.

Reynolds was preceded in death by her brother, Raymond Wood, and a sister, Doris Neubauer. She was a devoted mother of Deborah Hollis, Jacqueline Manning and John “Ted” Reynolds Jr., and her precious dog, Cuddles; loving grandmother of Laura Bennett, Kelly Drummond, James Durham, John Hojnicki, Amanda Cook, Elizabeth Fenescey, Chris Hollis and 14 great-grandchildren, including her great-grandson, Mason Drummond; and a special aunt to several nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will gather Saturday, Nov. 19, 2016, at 10 a.m., with service at 11 a.m., at Melson Funeral Services, 43 Thatcher Street, Frankford, Del. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial donations be made for Mason’s college fund, which was very important to her, at WSFS Bank’s “Janet Reynolds Memorial Fund.” Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Hazel M. Thompson, 95, of Millsboro, Del., passed away and went home to be with the Lord and her beloved husband on Saturday, Nov. 5, 2016. Thompson was born in Seaford, Del., on Feb. 26, 1921, daughter of the late Leslie Hall and Myrtle (Hudson) Hall.

Thompson was the owner and instructor at the Delaware Beauty College in New Castle, Del., and was also an instructor at Sussex Technical High School. Thompson and her husband enjoyed traveling, and she was a member of Concord (Del.) United Methodist Church.

In addition to her parents, Thompson was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ralph H. Thompson Jr., in 2000; two sisters, Maude Givens and Madelyn Wright; and a brother, Everett Hall. She is survived by her daughter, Janet L. Warrington, and her husband, Art, of Millsboro; her grandson, William Keith Brumbley and his wife, Wendi, of Bear, Del.; four sisters, Evelyn Burton of Rehoboth Beach, Del., Betty Cummings and her family, of Preston, Md., Dorothy Givens and her family, of Seaford, Del., and Jeanette Reed and her family, of Hurlock, Md.; several beloved nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews; and Vickie Givens, a niece of Annapolis, Md., who was a like a second daughter and to whom she talked to almost every day.

A celebration of Thompson’s life will be held Saturday, Nov. 19, 2016, at noon at Concord United Methodist Church, 25322 Church Road, Concord, DE 19973, to which the family suggested memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers. Interment was to be private. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Eugene C. “Gene” Denhardt, 71, of Selbyville, Del., and formerly of Glenville, Pa., passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2016, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes, Del. He was born in Baltimore, Md., on Sept. 1, 1945, the son of the late August Denhardt and Martha (Szciecinski) Denhardt.

Denhardt graduated from Mount Saint Joseph High School in Baltimore. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Baltimore by attending night classes for seven years while working full-time and raising three young children with his wife, Jackie. He retired as a manager at Westinghouse/Northrop Grumman after 42 years of service. Denhardt’s favorite roles, though, were as husband, dad and “Grampy.”

After raising their kids in Manchester, Md., and Glenville, the Denhardts retired at the beach. He enjoyed his retirement, spending time with his grandkids, biking, walking and gardening. He was a member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church, and he faithfully attended the local meetings of the alumni association of Mount Saint Joseph High School in the Ocean City, Md., area.

In addition to his parents, Denhardt was preceded in death by two brothers, Frank and Edward Denhardt, and his stepfather, Philip Stenger. He is survived by his loving wife of very nearly 48 years, Jacqueline L. (Robinson) Denhardt; three children, Danielle A. Denhardt of Sterling, Va., Melissa A. Blumenthal and her husband, Daniel, of Arlington, Va., and Philip A. Denhardt of Hampden, Md.; two grandchildren, Owen and Madeline Blumenthal; and two brothers, Frederick Denhardt and his wife, Linda, of Bloomingdale, Georgia, and Timothy Denhardt and his wife, Shirley, of Severna Park, Md. All will miss him dearly.

A Mass of Christian Burial was scheduled for Nov. 19, 2016, at St. Luke’s Catholic Church, Ocean City, Md. Interment will be held at a later date, at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Dagsboro, Del. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to Mount Saint Joseph High School at www.msjnet.edu or St. Luke’s Catholic Church by visiting www.stlukeoc.com. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Wilma E. Fye, 88, of Selbyville, Del., and formerly of Mt Airy, Md., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2016, at Harrison Senior Living of Georgetown, Del. Fye was born in Connellsville, Pa., daughter of the late Frank Cavanaugh and Emma (Dillinger) Cavanaugh.

She retired from Montgomery County (Md.) government as an elementary school health room aide. In her free time, Fye enjoyed baking, ceramics, sewing, crocheting and attending yard sales.

Fye was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Max R. Fye, who passed away on Oct. 19, 2016. She is survived by two sons, Mark B. Fye and his wife, Alice, of Louisa, Va., and Gregg S. Fye and his wife, Helen, of Mt. Airy; a daughter, Karen F. Drescher and her husband, Steve, of Selbyville; a brother, Everett Cavanaugh of Bloomingdale, Ill.; 16 grandchildren; and 29 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In honor of the “angels” at VITAS Hospice, memorial contributions may be made to VITAS Hospice; 20773 Professional Park Blvd.; Georgetown, DE 19947. Condolences may be sent online at www.bishophastingsfh.com.

Hilda (Esham) Dennis Hall, 96, passed away on Nov. 17, 2016. She was born Feb. 8, 1920, in Gumboro, Del., to Alfred Esham and Ida Lynch Esham.

Hall was a housewife and self-employed poultry farmer, growing chickens for Perdue for more than 35 years. She was a member of the Eden United Methodist Church in Willards, Md., and the Eden Women’s Group. She was a past member of the Willards Ladies Auxiliary, and in 1976, she was the chairwoman of the cooking shack at the Willards Campground. In 1983, the Willards Lions Club named her Good Citizen of the Year, for her outstanding community service.

Hall will be remembered for her chicken salad recipe, her church breakfast biscuits and her dumplings. She made pounds of those for church breakfasts, luncheons, dinners and Lions Club catered events. She also enjoyed making fudge and cornbread for her family and friends.

Hall was preceded in death by her first husband, Alfred Dennis, on Oct. 19, 1959; her second husband, Chester Hall, on April 9, 2005; her brothers, Calvin, Carl and Russell Esham; and sisters, Elva Moore, Essie Cordrey and Nettie Wootten. She is survived by her stepdaughter, Joyce Redmon, and her husband, Marvin; grandsons, Chester William Downes and his wife, Vicki, and Michael Redmon and his wife, Janice; her great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Brayden Redmon; and many nieces, nephews and good friends, who are left to mourn her passing.

A funeral service and celebration of Hall’s life was scheduled for Nov. 22, 2016, at the Eden United Methodist Church in Willards, Md., with interment to take place in Dennis Cemetery, Willards, Md. Memorial contributions may be made to Eden United Methodist Church; 7283 Main St.; Willards, MD 21874, or to Coastal Hospice; P.O. Box 1733; Salisbury, MD 21802-1733. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Charles Monroe Thomas Harmon, 78, a man of conviction and faith, dedicated to his wife, children and grandchildren, passed away and went home to be with the Lord on Nov. 11, 2016. He was born Feb. 8, 1938, in Frankford, Del., to the late Preston Sylvester Harmon and Catherine E. Andrews Harmon.

Harmon attended William C. Jason High School. Following high school, Harmon served in the U.S. Army, rising to the rank of technical sergeant. He returned home to his wife, to raise three children, and retired as a technician at General Foods. He was born again in September of 1996 and later became an ordained deacon in his beloved church, Trinity Faith Christian Center in Lewes, Del.

Harmon was a very loving husband, father and grandfather, dedicated to his family. He loved fast cars, and enjoyed the drag races and detailing cars.

Harmon was preceded in death by his brothers John Andrews, and Preston Harmon and his wife, Thelma, and a grandson, Gregory Showell II. He is survived by his wife, Laverne Atkins Harmon; three children, Jacqueline Harmon Purnell and her husband, William, of Woodbridge, Va., Janet L. Showell and her husband, Gregory, of Frankford, Del., and Kevin T. Harmon and his wife, Hillary, of Frankford; his mother, Catherine Harmon; five siblings, Hester Harmon of Millsboro, Del., Sherry Hailey of Dagsboro, Del., Dale Harmon of Newark, Del., Terry Harmon and his wife, Judy, of Frankford, and Anthony Harmon and his wife, Roslyn, of Frankford; a sister-in-law, Gloria Andrews; a brother-in-law, Harvey Atkins; five grandchildren, Byron, Janelle, Shawntelle, Kevon and Kemeah; four great-grandchildren, Rashad, Jaela, Byron Jr. and Raegan; a host of nieces, nephews and extended family members; and many friends.

A funeral service and celebration of Harmon’s life were scheduled for Nov. 19, 2016, at Trinity Faith Christian Center, Lewes, Del., officiated by Bishop Arthur D. Jones Jr. Interment was to follow Nov 21, 2016, at the Delaware Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro, Del., with the conferring of military honors. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Joan C. Sheldon, 71, of Millsboro, Del., passed away on Saturday, Nov. 12, 2016, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes, Del. She was born Oct. 14, 1945, a daughter of the late William Kullman and Mary (Masca) Kullman.

Sheldon worked as a paralegal with the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., and had previously worked as an advertising salesperson for the Dan Gaffney Radio Show and as a secretary and receptionist for Millman’s Appliances on Coastal Highway.

Sheldon was preceded in death by her husband, David C. Sheldon, in 2010. She enjoyed and loved her two Bengal cats. Memorial services were scheduled for Nov. 19, 2016, at Conley’s Chapel, Lewes, Del., with inurnment in Conley’s Chapel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to the SPCA; P.O. Box 398; Georgetown, DE 19947. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Michael Eugene “Mike” Abbatiello, 75, of Ocean View, Del., formerly of Long Island, N.Y., passed away unexpectedly on Friday, Nov. 25, 2016, while refereeing a football game in Greenwood, Del. He was born in Queens, N.Y., on Nov. 17, 1941, son of the late Michael Abbatiello and Lucille (Catena) Abbatiello.

Abbatiello attended Archbishop Molloy High School and St. John’s University in New York. He also proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1960 to 1964 during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He married Donna Sterner on Nov. 22, 1967, and they had just celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary.

Abbatiello was a well-loved and respected teacher and coach in the Rocky Point School District in Rocky Point, N.Y., where he worked for more than 30 years. He loved being both a baseball umpire and football referee. Abbatiello was also an active soup-kitchen volunteer at Mariner’s Bethel United Methodist Church in Ocean View, Del., and was a member of the Marine Corps League.

Mike and Donna Abbatiello moved to Ocean View, Del., in 2002, following their retirement.

Abbatiello was known for his avid storytelling, his love of teaching and his proud service to his country. He loved his family more than anything. Abbatiello was incredibly proud of his children, loved spending time with his grandchildren and had an incredible love story with his wife.

Abbatiello is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Donna; three children, Suki Volk and her husband, Kurt, of Wellesley, Mass., Don Abbatiello and his wife, Christine, of Easton, Md., and Jennifer Nein and her husband, Matt, of Georgetown, Del., and six grandchildren, Jacob, Will, Madelyn, Matthew, Elodie and Lilia.

A visitation was scheduled for Nov. 30, 2016, at Melson Funeral Services, with funeral service on Dec. 1, 2016, at Mariner’s Bethel United Methodist Church, both in Ocean View. Interment was to be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to Holt International by visiting www.holtinternational.org; to Marine Corps Toys for Tots by visiting www.toysfortots.org; or to Mariner’s Bethel U.M. Church; 81 Central Ave.; Ocean View, DE 19970. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Joseph J. “Joe” Brady, 83, of Millsboro, Del., passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2016. He was born in Chester, Pa., to the late James Brady and Celia McHale Brady.

Brady was a Korean War veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having earned the rank of sergeant. He retired in 1991 from Sun Oil, where he had worked as a purchasing agent. He and his wife, Janet, moved to Millsboro in 1992 from Wilmington.

Brady was very active in his community, serving as mayor of Millsboro for six years and on the town council for 12 years. He was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, Legion of Honor Shriners International, Lions Club, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Marine Corps League and Tanker Association. He was also a regular at the Millsboro McDonald’s Breakfast Club.

In addition to his parents, Brady was also preceded in death by a son, William C. Collings; a daughter, Julia E. Brady; and four brothers, James, John, Gerard and Michael Brady. He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Janet F. Brady of Millsboro; a daughter, Patricia Patrick and her husband, Steven, of Virginia Beach, Va.; a brother, David D. Brady and his wife, Carol, of Claymont, Del.; a sister, Maryann Kennedy and her husband, Ronald, of Wilmington; two grandchildren, Christina E. Wisniewski and Heather Collings; and five great-grandchildren.

A funeral service was scheduled for Nov. 29, 2016, at the Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro, Del., with burial following in the Millsboro Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial donations to either the Shriner’s Hospital for Children; 3551 N. Broad St; Philadelphia, PA 19140, or to Grace United Methodist Church; P.O. Box 566; Millsboro, DE 19966. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Darrin Trimell Gibbs, 30, was born Jan. 31, 1986, in Lewes, Del., to Darrin T. Taylor and Kelley Gibbs. He died unexpectedly on Thursday, Nov. 17, 2016.

Gibbs, affectionately known as “D.J.,” received his formal education at Phillip C. Showell Elementary, Selbyville Middle and Indian River High schools. He was well mannered, very shy and funny. As the oldest of the four kids, he was very protective of his siblings and loved ones, especially his mother.

As a youth, Gibbs trained in karate and gymnastics and played Pop Warner football. He also enjoyed playing his Xbox and playing with kids, especially his daughter and stepchildren. Gibbs loved being the life of the party. He lived life to the fullest.

Gibbs was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Robert and Grace Taylor; an uncle, Allen Taylor; and his godmother, Elaine McCray. He leaves to cherish great memories his mother, Kelley V. Sturgis of Millsboro, Del.; father, Darrin T. Taylor of Georgetown, Del.; daughter, Tonia N. Perkins of Selbyville, Del.; a sister, Martisha V. Allen and her husband, Anthony, of Lewes, Del.; two brothers, Di’ondre D. Gibbs of Millsboro and Derrell D. Gibbs of Bethany Beach, Del.; his maternal grandparents, James and Sherry Gibbs of Dagsboro, Del.; five aunts, an uncle, a nephew, six nieces and a host of cousins; a very special friend, Tamika Tull of Berlin, Md.; and Shelia Floyd, whom he also called “Mom.”

Services were scheduled for Nov. 26, 2016, at Pilgrim’s Ministry of Deliverance in Georgetown, Del., with interment immediately following at Zoar Golden Acres in Bishopville, Md., officiated by the Rev. Andrew Sellers.

Gary Carmean, 70, of Millsboro, Del., passed away at Delaware Hospice Center on Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016. He was born July 28, 1946, in Millsboro, Del., to the late Frances Carmean.

Carmean was a self-employed general contractor. He attended Zoar United Methodist Church in Millsboro. He enjoyed vegetable gardening, deer hunting, fishing, traveling, boating, bowling, horseshoes and taking cruises. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. He will be missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his mother, Carmean was also preceded in death by a brother, Johnny Carmean, in 1958. He is survived by two daughters, Lori Showard and her fiancé, Terry L. Nichols, of Georgetown, Del., and Myriah Carmean and her fiancé, Zachary Uphold, of Chincoteague, Va.; six siblings, Shirley Davis, Roy F. Rogers, Barry T. Rogers and his wife, Pam, Ralph W. Rogers and his wife, Cindy, Linda R. Neal and her husband, Wayne, and David A. Rogers, all of Millsboro; his grandchildren, Jessica, Jasmine, Lillian, Cody, Tori and Jayden; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Services were to be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial donations to Delaware Hospice; 100 Patriots Way; Milford, DE 19963. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Robert Edwin “Bob” Graves, 86, of Millsboro, Del., a devoted husband, father, brother and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Nov. 27, 2016.

A native of Baltimore, Md., Graves was born Sept. 16, 1930, attended high school at the Baltimore Polytechnic Institute and then graduated from Loyola College with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. He also achieved additional degrees from the University of Baltimore and MIT.

Graves had a distinguished career in the chemical industry, spanning more than 40 years. He started as a research chemist with McCormick & Co. in Baltimore in the 1950s before leaving in 1960 to become a sales manager for Alcolac Chemical Corporation in Baltimore. In 1970, he accepted a job as a sales manager for Balchem Chemical Corporation in Slate Hill, N.Y., and his career with Balchem continued into the 1990s, when he retired.

Having always had an interest in antiques, he and his wife, Joyce, turned that collecting hobby into a business in the 1990s when they established Cranberry House Antiques, which is still in operation.

An avid reader of anything scientific or historical, his greatest literary interest was World War II, with Winston Churchill as his all-time historic hero. Dozens of books regarding “Winnie” line his bookshelves. Because of his interest in reading, Graves was a proud supporter of the Friends of the Millsboro Library, helping their fundraising efforts by assisting with their annual galas and book sales for many years. He also served the Town of Millsboro on the town council for a number of years.

Graves was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Aeonah Graves, and a sister, Norma King. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Joyce (Conaway) Graves; four children, Brad Graves of Finksburg, Md., Kyle Graves and his wife, Christina, of Catonsville, Md., Jennifer Walter and her husband, Mark, of Fairfax, Va., and Brett Graves and his wife, Pam, of Lewes, Del.; eight grandchildren, Meghan Bower, Dayn Graves, Austin Graves, Tom Graves, Courtney Deuchler, Seth Graves, Matthew Walter and Sarah Walter; a sister, Janet Harrison of Jacksonville, Fla.; and seven great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 2, 2016, at Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro, Del., where friends may call one hour prior for visitation with the family. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial donations to the Tunnell Cancer Center; 18947 John J. Williams Hwy.; Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Mary Ann Hallett, 60, of Ellendale, Del., and formerly of Frankford, Del., peacefully departed this life on Friday, Nov. 25, 2016. She was born Sept. 15, 1956, to Pearlis Sturgis Sr. and the late Adelle (Lillard) Mumford.

Known to many as Mary Ann, she had a very caring and giving heart, and she loved children. During her earlier years, she worked as a nurse’s aide and was a daycare provider.

In addition to her mother, Hallett was also preceded in death by her daughter, April Lillard; her grandparents Samuel Chandler, Anna Clara Chandler and Mary Lou Isabelle Cuffee Sturgis; two sisters, Stephanie Mumford and Pearline Sturgis; a brother, Terry Mumford; and a brother-in-law, Kenton Williams. She will lovingly be remembered by a daughter, Tracey Lillard of Salisbury, Md.; three grandchildren who resided with her, Shur`Myra Lillard, Ityré Lillard and Anthony Hood Jr.; seven sisters, Barbara Mumford of Frankford, Del., Deborah Morris of Millsboro, Del., Janice Williams of Millsboro, Samantha Smith and husband, Donnie, of Douglasville, Ga., Deborah Norville of N.C., Lisa Turner and husband, Gilbert, of S.C., and Ingrid Rouzier; eight brothers, Roland Mumford Jr. of Douglasville, Earlest Mumford of Milford, Del., Walter Mumford and his wife, Candy, of Laurel, Del., William Hardy and his wife, Tory. of Millsboro, Pearlis Sturgis Jr. and his wife, Sandra, of Fredericksburg, Va., Craig Sturgis of Georgia, Eric Sturgis of New York and Jordan Jones of California; a great-aunt, Frances Dismuke of Salisbury, Md.; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Friends of the family are welcome to attend the viewing on Friday, Dec. 2, 2016, at 10 a.m. at Calvary Pentecostal Church in Bishopville, Md. The home-going service will begin at 11 a.m., followed by interment at the church before the immediate family proceeds to Woodlawn (Md.) Park Memorial Cemetery. Evangelist Mary Alice Johnson will officiate. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Raymond Carlton Hitch, 78, of Lewes, Del., passed away on Thursday, Nov. 24, 2016, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes, Del. He was born in Wilmington, Del., on April 14, 1938, son of the late Howard Hitch and Irene (Harrison) Hitch.

Hitch was the former vice president of the First Federal Savings & Loans in Wilmington, Del. Upon his retirement from the banking industry, he became a Realtor and broker for Ocean View Real Estate Company in Ocean View, Del. He loved his time at the beach, and enjoyed crabbing, fishing and clamming.

Hitch is survived by his life partner, Jim Jensen; two sons, Blake Hitch and his wife, Jennifer, and Dean Hitch; a brother, Harvey Howard Hitch and his wife, Nancy; a sister, Janice Turcol; a granddaughter, Kristy Rodgers and her husband, Mark; a grandson, Ian Hitch; and a great-granddaughter, Haley Rodgers.

A memorial service was scheduled for Nov. 30, 2016, at the Long Neck Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, Millsboro, Del. Interment was to be private. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Mary Rose Holden, 74, peacefully left this world to be with the Lord on Nov. 16, 2016, at home in Harbeson, Del. She was born Feb. 1, 1942, in Bishopville, Md., to Emma Cater and Lancaster Johnson.

While Hodeln was at the tender age of 8 months, her mother passed away, leaving her to be raised by her loving grandparents, Carrie and Harold Cater. Holden received her education in Berlin, Md.

At 14, she met the love of her live, Henry Holden Jr. The two were married on Aug. 9, 1963. Together the couple had three children, Henry Holden III, Marilyn Gibbs and Emma Gibbs, and two stepchildren, Ruby Marshall and Nathan Henry.

Holden was employed at H&H Poultry for several years, and worked as a personal caregiver and as a private residential cleaner.

Holden was the pillar of her family. She dedicated her life to raising her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed spending time with her best friends, Roxane “Roxy” Morris and Gertrude “Fluke” Thomas. Holden was affectionately called “Granny” by her grandchildren and extended family as well. She loved to tell a good story.

Holden was preceded in death by her daughter, Vernetha Mae Holden and her husband, Henry A. Holden Jr. She is survived by her son, Henry A. Holden III and his wife, Louise; two daughters, Marilyn Gibbs and her husband, Ronald, and Emma Gibbs and her husband, Larry; two stepchildren, Ruby Marshall and Nathan Henry; a goddaughter, Margaret Hopkins and her husband, Robert; a dear cousin, Kevin Mitchell; and 17 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and 25 great-great-grandchildren.

Services were scheduled for Nov. 28, 2016, at Calvary Penecostal Church, Bishopville, Md., with interment following at the church cemetery, officiated by the Rev. Claudia Waters.

Mattie L. Miller, 67, of Georgetown, Del., passed away peacefully on Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016, at Milford Delaware Hospice Center. She was born on Feb. 9, 1949, in Selbyville, Del., daughter of the late Neal C. Cherry and Mattie Mitchell Cherry.

Miller received her education in the Frankford and William Jason High schools. Miller was employed by the Townsends Inc. poultry division for many years before retiring. She then became a dedicated homemaker and daycare provider.

Miller, or “Bean” as she was affectionately known, was a dedicated wife of 46 years to the late Therman B. (“Hon”) Miller, who preceded her in death on Feb. 4, 2013. Together they had four children. Her pastimes included cooking, watching Westerns and game shows, and playing cards with her siblings.

During her Christian journey, Miller was a faithful and dedicated member of the Pentecostal Church of God of Lincoln Inc. in Millsboro, Del., where she was the president of the Church Anniversary Committee, and an active member of the Ministry, Culinary, Pastor’s Aid and Women’s departments.

In addition to her parents and husband, Miller was also preceded in death by a son, Michael B. Miller; a stepdaughter, Bertina DuPont; and four additional siblings. She is survived by her children, Juanita Lewis and her husband, Brantley, of Georgetown, Demaris Miller of Long Neck, Del., the Elder Charity Miller of Wilmington, Del., and Kenisha Miller of Greenwood, Del.; two stepsons, Therman DuPont and his wife, Amanda, of Wilmington, and Terrance DuPont of New Castle, Del.; a stepfather, Wilbert Suggs and his wife, Mattie, of Bridgeville, Del.; four granddaughters, Brandi, Brooklyn, Kennedy and Madison, and numerous others who called her “grandmother”; two sisters, Betty Bryant and her husband, Cleveland, of Selbyville, Del., and Stephanie Showell and her husband, Steve, of Georgetown; six brothers, including Wayde Cherry and his wife, Jean, of Dagsboro, Del., Elmer Cherry and his wife, Delores, of Dover, Del., and Howard Cherry of Georgetown, and stepbrothers, Calvin Suggs and his wife, Starr, of Frankford, Del., Danny Suggs and his wife, Lisa, of Dagsboro and Courtland Suggs and his wife, Nicole, of Felton, Del.

A home-going service and celebration of life were scheduled for Nov. 27, 2016, at Pentecostal Church of God of Lincoln (Del.), Inc., with the Bishop Marion L. Hendricks officiating. Burial was immediately following the service, at the Milford Community Cemetery. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Michael Nacey, 58 of Millsboro, Del., passed away Sunday, Nov., 20, 2016, at the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford. He was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., on Feb. 22, 1958, son of Thomas Nacey and Elizabeth (Knighton) Nacey.

Over the years, he was employed by the City of Rehoboth, The Barn at Five Points, Lowe’s, Food Lion, Grotto Pizza and Conner & Sons Painting. He enjoyed riding mopeds with his wife, Kay, as well as fishing, clamming, crabbing and spending long sunny days at the Lewes beach.

Nacey is survived by his wife of 22 years, Kathryn “Kay” (Welsh) Nacey; his mother, Betty Nacey; sister, Patricia Airhart; brothers, Thomas, James and David Nacey, all of Pittsburgh; a brother, Richard Nacey of Rehoboth Beach, Del.; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date in his hometown of Pittsburgh. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to Delaware Hospice Center; 100 Patriots Way; Milford, DE 19963. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Earl Gilbert Walter, 89, of Severna Park, Md., passed away on Nov. 16, 2016, at the Baltimore Washington Medical Center. He was born on Jan. 1, 1927, in Baltimore, Md., to the late Margaret and Martin Walter.

Walter served his country proudly in the U.S. Navy during World War II as a seaman second-class. He then went on to work for Carrollton Bank and then the Bank of Glen Burnie for 39 years, earning the title of executive vice president. He was a member of the Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce, American Institute of Banking and the Maryland Bankers Association. Walter enjoyed walking the B&A Trail, bowling, golfing and playing Scrabble.

Walter is survived by his devoted wife, Joanne L. Walter; his beloved children, Nancy Walter and her husband, Rick, David Walter and his spouse, Alex, Susan Calianno and her husband, Joe, Mark Walter and his wife, Betsy, Michael Walter and his wife, Erin, and Denise Gibson and her husband, Bart; his loving grandchildren, Matthew and Jonathan Szostek, Daniel Calianno, Amanda Doggett and her husband, Ryan, Michelle Hammack and her husband, Kendall, Christopher Calianno, Laura Walter, Olivia Walter, Isabella Walter, and Cole, Grant and Alexis Gibson; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Kylie, Ryan Doggett Jr., Jacob, Jayla, Kendall J. “K.J.” and Autumn.

A graveside service was held Nov. 29, 2016, Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville, Md. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, at www.cancer.org.

Frank S. Barbour, 62, of Lewes, Del., passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Thursday, Dec 1, 2016, after a long, courageous battle in hospice care. Barbour was born July 12, 1954, in Roanoke Va., the firstborn child of Frank Barbour and Stella (Martin) Barbour.

Barbour was a heavy-equipment operator, employed by several companies in the Mid-Atlantic region. He always had a smile and a witty remark for whomever he met. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, visiting with friends and sharing great conversation.

In addition to his parents, and stepfather, Gordon Stalnecker, Barbour was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, Jimmer Goldey, and his wife, Carol Ann Goldey, and Bruce Goldey, all of Pennsylvania. He will be dearly missed by his loving wife of 36 years, Rose (Goldey) Barbour; his son, Joseph, and his wife, Courtney, of Bear, Del.; his daughter, Kimberly of Georgetown, Del.; three grandchildren, Dylan and Colby Barbour of Georgetown and Teagan of Bear; his two sisters, many brothers- and sisters-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews; a dear friend who he considered a brother, Skip Mosiej; and his loving beagle, Lucy.

Funeral services were scheduled for Dec 5, 2016, at Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro, Del. In lieu of flowers, the family asked for memorial donations to Compassionate Care Hospice; 20165 Office Circle; Georgetown DE 19947, or monetary contributions to Rose Barbour to help defray funeral expenses.

John W. Beach, 93, of Lewes, Del., passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2016, at the Country Rest Home in Greenwood, Del. He was born Thursday, Nov. 29, 1923, in Rehoboth Beach, Del., son of the late John W. Beach and Margaret (Wenyon) Beach.

After graduating from Rehoboth High School in 1941, Beach served three years in the U.S. Army Air Corps before attending the University of Delaware. He was a member the Theta Chi fraternity and active with the college newspaper. In 1949, he transferred to the Charles Morris Price School in Philadelphia, Pa., to study journalism, and later completed his studies in newspaper management at Columbia University.

In 1951, Beach was named editor-manager of the weekly Dover Index in Dover, Del. He continued with it in 1953, when it was merged with the weekly Delaware State News to become a daily newspaper. He served as publisher for a number of years before retiring in 1976. He also served on the Board of Directors of Independent Newspapers Inc. during its initial expansion into Maryland, Florida and Arizona.

In 1970, Beach wrote “Cape Henlopen Lighthouse,” which was on the Delaware bestseller list for several months. A second edition was printed in 1971, and a revised edition with chapters on the Delaware Breakwater was printed in 1979 and 1993. In 1984, he published “This Was Rehoboth Beach,” a collection of “flotsam, jetsam and trivia” of Rehoboth Beach in the 1930s and 1940s. Beach’s third book, “Pirates on the Delaware,” was published in 1993. All of the books are now out of print.

In addition to the books, Beach wrote numerous articles for local and national publications. He continued as a newspaper consultant for a number of years after his official retirement.

Beach was a devoted father, husband and grandfather. He was well-respected on both a personal and professional level. He enjoyed golf and was a former member of the board of directors of both Maple Dale Country Club in Dover and Rehoboth Beach Country Club in Rehoboth.

In addition to his parents, Beach was preceded in death by his oldest son, John W. Beach III; his daughter, Linda Beach; his stepfather, Forrest P. Wenyon; and his sister, Becky Palmer. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 63 years, Jenny (Cooper) Beach; his two sons, David S. Beach and his wife, Jan, of Huntsville, Ala., and Jay D. Beach of Lewes; six grandchildren, Katie Cross, Chad Cross, David Scott Beach, Leah Beach, Chase Beach and Macy Beach; and his nieces, Carole Ann Medd, Lynne Mitchell and Janis Lewes.

The family thanked the staff at the Country Rest Home for their wonderful and loving care, especially the nurse, Jane, and the aide, Blanche.

Services were to be private. Arrangements were being handled by Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes, Del. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to All Saints Church; 18 Olive Ave.; Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, or to Beebe Medical Foundation; 902 Savannah Rd.; Lewes, DE 19958. Condolences may be sent online at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.