Margaret Ellen Massey, also known as “Sis,” departed her life on March 24, 2017, at the age of 85, in her home in Frankford, Del.

In her younger days, Massey did a lot of fieldwork, working for Bob Gray and Ellen McGee. She was also employed at Bunting’s Nursery, Budget Inn and Hampton Inn until she retired at 65 in 1997.

Massey enjoyed watching “Let’s Make A Deal,” “The Price Is Right” and her soap operas, “The Young & the Restless” and “The Bold & the Beautiful.” She loved listening to R&B music, with songs by Tyrese, Anthony Hamilton and Sam Cooke.

Massey was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Margaret Massey; a brother, Willie Massey; and a sister, Virginia Massey. She leaves behind to cherish her memories a daughter, Marie Hodges, and her husband, Joe, of Berlin, Md.; a grandson, Maurice Massey, and his wife, Geraldine, of Frankford; a great-granddaughter, Chikira Massey of Dover, Del.; three sisters, Betty Ann Smith and her husband, Harvey, of Berlin, Graice May Massey of Selbyville, Del., and Barbara Jean Massey and her husband, Rick, of Snow Hill, Md.; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Services and burial were to be private. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Ondera Jerome “O.J.” Johnson Jr., 32, was born on Sept. 12, 1984, to Tammy Maddox and Ondera Johnson Sr. He peacefully entered into eternal rest on March 28, 2017, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes, Del.

Johnson obtained his education at North Penn High in Lansdale, Pa. He had worked several professions throughout the course of his life, mostly at numerous poultry plants. He was working at Allen’s Poultry Plant in Harbeson, Del., until he became ill.

Johnson had a love for all kinds of music, but he especially loved rap music, and it gave him great pleasure to express himself in freestyle, “Spitting those lyrics off the top of his head.” Known as “O.J.” to all who knew him, he enjoyed spending time with his children and family. That always made him smile and full of laughter.

Johnson was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandfather, Albert Hagans Sr.; a paternal great-grandmother, Agnes Duncan; and a paternal grandfather, Alonzo Miles. He leaves to mourn with fond and loving memories his mother, Tammy Maddox, and her husband, George, of Lansdale, Pa.; his father, Ondera Johnson Sr., and his wife, Ellen, of New Castle, Del.; a daughter, Ijanae Johnson of Berlin, Md.; two sons, Jaevyon Johnson and Jahzion Johnson, also of Berlin; two brothers, Martez Johnson and his friend, Ashley, of Lansdale, Pa., and Ondera J. Johnson Jr. II of New Castle, Del.; and two sisters, Tiara Mayfield and her friend, Hakeem, of Lansdale, Pa., and Adera Johnson of New Castle, Del.; two
stepsisters, Chimere Maddox and Chanelle Maddox of Arlington, Va.; his paternal grandmother, Alona Collins, and her husband, Thomas, of Crisfield, Md.; maternal grandparents, Albert Hagans Jr. and his wife, Margaret, of Frankford, Del.; maternal great-grandmother, Margie M. Hagans of Selbyville, Del.; niece and nephew, Ava and Carter Johnson of Lansdale, Pa.; his other mother, Alberta Wolford, of Seaford, Del.; a very special friend, Ericka Oney; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

A funeral service and celebration of Johnson’s life will be held on Saturday, April 8, 2017, at noon, with visitation at 11 a.m., at St. John 2nd Baptist Church, Millsboro, Del. The Rev. Sylvester Briddell will be the officiant. Final disposition will be private.

Denny Lee Layton, 70, of Georgetown, Del., passed away in the care of his long-time companion, Clara Wootten, and the Delaware Hospice, at his home. He was born on Dec. 2, 1946, to the late Jacob Layton and Florence Ellen Jones Layton.

Layton was a truck driver for Mountaire Farms before retiring and was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served for six years in both Korea and Vietnam.

Layton was preceded in death by three siblings, Jean Niblett, James Layton and George Layton. He is survived by three siblings, Ronnie Layton, Francis Layton and Linda Bailey; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and many friends all over Sussex County.

Funeral arrangements and interment were private. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Elizabeth R. “Bette” (Bamburger) Brosnahan Hartman, 86, of Ocean View, Del., passed away peacefully on April 1, 2017. She was born Sept. 12, 1930, in Wilmington, Del., daughter of the late Maximilian Bamburger and Ruth Viola (Vinyard) Bamburger.

Hartman was a graduate of Claymont High School. She was employed as an accountant prior to her retirement. She was a lifetime member and volunteer of the VFW Post 7234 Ladies Auxiliary and the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary. She served as the treasurer for the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. Some of her later years were spent in Florida, prior to returning to Delaware.

Hartman was a devoted and loving wife, mother and grandmother. In her early years, she enjoyed time at the beach with family and friends. All of her life, she loved large family gatherings and cooking big meals for everyone. Hartman also enjoyed reading, sewing, crocheting, crosswords, bingo and shuffleboard. She and her husband liked putting puzzles together while watching the birds gather around the feeder outside. She will be dearly missed by her family.

In addition to her parents, Hartman was preceded in death by her first husband, Cornelius Brosnahan, and a son, Bruce Brosnahan. She is survived by her husband, Harold Hartman; children, Carol Joseph, Kevin Brosnahan and his wife, Linda, Terry Smith and her husband, David, David Brosnahan and his wife, Stacey, and Janice Brosnahan; 10 grandchildren, Jeff Joseph and his wife, Haylee, Maria McClarin and her husband, James, Neil Brosnahan and his wife, Ashley, Lauire Hackett and her husband, Jon, Nate Brosnahan, Justin Brosnahan, Michael Cordrey and his wife, Heather, Elizabeth Walker and her husband, David, Megan Brosnahan, and Eric Brosnahan and his wife, Cassandra; 19 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; and her companion dog Smiley.

Burial was to be private. The family plans to hold a celebration of her life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Delaware Hospice Center; 100 Patriots Way; Milford, DE 19963. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Marie R. Fulton, 79, of Dagsboro, Del., formerly of Ridley Township, Pa., passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Friday, March 31, 2017, at Christiana Care Hospital in Newark, Del.

Fulton was born in south Philadelphia, Pa., on Oct. 14, 1937, daughter of the late Noble Manzi and Grace (DeFranco) Manzi. She had worked various jobs throughout her life, but Fulton prided herself on being a homemaker and raising five children.

She and her husband, Jim, traveled the world together, visiting 43 countries and most of the United States. Fulton also bowled for more than 40 years with various bowling leagues, was part of two different prayer groups, and also enjoyed playing cards. Fulton was also a member of the Red Hat Society, enjoyed riding her bike, kayaking, playing pickleball and line dancing. She was devoted to her family and would often talk about how, in each generation of her family, there were only four females, because Fulton had four daughters, four granddaughters and four great-granddaughters.

In addition to her parents, Fulton was preceded in death by her husband, James A. Fulton, in 2015; two sisters, Alma Gallagher and Rita Sankey; and two brothers, Buddy Manzi and Rocky Manzi. She is survived by five children, James A. Fulton Jr. and his wife, Joanne, Deborah Gallone and her husband, Joseph, Kathleen Milewski and her husband, Kenny, Diane Fulton and Dallas Hathcock, and Christina Sabin and her husband, Michael; 11 grandchildren, Nicole Fulton, Anthony Fulton, Kenny Milewski, David Fulton, Ricky Milewski, Joseph Gallone, Amanda Gallone, Michael Strolli, Stephan Strolli, Hope Sabin and Katarina Milewski; and seven great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, April 10, 2017, at noon at St. Ann Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach, Del., with a visitation starting at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Millsboro, Del. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by visiting www.stjude.org. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

George D. Doxzen Jr., 67, of Dagsboro, Del., died Monday, March 27, 2017, at home. He was born in Baltimore, Md., son of the late George D. Doxzen Sr. and Violet R. (Brooks) Doxzen.

Doxzen retired from work as a safety engineer after 34 years with Constellation Energy. He was an Evangelical Christian who shared his faith with others. Doxzen was a graduate of Dundalk High School’s Class of 1967.

Doxzen is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife, Christine (Carter) Doxzen of Dagsboro; a son, George D. Doxzen III and his wife, Gabrielle, of Dundalk, Md.; a daughter, Jessica DeLynne Bowman, and her husband, Jason, of Frankford, Del.; four grandchildren, MacLere N. Lucich, Rachael DeLynne Elmore and her husband, Shane, Brianna R. Lucich and Natalie R. Doxzen; and a great-grandchild, Tara Elizabeth Elmore.

No services were planned at this time. Condolences may be sent online at www.bishophastingsfh.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Liver Foundation; 39 Broadway, Ste. 2700; New York, NY 10006.

Phyllis Long Donaway, 72, of Frankford, Del., passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, March 30, 2017, at her home. She was born in Dagsboro, Del., on July 21, 1944, daughter of the late Everett Lewis Gray Sr. and Lettie (Timmons) Gray.

Donaway retired from work as a Realtor with Crowley Associates Realty in Bethany Beach, Del., in 2014, after 15 years of employment.

Her true passion was antiquing. She would spend countless hours going to yard sales to find a special treasure. She also enjoyed knitting and crocheting and listening to country music.

In addition to her parents, Donaway was preceded in death by her brother, E. Lewis Gray, in December of 2016. She is survived by a son, Mark King and his girlfriend, Kimi Kollock, of Frankford; a daughter, Robin Gardiner and her husband, Jerry, of Dover, Del.; a grandson, Dylan King and his wife, Mariah, currently stationed at Dover Air Force Base; two great-grandchildren, Rylynne and Piper King; a sister, Edna Wyatt of Millsboro, Del.; Joe Gray and his wife, Doris, of Old Hickory, Tenn.; a sister-in-law, Elma Gray of Frankford; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service was scheduled for April 4, 2017, at Roxana Cemetery in Frankford, Del. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to Delaware Hospice; 100 Patriots Way; Milford, DE 19963. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Raymond ‘Ray’
Frank Cubbler, 88

Raymond “Ray” Frank Cubbler, 88, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 26, 2017, at the Delaware Veterans Home in Milford, Del. He was born Dec. 28, 1928, in Montgomery County, Pa., and had previously resided in Pennsauken, N.J., and Frankford, Del.

Cubbler was the seventh of 10 children. The family relocated to New Jersey when he was 1, and most of his childhood was spent in and around Atlantic City. His teen years took the family to Pennsauken, where he graduated from Moorestown High School after studying agriculture at Camden County Vocational School. He served in the U.S. Navy and then settled into a life dedicated to raising his son and caring for his parents until their passing.

Cubbler moved to a retirement community in Medford Lakes, N.J., at 65, but continued to work full-time. In 1998, Cubbler moved to Frankford to be closer to his sister. In 2013, he entered the Delaware Veterans Home in Milford, where he enjoyed a loving environment until he went home to be with his Lord.

Wherever Ray Cubbler lived, worked, attended church or participated in his community, he made friends with his endearing demeanor, a refreshing authenticity and his unwavering dedication to whatever task he took on. He retired from RCA in 1997 after a long career.

His earlier hobbies included scouting with his son, serving as treasurer of Troop 118 of Grace Church in Merchantville. Daily Bible reading and participation in church activities were an important part of his life, most recently at St Martin’s in-the-Field Episcopal Church in Selbyville, Del., where he loved greeting and ushering.

“Uncle Ray” never missed a family gathering, and his dozens of nieces and nephews remember sharing their milestone events with him. Having nine grandchildren of his own was a source of tremendous pride for him, and he marveled at hearing news of them as they grew up and began families of their own. He will be sadly missed by friends and family.

Cubbler was preceded in death by his parents, Earl Cubbler and Evelyn (Mills) Cubbler; brothers, Charles, Vernon and Richard; sisters, Grayce Bolinger, Dorothy Grover, Janet Blazer, Miriam Canning and Cecile Bolinger. He is survived by his son, Vernon Cubbler, and his wife, Jodi, of Belton, S.C.; a sister, Marjorie Cubbler Black of Orlando, Fla.; nine

Raymond “Ray” Frank Cubbler, 88, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 26, 2017, at the Delaware Veterans Home in Milford, Del. He was born Dec. 28, 1928, in Montgomery County, Pa., and had previously resided in Pennsauken, N.J., and Frankford, Del.

Cubbler was the seventh of 10 children. The family relocated to New Jersey when he was 1, and most of his childhood was spent in and around Atlantic City. His teen years took the family to Pennsauken, where he graduated from Moorestown High School after studying agriculture at Camden County Vocational School. He served in the U.S. Navy and then settled into a life dedicated to raising his son and caring for his parents until their passing.

Cubbler moved to a retirement community in Medford Lakes, N.J., at 65, but continued to work full-time. In 1998, Cubbler moved to Frankford to be closer to his sister. In 2013, he entered the Delaware Veterans Home in Milford, where he enjoyed a loving environment until he went home to be with his Lord.

Wherever Ray Cubbler lived, worked, attended church or participated in his community, he made friends with his endearing demeanor, a refreshing authenticity and his unwavering dedication to whatever task he took on. He retired from RCA in 1997 after a long career.

His earlier hobbies included scouting with his son, serving as treasurer of Troop 118 of Grace Church in Merchantville. Daily Bible reading and participation in church activities were an important part of his life, most recently at St Martin’s in-the-Field Episcopal Church in Selbyville, Del., where he loved greeting and ushering.

“Uncle Ray” never missed a family gathering, and his dozens of nieces and nephews remember sharing their milestone events with him. Having nine grandchildren of his own was a source of tremendous pride for him, and he marveled at hearing news of them as they grew up and began families of their own. He will be sadly missed by friends and family.

Cubbler was preceded in death by his parents, Earl Cubbler and Evelyn (Mills) Cubbler; brothers, Charles, Vernon and Richard; sisters, Grayce Bolinger, Dorothy Grover, Janet Blazer, Miriam Canning and Cecile Bolinger. He is survived by his son, Vernon Cubbler, and his wife, Jodi, of Belton, S.C.; a sister, Marjorie Cubbler Black of Orlando, Fla.; nine grandchildren, Sandra Abreu and her husband, Aaron, of Gaston, N.C., Matthew and his wife, Julie, of Lugoff, S.C., Jennifer of Charleston, S.C., Luke and his wife, Pam, of Camden, S.C., Melissa Hinkle of Kershaw, S.C., Stephen of Vienna, W.Va., Susanna of Daniel Island, S.C., Patricia “Gracie” Cubbler and Sean Haskins of Columbia, S.C., and Katherine Cubbler of Vienna, W.Va.; and nine great-grandchildren.

Memorial services were to be announced at a later date. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Betty Jo Collins, 86, of Millsboro, Del., went to be with her loved ones on Tuesday, March 28, 2017. She was the daughter of the late Ben and Cora Dorey.

She was a secretary, homemaker and his wife, which filled her life with joy. She retired from the Sussex County Tax Department. She lived all of her life surrounded by family on Zoar Road in Millsboro.

Collins was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Donald T. Collins. She is survived by her sister, Thelma D. Monroe, and her children, Andrea Bishop, Christie Butterworth, Donna Collins, Corali Williamson and Kevin Collins. She was a grandmother of 17 and a great-grandmother of four.

Services were scheduled for April 2, 2017, at Watson Funeral Home in Millsboro, Del., with burial in Millsboro Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Zoar United Methodist Church; c/o Carisa Pepper; 24491 Gravel Hill Rd.; Millsboro, DE 19966. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Charles Eugene Bowden, 63, of Frankford, Del., passed away at his residence on April 1, 2017, in the care of his family and the nurses of Compassionate Care Hospice. He was born on Oct. 4, 1953, in Salisbury, Md., to the late Charles L. Bowden and Rada B. Donaway Bowden.

Bowden was a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School in Berlin, Md., and had retired from work as a grain operator for Mountaire Farms. He was the father of two children and loved camping and fishing. He was an avid Redskins fan and loved NASCAR. Jimmy Johnson was his favorite race car driver.

Bowden is survived by his children, Eric E. Bowden and his companion, Shana M. Bowden, of Frankford, and Christina Coffin of Willards, Md.; his siblings, Jerry L. Bowden and his wife, Shirley, of Stockton, Md., Janet L. Bowden and her companion, Diana Jones, of Frankford, and Wanda Mumford of Frankford; six grandchildren; several nieces, cousins and many friends; and his beloved canine friend Hannah.

A graveside service was scheduled for April 6, 2017, at Carey’s Cemetery, Millsboro, Del. The Rev. Donnie Bailey of Pitts Creek Baptist Church in Pocomoke, Md., will officiate. Floral tributes are welcome, or the family suggested memorial contributions to the Compassionate Care Hospice; 21165 Office Cir.; Georgetown, DE 19947. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Mark John Sienkiewicz, 80, of Bear, Del., died on March 31, 2017, of complications from dementia and a broken hip.

He was born at home on his family’s farm in Dornsife, Pa., and attended a one-room grade school on the farm property. He graduated from Trevorton High School, and after working at several different jobs in various places, he came to Delaware to work at the Chrysler plant in Newark. His tenure was interrupted by military service, where he was a signal specialist and after which he returned to Chrysler to work as a pipefitter until he retired. He was a life-long member of the United Auto Workers Union.

In 1962, Sienkiewicz married the former Mary Lou MacLean and subsequently raised two sons. He was a multi-talented person who could build and fix anything. One of his greatest joys was using his skills to help others. He would freely help anyone who needed a helping hand, whether to plow snow, cut grass, provide a spare part or lend an unusual tool, until his ability was slowly destroyed by his disease.

“With his passing, my wonderful husband has joined our wonderful son. He was a very supportive and loving husband and an excellent and devoted father. He was the hero in the story of my life, and we will miss him deeply,” said his wife.

Sienkiewicz was preceded in death by his older son, Mark Sienkiewicz Jr., as well as most of his family, including his parents, Jerome Sienkiewicz and Meta (Lesher) Sienkiewicz; stepmother, Nellie (Niedzwiecki) Sienkiewicz; brothers Leon and his wife, Julia Chichilla, Henry and his wife, Elizabeth Elston, Raymond, Gerald and his wife, Mary Fukaczewski, John and his wife, Gertrude Fukaczewski, and Thomas.

Sienkiewicz is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary Lou Sienkiewicz of Bear, Del.; a son, Matthew, and his wife, Anna, and their two sons, Joseph and Jacob Sienkiewicz, of Sparks, Md.; a daughter-in-law, Carolyn (Ratley) Sienkiewicz of Halethorpe, Md.; a half-brother, James of Shamokin, Pa.; sister and brother-in-law Susan and Robert Malesic of Harrisburg, Pa.; sister and brother-in-law Doris (MacLean) Pomidor and Bernard Pomidor Sr.; and many nieces and nephews, including Mary Eshelman and her husband, David, Elizabeth Santos and Bernard Pomidor Jr., and Michelle Phillipi.

A viewing was set for April 10, 2017, with funeral service on April 11, at Beeson Funeral Home, Newark, Del. A committal service with military honors was to follow at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear, Del.

Hazel M. Baker, 87, of Gumboro, Del., passed away on Tuesday, April 4, 2017. She was born in Millsboro, Del., on May 1, 1929, to the late George W. and Ruth Bowden Dorey.

Baker was a homemaker and helped out with chickens and pigs on the family farm. She loved gardening, baking and making everything homemade. She was very friendly and enjoyed talking to her friends on the phone. If someone was in need, Baker was the type of person who would always lend a helping hand. She was a member of Carey’s United Methodist Church and also attended Gumboro and Bethel United Methodist churches.

In addition to her parents, Baker was also preceded in death by her husband, Paul W. Baker, in 1987; a brother, E. Lee Dorey; and a sister-in-law, Coleta Dorey. She is survived by three daughters, Linda J. Davis and her husband, Ronald, of Gumboro, Janet M. Clendaniel and her husband, David, of Magnolia, Del., and Paula A. White and her husband, Jeff, of Gumboro; two brothers, Ralph Dorey and his wife, Josephine, and J. Reese Dorey and his wife, Esther, all of Millsboro, Del.; and two grandchildren, David W. Clendaniel II and Sara M. Clendaniel.

A viewing and funeral service were scheduled for April 10, 2017, at Watson Funeral Home, with burial at Millsboro Cemetery, both in Millsboro, Del. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial donations to Gumboro Community Center, c/o Ronald Davis; 23275 Bethel Rd.; Frankford, DE 19945, or to Cheer Meals on Wheels; 546 S. Bedford St.; Georgetown, DE 19947, or to Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care; 220 Continental Dr., Ste. 407; Newark, DE 19713. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Gracie P. Bailey, 78, of Frankford, Del., passed away and went home to be with the Lord on Palm Sunday, April 9, 2017. Jesus had her come home on a beautiful sunny day to spend Easter with Him and her loving husband, Orville. Bailey was born in Deep Creek, Va., on Feb. 24, 1939, daughter of the late William Parks and Merle (Johnson) Parks.

Bailey married the love of her life, William Orville Bailey Sr., in 1955. She had worked for many years at various garment factories on the Eastern Shore. In 1977, the couple moved to Frankford, Del., and started Bailey’s Seafood, which is still in full operation today.

Bailey loved going to bingo, paint-nights and shopping trips with her children on holidays. She also had a passion for thrift stores.

In addition to her parents, Bailey was preceded in death by the love of her life, William Orville Bailey Sr., on Jan. 9, 2017; two brothers, Woody and Stanley Parks of Virginia; and two sisters, Mary Alice Phillips and Lillian Mae Thornes, also of Virginia. She is survived by her seven children, Penny Lewis and her husband, Jimmy Lewis Sr., of Frankford, Kim Brewington and her husband, Eddie Brewington III, of Dagsboro, Del., Betty Grace Eskridge and her husband, Mike, of Bridgeville, Del., Lillian Bailey and her partner, Tommy, of Frankford, Cheryl Workman and her husband, Dennis, of Frankford, Marybeth Dear and Dorsey Dear Jr., of Frankford, and William Orville “Bud” Bailey Jr. of Frankford; 13 grandchildren, Jamie Lewis Jr., Kelly Lewis, Ashleigh Lewis, Heather Hudson, George Brewington IV, Heaven Howard, Robbie Howard III, Jordan Workman Sr., Megan Workman, Dorsey Dear III, Joshua Dear, William O. Bailey III and Zachary Bailey; 18 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Bill Parks, and his wife, Betty Jean, of Onancock, Va.

The family expressed their appreciation to Delaware Hospice for the loving and caring support Bailey received for the last few weeks.

A visitation and funeral service were scheduled for April 13, 2017, at Melson Funeral Services, Frankford, Del. Interment was to follow at St. George’s Cemetery in Clarksville, Del. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Thomas M. Atkins, 75, of Millsboro, Del., passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, at his home on Sunday, April 9, 2017. He was born in Millsboro on July 18, 1941, son of the late Jacob Atkins and Emma (Hitchens) Atkins. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army.

Atkins retired from DuPont Company in Seaford, Del., in 1991, with 34 years of service. He loved the outdoors and spending time at Hatteras and the Outer Banks in North Carolina. He loved fishing and hunting, and was a member of the Burnt Swamp Sportsmen’s Association in Gumboro, Del., and the American Legion Post 24 in Dagsboro, Del.

In addition to his parents, Atkins was preceded in death by a brother, Jacob Atkins, and a sister, Joyce Long. He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Terry (Mears) Atkins; a son, Brian Atkins and his partner, Susan Clarkson, of Georgetown, Del.; a daughter, Crystal Trout and her husband, Eric, of Pennsylvania; a brother, Harvey Atkins of Delmar, Del.; a sister, Deborah Brandner of Millsboro; his mother-in-law, Sylvia Mears of Dagsboro; his caregiver of more than a year, Beth Tolson of Laurel, Del.; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at noon on Friday, April 14, 2017, with visitation starting at 11 a.m., at Melson Funeral Services, 43 Thatcher Street, Frankford, Del. Interment will follow at Dagsboro’s Redmen Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to Compassionate Care Hospice; 20165 Office Cir.; Georgetown, DE 19947. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Denver Lee Wootten, 85, of Millsboro, Del., passed away on Wednesday, April 12, 2017, in the comfort of his home and his family.

He was born in Whitesville, Del., on Aug. 2, 1931, to the late Herman and Carrie Scott Wootten. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a brother, Linford Wootten, and a sister, Hilda Smith.

He was a U.S. Navy Korean War veteran. Wootten retired from C. C. Oliphant & Son Roofing, where he worked for over 30 years. He was devoted to his wife, and wherever she was, he was too. He enjoyed hunting deer and rabbits as well as fishing. He also enjoyed horses and loved watching John Wayne movies. He had a wonderful personality, never cross, but was calm, kind and never raised his voice.

Wootten is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Helen Parsons Wootten of Millsboro; a son, Stephen Denver Wootten and his wife, Leslie, of Laurel, Del.; sister, Nettie Ellingsworth of Georgetown, Del.; sister-in-law, Pat Lathbury and her husband, Jerry, of Frankford, Del.; niece, Stacey Grez and her husband, Nick, and their daughter, Keelie Grez; three granddaughters, Sarah, Laura and Allison; and four great-grandchildren, Finn, Kael, Sawyer and Saylor.

A funeral service was scheduled for April 18, 2017, at Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro, Del.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Delaware Hospice; 100 Patriots Way; Milford, DE 19963.

Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Denver Lee Wootten, 85, of Milsboro, Del., passed away on Wednesday, April 12, 2017, in the comfort of his home an his family.

He was born in Whitesville, Del., on Aug. 2, 1931 to the late Herman and Carrie Scott Wootten. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Linford Wootten, and a sister, Hilda Smith.

He was a U.S. Navy Korean War veteran. Wootten retired from C. C. Oliphant & Son Roofing, where he worked for over 30 years. He was devoted to his wife, and wherever she was, he was too. He enjoyed hunting deer and rabbits as well as fishing. He also enjoyed horses and loved watching John Wayne movies. He had a wonderful personality, never cross, but was calm, kind and never raised his voice.

Wootten is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Helen Parsons Wootten of Millsboro; a son, Stephen Denver Wootten and his wife, Leslie, of Laurel, Del.; sister, Nettie Ellingsworth of Georgetown, Del.; sister-in-law, Pat Lathbury and her husband, Jerry, of Frankford, Del.; niece, Stacey Grez and her husband, Nick, and their daughter, Keelie Grez; three granddaughters, Sarah, Laura and Allison; and four great-grandchildren, Finn, Kael, Sawyer and Saylor.

A funeral service was scheduled for April 18, 2017, at Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro, Del.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Delaware Hospice; 100 Patriots Way; Milford, DE 19963.

Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Leslie C. Shields, 44, passed away on Tuesday, April 11, 2017.

Shields was born in Cheverly, Md., on May 14, 1972, to John Ridley Shields Jr. and Beverly Shields-Mahaffey. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, John Ridley Shields Sr.

She is survived by her parents, John Ridley Shields Jr. and his wife, Susan, of Crofton, Md., and Beverly Shields-Mahaffey and her husband, Redge Mahaffey, of Davidsonville, Md.; two children, Mackenzie C. Daisey of Davidsonville, Md., and Logan S. Daisey of Millsboro, Del.; their father, Chip Daisey Jr. of Georgetown, Del.; paternal grandmother, Phyllis Miller of Florida; maternal grandparents, Janette and Robert West of Columbia, Md.; sister, Sarah Shields and her husband, Joseph Dillingham, of Ridgewood, N.Y.; aunt and uncle, Roxanne and Benny McMichael of Columbia, Md.; stepbrothers, Travis Mahaffey, Ryan Mahaffey and Ramsey Mahaffey; step-sister, Morgan Mahaffey; by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 22, 2017, at Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington Street, Millsboro, Del., where friends may call after 2 p.m. for visitation. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to The Harbour School; 1277 Green Holly Dr.; Annapolis, MD 21409.

Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Paul Kendall “Ken” Sharp Jr., 78, of Dagsboro, Del., formerly of Wilmington, Del., passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 13, 2017, at Harrison Senior Living in Georgetown, Del.

He was born in Wilmington on March 11, 1939, son of the late Paul Kendall Sharp Sr. and Frances (Ferguson) Sharp. He retired from DuPont Company and DuPont Merck with over 30 years of service.

Sharp was a Fourth Degree Knight with Knights of Columbus, Bishop James C. Burke Council #11285, Millsboro, Del.; a member of AMVETS Post 2 in Millsboro; and a member of Mary Mother of Peace Catholic Church in Millsboro. He was also past president of Indian River Senior Center for five years and was instrumental in the building of the senior center. He loved traveling, boating and spending time with his family.

Sharp is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Susan (Corbishley) Sharp; three children, Stephanie Feller and her husband, Tom, of Magnolia, Del., Paul E. Sharp Sr. and his wife, Judy, of Newark, Del., and Christopher Sharp and his wife, Mona, of Elkton, Md.; a sister, Carol Guyer of Wilmington; a brother, Hank Sharp of Newark; nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian burial was scheduled for April 18, 2017, at Mary Mother of Peace Catholic Church, 30839 Mount Joy Rd., Millsboro, Del. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Vincent de Paul Society at St. Michael the Archangel/Mary Mother of Peace Parish; 202 Edward St.; Georgetown, DE 19947, or to Indian River Senior Center; 214 Irons Ave.; Millsboro, DE 19966.

Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Mary Elizabeth Scott, 73, of Millsboro, Del., passed away on Thursday, April 13, 2017, at Delaware Hospice Center in Milford, with her husband and family at her side.

Scott was born in Daviess County, Ky. on July 4, 1943, and was raised in Steubenville, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Dean and Dorothy Barthold Dean; her brother, Roger Dean; and her daughter, Deborah Mann.

Scott attended Kentucky Christian College after high school and worked in several jobs before she left Ohio. She met her husband, Charles B. Scott Jr., at a 1981 business meeting in Seven Springs, Pa. The couple corresponded and courted until their marriage on June 16, 1984. Scott worked for several years at Town & Country TV and Appliance in Millsboro, and later worked as a clerk for the Town of Millsboro until her retirement in 2010. She was a member of Zoar United Methodist Church in Millsboro and an active member of United Methodist Women. She always had a smile and a kind and encouraging word for everyone. Many in the community benefitted from her care and kindness to them. She enjoyed sending cards and notes of encouragement, and they blessed all recipients.

She is survived by her loving husband of 32 years, Charles B. “Chuck” Scott of Millsboro; her son-in-law, Ken Mann and his wife, Cindy; grandson, Kristofer Mann and his girlfriend, Helen Grubb; grandson, Joe Smakula; and nephew, Bryan Lash, all from Ohio; her parents-in-law, Charles B. Sr. and Margaret West Scott of Millsboro; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 20, 2017, at Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington Street, Millsboro, Del., where friends may call at 12 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Delaware Hospice; 100 Patriots Way; Milford, DE 19963, or to Zoar United Methodist Church, c/o Carisa Pepper; 24463 Gravel Hill Rd.; Millsboro, DE 19966.

Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Jacqueline “Jackie” T. Rogers, 77, of Bishopville, Md., died Tuesday, April 11, 2017, at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin, Md. She was born in Bishopville, Md., daughter of the late Oliver A. and Ruth (Daye) Tingle.

She had been a customer service representative for many years and a homemaker. Rogers was a life member of the Bishopville Vol. Fire Co.
Ladies Auxiliary and a member of Wilson United Methodist Church and the Women of Wilson in Bishopville.

She is survived by her husband of 59 years, William P. Rogers Sr. of Bishopville; her children, Patricia R. Jackson and husband, Jay, of Newark, Susan R. Stant of Berlin, Md., William P. Rogers Jr. of Bishopville, Md., and Andrew O. Rogers of Berlin; a sister, Gail Wainwright and husband, Ellis, of Berlin; a brother, Edward W. Tingle and wife, Joanne, of Bishopville; eight grandchildren, Bryan Rogers and wife, Tina, Beth Tellier and husband, Jared, Brittani Rogers, Christopher Stant, Andrew Rogers, Jeffrey Stant and wife, Tatjana, Blaire Jackson and Haley Rogers; three great-grandchildren, Tegan Rogers, Riley Rogers and Emerson Gray; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a grandson, James Jackson; great-granddaughters, Amelia and Adeline Tellier; a brother, Oliver “Skip” Tingle; and a sister, Gloria Littleton.

A funeral service was scheduled for April 15, 2017, at Bishop-Hastings Funeral Home, Selbyville, Del., with the Rev. Paul Sherwood officiating and burial in Bishopville (Md.) Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Women of Wilson; PO Box 375; Bishopville, MD 21813.

Condolences may be sent online at www.bishophastingsfh.com.