Willard E. “Bill” Pruitt III, 76, of Bethany Beach, Del., died suddenly on Monday, April 10, 2017.

A native Delawarean, Pruitt was born in Wilmington on Dec. 21, 1940, son of the late Willard E. Pruitt Jr. and Marion (Marvel) Pruitt. He was a graduate of A.I. DuPont High School. A proud veteran of the U.S. Army, Pruitt served in the Old Guard at Arlington Cemetery, were he led Black Jack, the riderless horse who was famous for his involvement in more than 1,000 armed forces burials, most notably the interment of President John F. Kennedy. After his honorable discharge, Pruitt worked as a pipefitter and maintenance planner for General Chemical in Claymont, Del., retiring after 33 years of employment.

Active in his community, Pruitt was a longtime member of Lafayette Lodge No. 14 A.F. & A.M., Delaware Consistory, Nur Temple Shrine, Masonic Motorcycle Club, Legion Riders and the Blue Knights Delaware Chapter 1. Above all else, he was a devoted and loving husband, father, brother and grandfather who enjoyed spending time with family and friends and riding his beloved Harley. Pruitt will be lovingly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Theresa F. “Terri” (Gerger) Pruitt; daughters, Lori Mitchem and husband, Bob, of Middletown, Del., and Nicole Pruitt and husband, Adam, of Bear, Del.; sisters, Ellen Pearce and husband, Jack, of New Castle, Del., and Joan Williams and husband, Tom, of Smyrna, Del.; grandchildren, Kourtney Mitchem and Jake Greenwood; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and close friends.

A visitation was scheduled for April 18, 2017, with funeral service on April 19, 2017, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, New Castle, Del. Interment will follow in the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear, Del.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to Be The Match; 500 N 5th St.; Minneapolis, MN 55401-1206.

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

Milton G. Lynch, 88, of Dagsboro, Del., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 12, 2017, surrounded by family at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes, Del. He was born July 25, 1928, in Williamsville, Del., to the late Charlie W. and Mildred (Bunting) Lynch.

Lynch had a tremendous life. After serving in Korea from 1947 to 1948, he married his wife, Jean, in 1950, and together they had four children. An avid fisherman and hunter in his youth, Lynch was happiest while outdoors. He enjoyed many years of planting flowers, fruits and vegetables in his garden and frequented Millsboro Lanes, where he bowled. A devoted Phillies and Eagles fan, he loved watching his favorite teams play ball.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Jean V. Lynch; their children, Robert Lynch, Bruce Lynch and wife, Carol, Donna DiNubile and Cheryl Wolff and her husband, Bill; a brother, Clifton Lynch; and nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, all whom loved him greatly.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Winfred and Preston Lynch.

The family would like to give special thanks to the ICU Nursing staff at Beebe for all of their efforts and care.

“We will always carry your memory in our hearts, Milt. We love you.”

A service was scheduled for April 18, 2017, at Bishop-Hastings Funeral Home in Selbyville, Del., with the Pastor Robert Kirby officiating. Burial followed at Roxana (Del.) Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Georgetown SPCA; 22918 Dupont Blvd.; Georgetown, DE 19947, or to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society; PO Box 4261; Pittsfield, MA 01202.

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

Albert Lee Hagans Jr., 69, was born on Nov. 10, 1947, in Middlesex, N.C., to the late Albert Hagans Sr., and Margie M. Hagans. With his wife by his bedside, he passed away and peacefully entered into eternal rest on April 12, 2017, at his home in Frankford, Del.

Also known as “Al” or “Daddy H,” he obtained his education at William C. Jason High School in Georgetown, Del. Hagans had worked several professions throughout the course of his life, but construction was what he knew best. He drove trucks for Jarmon’s Construction, Jim Swan Construction and Mountaire in Selbyville, Del.

Hagans had a passion for riding bikes (motorcycles). This passion led him to join one of the local bike clubs known as the Black Knights. He was one of the first original 18 club members. One of Hagans’ favorite pastime was going out on his boat and fishing.

He is preceded in death by his father, Albert Hagans Sr.; his brother, Richard Hagans; a grandson, Ondera “O.J.” Johnson Jr.; one nephew, Sylvester A. Briddell Jr.; one great-nephew, Elijah L. Foreman Jr.; and one great-niece Moniah Briddell.

He leaves to mourn with fond and loving memories, his wife, Margaret Hagans; mother, Margie M. Hagans of Selbyville; four daughters, Alberta Wolford and husband, Dwayne, of Seaford, Del., Tammy Maddox and husband, George, of Lansdale, Pa., Ashley Taylor and her friend, Branden, of Frankford, Del., and Angelica Locklear and husband, Justin, of Holly Ridge, N.C.; two sons, Albert Hagans III of Millsboro, Del., and Timothy Hagans and wife, Sonya, of Camden-Wyoming, Del.; four brothers, Moses Hagans of Selbyville, Robbie Hagans and wife, Vanessa of Georgetown, Del., Donnie Hagans of Selbyville and Jackie Hagans and wife, Lisa, of Selbyville; and two sisters, Marjorie James and husband, Leonard, of Selbyville and Ruby Briddell and husband, Sylvester, of Selbyville; seven grandchildren, Alana, DaShanna, Martez, Tiara, Timothy Jr., Kamyle and Alise; ten great-grandchildren, Jamiriah, Anala, Zariyah, Adrian, Julian, Ijanae, Jaevyon, Jahzion, Ava, and Carter; his favorite sister-in-law, Elizabeth Smith; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Family and friends may call for viewing and visitation Saturday, April 22, 2017, at 12 p.m. at Calvary Pentecostal Church, 113 North Worcester Highway, Bishopville, Md. The celebration of life service will begin at 1 p.m. Interment will be at the Zoar Golden Acres Cemetery, Bishopville, Md. Pastor Sylvester Briddell will officiate.

Condolences may be sent online at watsonfh.com.

Richard Gros, 67, passed away at his home on Dec. 24, 2016. Born in Passaic, N.J., on Sept. 29, 1949, he was the son of the late John Gros and Augusta Veenema.

He married Linda Frey on Feb. 26, 1972, and to this union three children were born: Richard Jr., Christopher and Daniel Gros.

Gros was a devoted father and husband. He was very friendly and made friends quickly. He was a good person and helped people when he could. He was a United States Army veteran, a member of the Upper Greenwood Lake Ambulance Squad, member of Hawthorne Fire Company #3 and operations manager for Pequanock Disposal.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Paul Torma and George Gros.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Linda Gros; three sons, Richard Gros Jr. and his wife, Patricia, of Ridgewood, N.J., Christopher Gros and his wife, Ellen, of Ellenville, N.Y., and Daniel Gros and his wife, Stephanie, of Vernon, N.J.; one sister, Georgia Cina and husband, Sal, of Lodi, N.J.; and nine grandchildren, Vincent, Jacob, Jared, Haley, Ryan, Tyler, Johnathan, Matthew and Isabella.

A memorial service and interment will be held on April 22, 2017, at 11 a.m., at Northern New Jersey Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 75 North Church Road, Sparta, N.J.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Northern New Jersey Veterans Cemetery (email nnjvmc75@gmail.com) or Compassionate Care Hospice; 20165 Office Cir.; Georgetown, DE 19947.

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

Robert Wayne Evans, 61, of Millsboro, Del., passed away at home with his beloved canine friends, Rambo and Princess at his side. He was born on April 30, 1955, in Lewes, Del., to the late Sherman and Doris Hudson Evans.

He worked for the DuPont Company, for Food Lion for 12 years as a store manager, and currently was a heavy equipment operator for George and Lynch construction company.

Evans was the life of the party, a real jokester and full of fun and full of humor. He loved fishing, boating, camping and being with his family. He was an animal lover.

He is survived by his wife, Deborah Ann Evans; and two children, Nicholas Cody Evans and Robert Evans Jr., both of Seaford, Del.; three grandchildren, Tori, Ella and Athena; two brothers, Sherman Evans, and his wife, Terri, of Seaford; and Larry Evans, of Washington, D.C.; and many extended family members and friends.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, April 21, 2017 at 1 p.m. at Mariner’s Bethel United Methodist Church cemetery in Ocean View, Del. Pastor Kyle Hubbard will officiate.

Floral tributes are welcomed, as are memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements are by Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro, Del.

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

Edward “Sykes” Cropper, 87, of Bishopville, Md., passed away Friday, April 14, 2017, peacefully at home with his family by his side. He was born in Salisbury, Md., son of the late Edwin S. and Nellie (Selby) Cropper.

He retired from Worcester County Government as the fire marshal/director of Emergency Services. In 1966, Cropper became the first fulltime fire marshal for Worcester County, where he served for 30 years. He was a 60-year member of the Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department; a 61-year member of Sinepuxtent American Legion Post #166; past president of Worcester County Fireman’s Association; and member of Fire Marshals Association of North America. He was the chairman of the committee for building the Worcester County Fire Training Center. Cropper was a member of Wilson United Methodist Church and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Betty Bunting Cropper; one daughter, Sherry C. Harrington and her husband, K.C., of Bishopville; daughter-in-law, Ellen Cropper of Selbyville, Del.; two grandchildren, Dale Cropper and wife, Brittany, and Blakelyn Harrington and fiancé, Ethan Davis; step-granddaughter, Delilah; and several nieces.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Eddie D. Cropper; brother, Benjamin Cropper; and a sister, Fleda Campbell.

Special thanks to his caregivers Darlene and Vaun-Tae.

The funeral was scheduled for April 19, 2017, at Wilson United Methodist Church, Bishopville, Md., with the Rev. Paul Sherwood officiating and interment in Bishopville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bishopville Volunteer Fire Dept.; PO Box 350; Bishopville, MD 21813, or to Wilson U.M. Church; PO Box 375; Bishopville, MD 21813.

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

Richard A. Cobo, 83, of Millsboro, Del., passed away on April 9, 2017.

He served during the Korean War with the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. Cobo was a Baltimore City firefighter for 33 years. While there, he campaigned for muscular dystrophy with “Fill the Boot” donations. After retiring from the fire department he resided in Millsboro, Del.

He was beloved husband of Kathleen McGill Cobo; devoted father of Monica Corwin, Pamela Cobo, Melissa Wilson, Hollee Sifford, Stephen and Michael Cobo, and stepfather of Mary Ann and Anthony DeNicolis; loving grandfather of Niki Tuttle, Michael Pearce, Phil and Dave Wilson, Jessica Burrell, Keith Sifford, Jonathan, Josh, Carly, Lily, Emma and Aubree Cobo, Morgan and Brian McFaul and seven great-grandchildren; and brother of Jack Cobo and the late Thomas Cobo.

A visitation was scheduled for April 18, 2017, at McComas Funeral Home, Bel Air, Md., with a Mass of Christian burial on April 19 at St. Mary Magdalen Mission, Bel Air, Md. A committal service will follow at a later date at the Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens, 200 Padonia Road, Timonium, Md.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Baltimore City Widows and Orphans Fund; 1202 Ridgely Street; Baltimore, MD 21230.

Russell William “Rusty” Walter, 52, of Baltimore, Md., passed away suddenly on Friday, April 14, 2017, while vacationing in West Virginia. He was born March 12, 1965, in Baltimore city, Md., son of Ronald John Walter of Ocean View, Del., and Doris Ann Rohde Walter of Bel Air, Md.

Walter graduated from C. Milton Wright H. School and worked as service advisor at Norris Ford. He loved watching the Ravens and Orioles and loved having many special times with friends, whom he touched with his joy and laughter.

Walter was preceded in death by his grandparents, Thomas and Hilda Rohde, and Russel and Helen Walter, and his step-grandmother, Audrey Walter. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his mother, Doris Rohde Walter; father, Ronald J. Walter, and stepmother, Yvonne Murray Walter; his wife, Nancy Ann Reed DeLozier-Walter; father-in-law, William Reed; a daughter, Amanda Gibson, and a son, Corey Wilson; two brothers, Tom Walter and his wife, Jean, and Laurence Walter and his wife, Lisa; Amy Cook and her husband, Nathan, and Nancy Mazepa; and several aunts and uncles and nieces and nephews.

Condolences may be emailed to his father at RonJWalter@yahoo.com.

Carlton Casher Tindley, 83, also known as “Pipe” and “Skace,” was born June 11, 1933, in Selbyville, Del., to the late Alice Tindley Truitt and Casher Williams. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 18, 2017.

Tindley received his education at Selbyville #210C School. He was united in holy matrimony to Barbara Taylor on Dec. 21, 1957. They were married 59 years. They were blessed with three sons and four daughters.

Tindley retired from Bennett Security and Legislative Hall in the House of Representatives after many years of service. He served in the U.S. Army in Korea as a quartermaster from 1950 to 1953.

He was a member of Zoar United Methodist Church in Selbyville. Tindley loved the Bible, and he would debate with others about it. He also loved singing and writing his own songs, including “It’s Revival Time.” He loved making wreaths at Christmastime. He also had a love for cars and had so many that the family can only name a few: Cadillac, Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, Camaro and many more. He loved to dress from head to toe; he was a dressing man.

His daily routine was to go to the Food Lion in Selbyville and talk to people almost every day. When he would come home, he would sit outside or in his car and smoke a pipe. He loved his pipe, so that became his nickname. He acted as if he was the richest man in the world, because his ship was on the way in. When the mail truck came, he would go to the mailbox because his check was sure to be there.

In addition to his parents, Tindley was preceded in death by two brothers, Clinton and Vernon Tindley; a granddaughter, Monique Gibbs; and a great-granddaughter, Kayla Purnell. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Barbara Tindley; three sons, Barry of Dagsboro, Del., Darryl and his wife, Alvina, of North Carolina, and Bryan Tindley Sr. and his wife, Matilda, of Millsboro, Del.; four daughters, Carvella Jarmon and her husband, Maurice, Malissa Billinger and her spouse, Andre, Sherri Snead and her husband, James, of Millsboro, and Lorri Tindley of Dagsboro, 15 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; a brother, Frank Truitt and his wife, Madeline, of Wilmington, Del.; two sisters, Freida Truitt, and Lisa Truitt Timmons and her spouse, Andre, of Snow Hill, Md.; sisters-in-law, Norma Drummond of Florida and her spouse, Sammy, Brenda White of Virginia and her spouse, the Rev. Willie White, Marie Garris of New York, Asia Nock of Delmar, Md., and Margaret Jean Tindley of Salisbury, Md.; two brothers-in-law, Wayne Taylor of Virginia and his wife, Marsha, and Donald Sturgis of Selbyville; two special cousins, Etta Moore and Raymond Moore of Selbyville; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Family and friends may call for viewing and visitation on Saturday, April 29, 2017, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Calvary Pentecostal Church, N. Worcester Highway, Bishopville, Md. The celebration-of-life service will commence at 1 p.m. A private committal service with military honors will occur at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Millsboro, Del., at a later date.

Suzanne C. “Susie” Somers, 67, of Ocean View, Del., formerly of Silver Spring, Md., passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2017, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes, Del. She was born in Denver, Colo., on March 18, 1950, daughter of the late Kenneth Somers and Mary (Dowd) Somers. She served in the security industry prior to her retirement.

Affectionately known as “Sister Sue” by her family, she was dedicated to her family and served as the family historian. Somers was actively involved in presidential political campaigns during the 1960s and 1970s and was an encyclopedia of information on classic movies, music and trivia. She enjoyed playing bingo and dining at local area restaurants.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Mark J. Somers. She is survived by three siblings, Victoria I. Somers of Mays Landing, N.J., Christine V. Somers of Ocean View, and Stephen P. Somers and his wife, Shelly, of Ocean View; three nieces, Brittany Young and her husband, Matt, of York, Pa., and Autumn Breeze Somers and Sky Somers, both of Ocean View; a great-nephew, Rylan Young; and a great-niece, Wyndolyn Somers.

A prayer service will be held April 27, 2017, at Melson Funeral Services, Ocean View, Del. Entombment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Dagsboro, Del. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Thomas “Tom” Neary, 88, of Ocean View, Del., formerly of Linthicum, Md., passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2017, at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Del. He was born in Salisbury, Md., on Oct. 24, 1928, son of the late Thomas Francis Neary and Edna M. (Bailey) Neary.

Neary proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a degree in psychology. He retired as a section chief with Western Electric in Baltimore, Md., with more than 30 years of service.

Neary served as past president of the Lord Baltimore Lions Club, was a member of the Order of Eastern Star Frankford Chapter #12 and was a former Mason with Doric Lodge #30 in Millville, Del. He also volunteered with Meals on Wheels and at the ER at Beebe hospital in Lewes, Del. He was a private pilot and enjoyed flying up and down the East Coast. He also enjoyed oil painting, boating, fishing, skydiving, scuba diving, gardening and parasailing.

In addition to his parents, Neary was preceded in death by his first wife, Viola Neary, in 1995 and a brother, Philip Neary. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Betty Anne Neary; three children, Michael Neary and his wife, Lynn, of Frankford, Del., Deborah Price and her husband, Bob, of Pasadena, Md., and Quent Bruso and his wife, Theresa, of Paxton, Mass.; nine grandchildren, Ashley, Victoria, Matthew, Christopher, James, Angela, Alysia, Brandon and Haleigh; 11 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; a sister, Catherine Pence of Florida; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, April 30, 2017, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Millville United Methodist Church, 36405 Club House Road, Millville, Del., with services immediately following. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Lord Baltimore Lions Club; P.O. Box 525; Ocean View, DE 19970. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Anne Margaret McPaul, 64, of Ocean View, Del., passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Monday, April 17, 2017, at her home. She was born in Bedford, England, on Sept. 18, 1952, daughter of the late George Mortimer McPaul and Sarah Meikle (Russell) McPaul.

At the time of her death, McPaul was employed as a sales manager at Treasure Island Fashions in Ocean View, Del. She enjoyed cooking and baking and spending time with her grandchildren. She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend.

McPaul is survived by three children, Kyle M. Trolan of Beaufort, S.C., Brittany Rhoads and her husband, Zack, of Ocean View, and Nicholas Trolan, also of Ocean View; two grandchildren, Wyatt Rhoads and Kalyn Trolan; and a brother, Russell McPaul of Ocean City, N.J.

A celebration of her life will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 29, 2017, at Bethel United Methodist Church, 129 West Fourth Street, Lewes, Del. Interment was to be private. 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.

Patricia W. “Pat” Hummer, 89, of Seaford, Del., formerly of Frankford, Del., passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, April 18, 2017, at Methodist Manor House in Seaford. She was born in Flemington, Pa., on June 20, 1927, daughter of the late John David Walker and Goldie (Knarr) Walker.

Hummer graduated from the Beebe School of Nursing in Lewes, Del., in 1948. She worked as a registered nurse and operating-room supervisor and then for several years in several different doctors’ offices. In 1964, Hummer became the school nurse at Sussex Central Junior High School, and she retired from the Indian River School District in 1991 after 27 years of service.

Hummer enjoyed making crafts, creating beautiful ceramics, knitting and doing needlepoint. She was a member of the Hickory Hill United Methodist Church, where she played the piano for several years and was a past member of the Delaware Educational Association.

In addition to her parents, Hummer was preceded in death by her husband, James L. Hummer Jr., in 1991 and by 15 siblings. She is survived by two children, Kathleen A. Hummer of Lexington, Ky., and James L. “J.L.” Hummer III and his wife, Bonnie, of Dagsboro, Del.; a granddaughter, Kasey J. Hummer; and a brother, Billy Walker of Lock Haven, Pa.

A funeral service was to be held April 22, 2017, at Melson Funeral Services, with interment at Carey’s Cemetery, both in Frankford, Del. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to Vitas Hospice; 20773 Professional Park Blvd.; Georgetown, DE 19947. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Richard Gros, 67, passed away at his home on Dec. 24, 2016. Born in Passaic, N.J., on Sept. 29, 1949, he was the son of the late John Gros and Augusta Veenema.

Gros married Linda Frey on Feb. 26, 1972, and to their union three children were born: Richard Gros Jr., and Christopher and Daniel Gros.

Gros was a devoted father and husband. He was very friendly and made friends quickly. He was a good person and helped people when he could. He was a U.S. Army veteran, a member of the Upper Greenwood Lake Ambulance Squad, a member of Hawthorne Fire Company #3 and operations manager for Pequanock Disposal.

In addition to his parents, Gros was preceded in death by two brothers, Paul Torma and George Gros. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Linda Gros; three sons, Richard Gros Jr. and his wife, Patricia, of Ridgewood, N.J., Christopher Gros and his wife, Ellen, of Ellenville, N.Y., and Daniel Gros and his wife, Stephanie, of Vernon, N.J.; a sister, Georgia Cina and her husband, Sal, of Lodi, N.J.; and nine grandchildren, Vincent, Jacob, Jared, Haley, Ryan, Tyler, Johnathan, Matthew and Isabella.

A memorial service and interment will be held on April 22, 2017, at 11 a.m., at Northern New Jersey Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 75 North Church Road, Sparta, N.J. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Northern New Jersey Veterans Cemetery (email nnjvmc75@gmail.com) or Compassionate Care Hospice; 20165 Office Cir.; Georgetown, DE 19947. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Richard T. “Rick” Frisby Jr., 72, of Bethany Beach, Del., formerly of West Chester, Pa., passed away on Saturday, April 22, 2017, at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in West Chester, Pa., on Aug. 3, 1944, son of the late Richard T. Frisby Sr. and Gertrude Marie (McMenamin) Frisby.

He retired as the assistant postmaster at Lewes Post Office in 1993 after a total of 25 years in the industry. After his “retirement,” Frisby worked at the Lowe’s in Lewes, Del., and also for ResortQuest in Bethany Beach as a pool technician, retiring completely in 2012.

Frisby was a lifetime member of the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company, serving as a fire policeman. He was also an avid surf fisherman and also enjoyed making fishing poles and tackle.

Frisby is survived by his wife of 48 years, Josephine H. (Bradley) Frisby; a daughter, Lisa Bennett and her husband, Frank S. Bennett III, of Frankford, Del.; and two grandchildren, Aaron Bennett and Colby Bennett, both of Frankford.

A visitation will be held Friday, April 28, 2017, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Melson Funeral Services, 38040 Muddy Neck Road, Ocean View, Del., with memorial service at 11 a.m. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to Compassionate Care Hospice; 20165 Office Cir.; Georgetown, DE 19947, or to Bethany Beach Vol. Fire Co.; P.O. Box 950; 215 Hollywood Street, Bethany Beach, DE 19930. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfunerlaservices.com.

William J. Fitzgerald, 83, of Lewes, Del., passed away on April 19, 2017, at home.

He was an Army veteran and a lifelong member of the AMVETS, as well as a past commander. He loved fishing, golfing and enjoying time with his loving family and friends.

Fitzgerald was preceded in death by his grandson, Jason Strayline, and his brother, Thomas Fitzgerald. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Barbara (Shirley) Fitzgerald; his daughters, Linda Strayline and her husband, Chaz, Kim Fitzgerald and Sharon Brotzman and her husband, Robert; four grandchildren, Thomas, Jamie, Amy and Ashley; and two great-grandchildren Adrianna and Grace.

Services and interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Long Neck AMVETS Post 22; 32369 Long Neck Rd., Unit 18; Millsboro, DE 19966. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Dominick A. “Nick” Esposito, 82, passed away peacefully at home near Millsboro, Del., on April 18, 2017, after a brief illness. He was born in Wilmington, Del., to Louis Esposito and Vincentia (Scarmozzi) Esposito.

He served seven years in the U.S. Army and 20 years as a federal civil-service chief mechanic for the Delaware National Guard Army Reserve, retiring in 1996 as staff sergeant, E6. He was also a graduate of Delaware High School.

Esposito loved animals, particularly cats. He enjoyed tending to neighborhood strays, feeding and sheltering them and inviting his favorites inside to be part of his family.

He was also known for his kindheartedness to hungry animals on his post-retirement paper route, handing out food to those in need. It was also known that Esposito brought home two stray chickens from a daily paper run. But, sadly, they never made it into the family fold. Esposito was also an avid fisherman who enjoyed the open waters and surf-fishing.

Esposito is survived by his wife of 35 years, Bessie “Bonnie” M. Esposito; children, Linda Esposito Hurd, Tina Anderson and her spouse, Enoch Anderson, Denise Lingenfelter and her spouse, Franklin Lingenfelter, Kenneth Esposito and his spouse, Cecilia Esposito, and Stephanie Carpenter and her spouse, Chris Carpenter; stepsons, Kenneth Matthias and Brian Matthias; grandchildren Gayle Rutter, Christina Wooten, Jaime deBrabander, Nicholas Hurd, Evan Anderson, Sarah Witkowski, Franklin Lingenfelter III, Isabella Esposito, Nikki Castner and Rickey Carpenter; seven great-grandchildren; and siblings Louis Esposito Jr. and his spouse, Cheryl, Lucy Thomas, Jeanette Lindsey and Sharon Jacobs.

Services were scheduled for April 25, 2017, at Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro, Del. Interment with military honors was to follow at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Millsboro, Del. Memorial contributions may be made to the Delaware SPCA, Georgetown Chapter; 22918 DuPont Hwy.; Georgetown, DE 19947.

George Robert “Bob” Downer, 86, was born Jan. 7, 1931, in a blizzard in Buffalo, N.Y., and died April 5, 2017.

He attended elementary, junior and senior high schools in Washington, D.C., In the school system and in the church, he discovered the joy of singing. Downer was a tenor soloist at Walter Reed Hospital Chapel and First Baptist Church in downtown D.C. President Harry Truman attended that church and was present when Downer sang the tenor solos in Handel’s “Messiah.”

As a child, Downer spent many summers on a relative’s farm near Batavia, N.Y. As a teenager, he worked at a camp on Lake Dunmore, near Brandon, Vt. During the summer of 1949, Downer attended a three-week vocal camp at Westminster Choir College in Princeton, N.J. Unknowingly, Downer also then met his future wife, Mildred Craven Newman. They met again in September of 1950, when each enrolled as freshmen at Westminster.

After their freshman year, he and Mildred were both selected as members of the 40-voice touring Westminster Choir. In the following three years, they traveled on three extensive tours in 23 states. They also sang 25 concerts with the New York Philharmonic in Carnegie Hall, under the direction of Bruno Walter, Leonard Bernstein, Dimitri Metropolis and Guido Cantelli.

Downer graduated from Westminster in 1954 with a bachelor’s degree in music. He and Mildred were married Aug. 7, 1954. He earned his master’s degree in music in 1955.

Downer served as a minister of music at Second Presbyterian Church of Germantown in Philadelphia, Pa., from 1951 to 1954 and at Fanwood (N.J.) Presbyterian Church in Fanwood from 1954 to 1955. He also served in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1957, including one year in Frankfurt, Germany, where he was assigned to the chaplain’s headquarters. Mildred and their daughter, Terrie, joined him there.

Upon returning to the states, he was called as minister of music at First Baptist Church, Wilmington, N.C., from 1957 to 1959, then becoming 35-year minister of music and worship at First Baptist Church, Austin, Texas. In 1961, his wife was made assistant minister of music. Downer planned all of the worship services, and together they directed eight singing choirs and three handbell choirs. Hundreds of students sang in the graded choir program over the years, many of whom chose careers in music. The couple retired in August of 1994. Following his retirement, Downer orchestrated an addition and remodeling of his beloved family home in Bethany Beach, Del.

The Downers received 1987 “The Alumni Merit Award” from Westminster Choir College, Princeton, N.J., and were later named Ministers of Music Emeritus at First Baptist Church, Austin, Texas.

Downer was preceded in death by his father, George Emmon Downer; mother, Dorothy Gravatte Downer; sister, Patricia Downer Thomas; and son-in-law, Stephen Loy Combs. He is survived by his wife of 63 years,
Mildred Newman Downer of Virginia; daughter, Teresa Downer Combs of Virginia; son, Mark Elliott Downer and wife, Renee Joseph Downer, of Austin; his sister, Eloise Downer Pantermuehl of Wimberly, Texas, and her husband, Buddy Pantermuehl; five grandchildren who lovingly called him “Deedaddy,” Preston Gill of Michigan and his wife, Danielle Gill, Lauren Combs, Madison Combs and fiancée Kayla See, all of Virginia, and Ryan and Brandon Downer of Texas; two great-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren of Michigan; several nieces and nephews; and a close family friend who became like another daughter, Louise Kemp Avant.

A visitation was scheduled for April 27, 2017, at Cook Walden Funeral Home, Austin, Texas. A private burial will take place April 28, 2017. A memorial service and musical celebration of life will be held April 28, 2017, at First Baptist Church in Austin, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Music Ministry of First Baptist Church; 901 Trinity St.; Austin, TX 78701.

Joseph Thomas Carmody, 37, of Bethany Beach, Del., formerly of Chevy Chase, Md., passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2017, at home. He was born in Virginia on Jan. 28, 1980, son of the late Kevin William Carmody and Barbara Jane (McCloskey) Carmody.

Carmody was a firefighter/EMT serving at various fire companies in Sussex County and most recently with the Millville Volunteer Fire Company. He volunteered with the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company, was a Mason with Doric Lodge #30 in Millville and was a personal trainer in Ocean View, Del., He was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing, hunting, kayaking and walking the beach with his dog, Magnum.

He is survived by his wife of five years, Amanda Pearson-Carmody; his 8-month-old daughter, Fallyn Carmody; a sister, Jane McCloskey Carmody of Gaithersburg, Md.; and multiple loving family members and friends.

A visitation will be held Friday, April 28, 2017, from 6 to 8 p.m. and again at noon on Saturday, April 29, at Melson Funeral Services, 38040 Muddy Neck Road, Ocean View, Del., A Masonic service will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2017, at 1 p.m., followed by a prayer service with full fireman’s honors at the funeral home. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Co.; P.O. Box 950; Bethany Beach, DE 19930. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Carl Edward Williams, 79, of Bethany Beach, Del., passed away on Monday, April 24, 2017, at Harrison Senior Living. He was born in Scranton, Pa., on Thursday, July 29, 1937, son of the late Hayden Williams and Margaret (Weibel) Williams.

Williams was a proud U.S. Army veteran, having served in Panama from 1956 until 1958. He worked in the printing industry for his entire career, most recently as a sales manager/project specialist for Dennison Manufacturing.

He was an avid duplicate bridge player. His favorite partner was his wife of 38 years, Trina. Together, they traveled to bridge tournaments up and down the East Coast, and spent several weeks each winter in Florida. He was a member of the American Contract Bridge League and achieved the rank of Ruby Life Master.

More than anything, Williams cherished time spent with family, especially his children and grandchildren. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend, and he will be deeply missed by everyone who was blessed to know him.

In addition to his parents, Williams was preceded in death by his brothers, John Williams and Robert Williams. He is survived by his beloved wife, Trina (Leed) Williams; his sons, Michael and his spouse, Leslie, of New Market, Md., Douglas of York, Pa., Darryl and his wife, Amy, of Richmond, Va., and Russell and his wife, Kelli, of West Linn, Ore.; his daughters, Denise Barton and her husband, Brian, of Red Lion, Pa., Krista Cooper and her husband, Robert, of Broussard, La., and Liz Turner and her husband, Scott, of Dover, Del.; and by 14 grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 11, 2017, at 2 p.m., at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Clarksville Chapel, 34874 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean View, Del., where friends may visit beginning at 1 p.m. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to Johns Hopkins, Department of Neurology Fund for Brain Cancer Research; 550 North Broadway, Suite 731; Baltimore, MD 21205. Condolences may be sent online at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.