Obituaries

Sarah L. Liccardi, 74, of Milton, Del., passed away Friday, March 15, 2013, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes, Del. She was born Feb. 19, 1939, in Mahoning, Pa., daughter of the late Earl and Genevieve (Britt) Fetterman.

Liccardi resided with her husband of 33 years, Carmine, in Middlesex, N.J. After working with Acme Markets for 25 years, she retired to the beach in 2005. She was an active member of Henlopen Senior Center and St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church in Lewes. She regularly attended Mass every Saturday at 4 p.m.

Liccardi loved exploring and traveling to different places, especially to Aruba. She was an avid beachgoer who also enjoyed working with ceramics, crafting and having fun with family and friends. Liccardi was remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt whose love will be missed by so many.

Liccardi was preceded in death by her son, Duane Volanski, in 1975. In addition to her husband, Liccardi is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Volanoski of Roosevelt, N.J.; her brother, Terrance Fetterman and his wife, Elaine, of Bangor, Pa.; her granddaughter, Patricia Carman of Altoona, Pa.; two great-grandchildren, Samantha and Kenneth Westover of Altoona, Pa.; a nephew, Jeff Fetterman and his wife, Janilyn, of Selbyville, Del.; two nieces and their husbands, Lisa and Dan Kirschner of Stroudsburg, Pa., and Adine and John Cumberland of Fallston, Md.; and her beloved pet Morkie, Lacie Lou.

A Mass of Christian Burial was scheduled for March 20, 2013, at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, with arrangements by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, both in Lewes, Del. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association; 200 Continental Dr., Suite 101; Newark, DE 19713, or to the American Lung Association; 1021 Gilpin Ave., Suite 202; Wilmington, DE 19806. Condolences may be sent online at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.

John Ronald “Jack” Lopez, 71, of Lewes, Del., formerly of New Freedom, Pa., passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2013, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes.

Lopez was born June 18, 1941, in Baltimore, Md., son of the late Alvin and Ellie (Young) Lopez. He was a veteran, having served in the United States Air Force. He worked as a technician with the Xerox Corporation in Baltimore, with more than 20 years of service, retiring in 1994. Lopez was also a member of American Legion Post 28 in Millsboro, Del.

Lopez is survived by his two sons, Tim Lopez and his wife, Kelly, of York, Pa., and David Lopez and his wife, Trish, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; his companion of 20 years, Etta Thornton of Lewes; two grandsons, Evan and Nicholas Lopez of York, Pa.; three brothers, Ross, Jimmy and Alan Lopez; and four sisters, Lynn Surratt, Betty Trommer, Jean Giprich and Margaret Lopez.

A funeral service was scheduled for March 21, 2013, at Melson Funeral Services, with interment with military honors at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, both in Millsboro, Del. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Arlene E. Marvel, 78, of Dagsboro, Del., formerly of Lebanon, Pa., passed away on Sunday, March 17, 2013, with her loving family by her side.

She was born Aug. 7, 1934, in Lebanon, daughter of the late Paul and Elizabeth (Books) Snyder. Marvel retired from the Stockley Center as a certified resident aide after 14 years of service. She then worked part-time as a home health aide until her retirement three years ago. She was a former member of the Lebanon Bible Fellowship Church and was currently attending the Peninsula Community Church in Selbyville, Del.

Marvel was a lifetime certified Delaware Master Gardener, a member of the Survivors & Friends Relay For Life Team for nine years and had performed as Minnie the Clown. Marvel was an avid gardener and well known for her canning abilities, but her true passion was the love she bestowed upon her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Marvel was also preceded in death by two brothers, Paul and Kenneth Snyder. She is survived by her loving husband of 13 years, Raymond E. “Gene” Marvel; four children, Deborah E. Elliott and her husband, Barry, of Lebanon, Pa., Donna M. Schaeffer and her husband, Donald, of Pine Grove, Pa., David R. Smith and his wife, Yarina, of Mounds View, Minn., and Sheila A. and her husband, N. Philip, of Emmaus, Pa.; two stepchildren, Kevin E. Marvel of Elkton, Md., and Denise A. Hudson and her husband, Dean, of Harbeson, Del.; a sister, Brenda L. Sumner and her husband, Edward, of Sedalia, Colo.; 14 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 22, 2013, at Peninsula Community Church, 28574 Cypress Road, Selbyville, Del., where friends and family may call after 9 a.m. Interment was to follow at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro, Del.

Flowers are welcomed, or memorial donations may be sent to the American Cancer Society Survivors & Friends Team for Relay for Life c/o Donna Schaeffer; 1162 Suedberg Rd.; Pine Grove, PA 17963, or Peninsula Community Church; 28574 Cypress Rd.; Selbyville, DE 19975, or to Delaware Hospice; 100 Patriots Way; Milford, DE 19963. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Isabel S. Shearman, 80, of Lewes, Del., passed away peacefully on Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes, surrounded by her loving family. She was born Nov. 30, 1932, in Irvington, N.Y., daughter of the late W. Edward Sweetman and Gertrude Duff Sweetman.

Shearman grew up in Irvington-on-Hudson, where she graduated from Irvington High School. She continued to the College of St. Elizabeth in Morristown, N.J., graduating in 1954, and then to the Bronx VA ADA Internship program. She was a parishioner of St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church.

In addition to her parents, Shearman was preceded in death by her three brothers, William, Richard and John Sweetman. She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Henry S. Shearman; her four children, Henry S. Shearman Jr. of Allentown, Pa., Margaret Shearman of White Plains, N.Y., Celia Shearman of Lewes, and David Shearman and his wife, Kari Shearman, of Frankford, Del.; four grandchildren, Skyler, Riley, Benjamin and Reese, all of Frankford; and one brother, David Sweetman of West Boylston, Mass.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Feb. 20, 2013, at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church in Lewes, Del., with internment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Dagsboro, Del. Arrangements were by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium in Lewes.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made Casa San Francisco; P.O. Box 38; 127 Broad St.; Milton, DE 19968. Condolences may be sent online at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.

Dorothy M. Stanton, 79, of Selbyville, Del., and formerly of Upper Marlboro, Md., passed away at home Wednesday, March 13, 2013. Born in Wilmington, she was the daughter of the late Richard T. and Margaret E. (Chaney) Lee.

Stanton was a homemaker and a member of the Ocean City, Md., Elks Club.

She is survived by a son, Daniel Sillers of Georgetown, Del.; two daughters, Margaret Jacobsen of Ruckersville, Va., and Tracy Hane of Selbyville; two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and her best friend, Danny Stephens of Selbyville. Stanton was preceded in death by her husband, George W. Stanton, in 2006 and two brothers, George Lee and Thomas “Jr.” Lee.

A chapel service was scheduled for March 15, 2013, at Delaware Veterans Cemetery in Millsboro, Del., with the Rev. Elizabeth Keaton officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, Delaware Valley Chapter; 399 Market St., Suite 102; Philadelphia, PA 19106. Condolences may be sent online at www.hastingsfuneralhome.net.

Ronald David Wheeler Jr., 53, of Luverne, Minn., formerly of Ocean View, Del., passed away Thursday, March 7, 2013, at his home in Minnesota.

Wheeler was born Aug. 17, 1959, in Baltimore, Md., son of Ronald David Wheeler Sr., and Judith (Baker) Wheeler. He worked for Young Love Construction LLC for six years, building silos throughout the Midwest. He enjoyed traveling throughout the Midwest, listening to an extensive variety of music and long walks through the Blue Mound National Park.

Wheeler was preceded in death by his father, Ronald David Wheeler Sr., on July 14, 2012. He is survived by his mother, Judith V. Wheeler of Frankford, Del.; his loving companion of 16 years, Stacy Tripi of Buffalo, N.Y.; two daughters, Rhiannon Wheeler of Beaufort, S.C., and Sarah Daise, and her husband, Kiery, of Savannah, Ga.; two sisters and their husbands, Lisa and Theodore Parmly of Seaford, Del., and Christine and Mark Warrington of Roxana, Del.; three grandchildren, Alayjah, Shayla and Keirah Daise of Savannah, Ga.; a niece, Kelly Warrington of Roxana; and a nephew, Jordan Parmly of Seaford.

A memorial service was scheduled for March 19, 2013, at Melson Funeral Services, Ocean View, Del., with private interment. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Neil P. Stong, 74, a 40-year resident of West Chester, Pa., passed away Sunday, March 10, 2013, at Neighborhood Hospice in West Chester, with his beagle Cupcake by his side.

Stong was born in Philadelphia, Pa., son of the late Joseph H. and Sarah (Bettcher) Stong. He attended Wetherill School, Smedley Jr. High School and PMC Prep School and graduated from PMC College, now Widener University, with a degree in mechanical engineering.

Stong worked for the Navy for 10 years, designing catapults for aircraft carriers, before joining the family business fulltime in 1970. Stong brought his expertise in fire protection systems and, with his two brothers, expanded Joseph Stong Inc., based in Chester, Pa., to become a major mechanical contracting and fire-protection business in the tri-state area. Stong became president of Joseph Stong Inc. in 1994 and remained in that position until his death.

Stong was a member of Associated Builders and Contractors for more than 30 years, serving as president of the Southeastern Pennsylvania chapter. He obtained a NICET Level IV certification from the National Society of Professional Engineers. He was also a member of the American Fire Sprinkler Association, the National Fire Sprinkler Association and the National Federation of Independent Businesses. Stong was a tireless and vocal advocate for small business, often lobbying in Harrisburg and Washington, D.C., for free enterprise and right-to-work legislation. As an employer, Stong was passionate about workplace safety and was innovative in creating programs, policies and procedures to keep employees and customers safe on the job.

Stong served 22 years of active reserve duty with the Army, retiring as a major. Stong was known as a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was passionate about golf, being a member of Hershey’s Mill Golf Club in West Chester and Bear Trap Dunes in Ocean View, Del. He loved his home at Sea Colony and everything about Bethany Beach, Del., and Ocean View. It was where he always wanted to be.

Stong was preceded in death by his brother Joseph W. Stong, and his wife, Shirley. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Florence A. (Campbell) Stong; children Susan S. Callahan of Berwyn, Pa. and her husband, Matt, Karen M. Murray of Ocean View and her husband, Craig, Neil P. Stong Jr. of Millsboro, Del., and his wife, Tammy, and Steven J. Stong of Bear, Del., and his wife, Monica; a brother, Eric C. Stong of Worton, Md., and his wife, Connie; a sister, Louise S. Gliem of Media, Pa., and her husband, Dennis; and grandchildren Mattock and Harrison Callahan, Zachary and Ben Fabryka, and Taylor, Max and Kaitlin Stong.

A funeral service was scheduled for March 14, 2013, at Carr Funeral Home in Wallingford, Pa., with interment to be private. Memorial contributions may be sent to Advent Lutheran Church; 1601 Green Ln.; West Chester, PA 19382, or to Stonybank Community Church; 35 Stoneybank Rd.; Glen Mills, PA 19342. Condolences may be sent online at www.carrfuneralhome.net.

Verdie B. West, 96, of Frankford, Del., passed away Saturday, March 2, 2013, at the Atlantic Shores Nursing Home in Millsboro, Del.

West was born Feb. 27, 1917, in Dagsboro, Del., daughter of the late Raymond Banks Sr. and Emma (Tyre) Banks. Verdie graduated from Lord Baltimore High School in 1935, received her associates degree from Peirce Junior Business College and attended the University of Delaware. She retired from Sussex Vocational Technical School as an administrative secretary in 1982 and was previously a bookkeeper for Townsends Inc., and a bookkeeper and teller for the Baltimore Trust Company. West was a member of St. George’s United Methodist Church, served as past secretary of the Republican Executive Committee and was past president of the Sussex County Board of Elections. Verdie enjoyed antiques and oil painting.

In addition to her parents, West was also preceded in death by her husband, William C. West, in 1955; a son, William C. West Jr., in 1998; two brothers, Ezekiel E. Banks in 1974 and Raymond L. Banks Jr. in 2005; two sisters, Pearl Robinson in 2007 and Linda Showell in 2010; and her close companion for many years, Ralson Pettyjohn. She is survived by her daughter, Emily Hocker and her husband, Gerald; five grandchildren and their spouses, Shelley Pszczola and Alex, Gerald Hocker Jr. and Carey, Melissa Willey and Bobby, Beth Ann Cahall and Rick, and Gregory Hocker and Mary Ellen; nine great-grandchildren, Alex IV, Alexis, Aiden, Maryn, Mitchell, Bailey, Colby, Mason and Greydon; and a sister, Margaret West. She is also survived by her husband’s sisters, Grace Jackson and Allena Wilson, whom she helped raise, and sisters-in-law Veronica Banks, Mary Banks and Doris West.

A funeral service was scheduled for March 8, 2013, at St. George’s United Methodist Church in Clarksville, Del., with interment in the adjoining cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to St. George’s United Methodist Church; 34281 Omar Rd.; Frankford, DE 19945. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Chandler Reid Watkins Jr., 88, of Rehoboth Beach, Del., passed away Friday, Feb. 22, 2013, at Harbor Health Care in Lewes, Del. He was born Jan. 17, 1925, in Oxford, N.C., to the late Chandler R. and Louise (Creecy) Watkins.

Watkins attended Oxford High School and Fishburne Military Prep School until he enlisted in the Air Force at the age of 18. After military training, he attended North Dakota State College before shipping off to England to serve in World War II. After returning home to Oxford, Watkins partnered with his father and uncles in owning and operating tobacco warehouses. He retired in the 1970s and relocated to Rehoboth Beach, where he participated in the restoration of many local homes. Watkins discovered a new passion and started C.R. Watkins Construction, working primarily in Lewes, Del., and Rehoboth Beach. When he was not working, he always looked forward to spending time with his family, on the beach and traveling, especially to Florida and Bermuda.

In addition to his parents, Watkins was preceded in death by a son, Reid Watkins. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Margaret A. Watkins; three children, Jimmy Watkins and his wife, Harriett, Marsha Ellington and Jane Dickerson and her husband, Scott, all of Oxford, N.C.; four stepdaughters and their spouses, Peggy Millman and George Yaksic of Rehoboth Beach, Beth Thomas of Lewes, Stephanie David and Geoff of Lewes, and Kathy McGuiness and Steve of Rehoboth Beach; 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his beloved beagle, Benjamin.

A memorial service was to be held at a later date. Arrangements were being handled by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium in Lewes, Del. Condolences may be sent online at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Delaware Hospice; 100 Patriots Way; Milford, DE 19963, or to Rehoboth Beach Main Street Inc.; P.O. Box 50; Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971.

Herman J. “Bunk” Truitt, 82, of Whaleyville, Md., passed away Saturday, March 2, 2013, at home, surrounded by his loving family, after a valiant struggle with colon cancer.

Truitt was born Oct. 11, 1930, in Baltimore, Md., son of the late Jennie (Dale) and Herman James Truitt. He was known as making indelible mark on the community, having served as teacher, tutor and coach for more than 40 years, during which time he positively influenced hundreds of students. He taught math and English; coached football, baseball and softball at Indian River, Selbyville and Stephen Decatur high schools; and taught night school at Delaware Technical & Community College. Truitt also coached Little League and Pony League in Berlin and Showell, Md., in the 1970s and 1980s. Countless residents of Sussex and Worcester, Md., counties owe a measure of their success and many happy school-day memories to his tutelage and support. He will be sorely missed.

Truitt proudly served his country during two tours of duty in the U.S. Army in Japan and Korea. He served as private first class from 1947 to 1949, during which time he earned the Army of Occupation medal. He re-enlisted in 1951 and served through 1953 as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army Airborne division. During his second tour, he was promoted to sergeant, made 26 service jumps — most into occupied territory — and was awarded his Parachutist Badge (“Jump Wings”), the National Defense Service Medal and a Good Conduct Medal.

After his military service, Truitt enolled in the Salisbury State Teachers College, graduating in 1957 with an English degree. In addition to serving his country and his community, Truitt regularly attended estate sales and was an avid collector of clocks and Ocean City, Md., memorabilia. He was also a lifelong fan of the Baltimore Orioles and hardly ever missed a game.

In addition to his parents, Truitt was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Truitt. Truitt is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Shirley Ann (Bowdle) Truitt; two daughters, Jennie Knapp, and her husband, William, of Ocean Pines, Md., and Janie Truitt, and her husband, Steven Weiler, of Wilmington, Del.; grandchildren Whitney McNamara and her husband, James, and Katelyn Knapp and Thomas Weiler.

A celebration of Truitt’s life will be held Saturday, March 23, 2013, at 1 p.m. in the auditorium at Indian River High School, 29772 Armory Road in Dagsboro, Del., with a reception following in the school cafeteria. Those mourning him are being invited to join his family and friends in sharing stories and memories of his life. In lieu of flowers, the family requested memorial donations to Whaleyville United Methodist Church; P.O. Box 6; Whaleyville, MD 21872, or to Coastal Hospice; P.O. Box 1733; Salisbury, MD 21802. Condolences may be sent online at www.hastingsfuneralhome.net.

Thomasina Cataudella, 81, of Lewes, Del., passed away peacefully on Sunday, Feb. 24, 2013, at her residence. She was born in Passaic, N.J., on July 28, 1931.

A celebration of Cataudella’s life was to be held on Thursday, March 7, 2013, at 6 p.m. at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium in Lewes, where friends could visit beginning at 5 p.m. Interment was to be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care; 220 Continental Dr., Ste. 101; Newark, DE 19713. Condolences may be sent online at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.

Sandra Dee Davis, 50, of Statesville, N.C., passed away Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013, at her home after an extended illness.

Davis was born April 18, 1962, in Seaford, Del., to James E. and Shirley Elliott Powell, who survive her. Davis was an avid reader and enjoyed writing. She was a loving mother and daughter and will be missed by her family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Davis is survived by her daughter, Shannon Davis of Statesville, N.C.; son, Steven Davis of Davenport, Fla.; two grandchildren, Alexis and Shia Davis; a brother, Vernon Powell and his wife, Maureen; sisters Paula Wells of Frankford, Del., and Betty Jo Bailey of Millsboro, Del.; nieces Angela Nicole Witschi and her husband, David, Macie Powell, Tiffany Wells and Madison Powell; nephews Eben and Vinnie McCabe and Richard Wells Jr.; a great-niece, Lanie Powell, and great-nephew, Khyle Wells.

A funeral service was scheduled for March 2, 2013, at Watson Funeral Home in Millsboro, Del. officiated by the Rev. Chuck Reynolds. Interment was to be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County; 2347 Simonton Rd.; Statesville, NC 28625, or to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network; 1500 Rosecrans Ave., Suite 200; Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Pauline M. Dukes, 90, of Millsboro, Del., passed away on Monday, Feb. 25, 2013. Dukes was born April 9, 1922, in Willards, Md., to the late Larry and Stella Hill Cooper. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Arvil Dukes, in 1988.

Dukes worked in the poultry business, vaccinating chickens for Allen’s and Cargill. She was a member of Hickory Hill United Methodist Church and the LIFT group. She enjoyed going to the Atlantic Shores Nursing Home with the LIFT ladies and helping the residents play bingo.

Dukes is survived by a son, Wayne Dukes, and his wife, Linda, and a granddaughter, Kelley Dukes, all of Dagsboro, Del.; sisters-in-law Catherine “Teen” Justice of Dagsboro and Pauline “Peg” Clogg of Gumboro, Del.; a half-sister, Pat Hudson of Nelsonia, Va.; and a half-brother, Buddy Cooper of Mayport, Fla.
A funeral service was scheduled for March 2, 2013, at Watson Funeral Home in Millsboro, Del., with interment at Millsboro Cemetery. The Rev. Thomas Starnes was to officiate. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial donations to Hickory Hill United Methodist Church, C/O Roy Rogers; 28209 Walt Carmean Ln.; Millsboro, DE 19966. Condolences may be sent online atwww.watsonfh.com.

of flowers, donations in Duke Feist’s name can be made to Paws for Life; 284 Great House Farm Ln.; Chesapeake City, MD 21915. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Anna Marie Fisher, 75, of Rehoboth Beach, Del., passed away peacefully Monday, Feb. 25, 2013, surrounded by her loving family and friends. She was born Nov. 9, 1937, in Philadelphia, Pa., daughter of the late Charles Hoffner and Marie (Short) Prell.

Fisher spent her early years in Williamstown, N.J. She was a 1955 graduate of Glassboro High School and furthered her education at Temple University in Philadelphia. She raised her children in Clayton, N.J., and retired to Rehoboth Beach after a long career with Wawa Food Markets. Fisher enjoyed world travel and cruises, having visited the Caribbean, Europe and much of the U.S. However, she was happiest when surrounded by her grandchildren, enjoying the beach and an occasional manicure and pedicure.

Fisher was also preceded in death by her husbands, Richard Meaney, in 1998, and Eugene Fisher, in 2003; her son, Alfred Meaney, in 2012; and her granddaughter, Amanda Stubbs, in 2004. She is survived by her life partner, William Brown; six children and their spouses, Richard Meaney II of Egg Harbor Township, N.J., Janet Gambino and her husband, Joseph, of Clayton, N.J., David Meaney of Egg Harbor Township, N.J., Beatrice Preston and her husband, Jay, of Hamilton, N.J., Marie Fisher of San Francisco, Calif., and Dawn Stubbs and her husband, John, of Rehoboth Beach; 11 grandchildren,

Kathleen Meaney, Tomara Blackburn and her fiancé, Ryan Evans, Craig Blackburn, Jessica Preston, Louise Gambino, Adam Preston, Richard Meaney III, Johnny Stubbs, Jay Preston Jr. and Abigail Stubbs; two great-grandchildren, Jeanne Meaney and Ryan Evans Jr.; five siblings and their spouses, Edward Hoffner, Richard Hoffner and his wife, Peggy, Barbara Beacroft and her husband, Skinner, William Prell and Mary Macklin and her husband, Mark; and her two loving cats, Mr. Boots and Lollipop.
A celebration of Fisher’s life was scheduled for March 2, 2013, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Lewes, Del., with private interment. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the giver’s choice. Condolences may be sent online at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.

Charles L. Hamblin, 91, of Selbyville, Del., passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2013. He was born May 26, 1921, in Selbyville to the late Lee and Cora Cahall Hamblin. He was also preceded in death by his sisters Elizabeth and Hannah, and a son-in-law, Gerald L. Megee.

Hamblin was a postal clerk in the Selbyville Post Office for many years before retiring. He was a U.S. Army veteran, having served during World War II. He was a charter member of the Selbyville Assembly of God Church in Selbyville. Hamblin enjoyed gardening and fishing. He was remembered as a loving husband, wonderful father and grandfather who was devoted to his family.

Hambln is survived by his wife of 67 years, Emma Lu Foster Hamblin of Selbyville; a daughter, Celeste Merritt, and her husband, Larry; grandchildren Ryan Megee and his wife, Kelley, and Mendi Smith and her husband, Erik; and great-grandchildren Sommer and Foster Smith, all of Bishopville, Md.

A funeral service was scheduled for March 4, 2013, at the Watson Funeral Home in Millsboro, Del., officiated by the Rev. Dave Douglas and Celeste Merritt. Burial was to follow at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery. 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.

Sarah Joyce Hazzard, 20, Millsboro, Del., passed away suddenly on Friday, March 1, 2013, at her residence. She was born Aug. 16, 1992, daughter of Debra L. Hazzard and the late Stephen D. Hazzard, who preceded her in death in 2002.

Hazzard attended Sussex Central High School and was an avid animal lover. She worked at the SPCA and volunteered countless hours at different animal organizations. Hazzard loved riding horses, participating in horse shows and giving horseback riding lessons. She took pride in every ribbon she won and always enjoyed working with children during summer riding camps.

Hazzard was very creative and would spend hours drawing and making photo art on the computer. She most recently became interested in history and family genealogy, discovering she was a descendent of the Daughters of the Revolution. Hazzard was known as a light-hearted and outgoing person who made immediate friends with everyone she met. She was a loving mother, daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin and friend who will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

In addition to her father, Hazzard was preceded in death by her grandparents, Richard and Anna Greer, and her aunt, Sarah J. Greer. She is survived by her son, Raylyn Knowles, and his father, Robert Knowles of Millsboro; her grandparents, Gene and Rose Hazzard of Harbeson, Del.; her brother, Wilson D. Hazzard of Harbeson, and his companion, Ashlyn Steele; her sister, Katherine A. Hazzard of Harbeson; her uncle, Richard Greer of Georgetown, Del., and his wife, Diane; her cousin, Hunter Greer of Harbeson; and her beloved Pomeranian, Missy.'

Funeral services were scheduled for March 6, 2013, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium in Lewes, Del., with interment at Henlopen Memorial Park in Milton, Del. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be accepted at The Raylyn Knowles Trust, c/o PNC Bank; 104 Main St.; Millsboro, DE 19966. Condolences may be sent online at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.

Etta Mae (Long) Hickman, 95, passed away Saturday, March 2, 2013. She was born July 2, 1917, in Milton, Del., daughter of the late Lulu and Oliver Long. She devoted her life to her family, friends and others.

Hickman’s family remembered her as the best mother and grandmother in the world. She enjoyed reading, gardening, cooking and her African violets. She spent many happy hours with her family and grandchildren, playing cards.

Hickman was preceded in death by her husband, John A. Hickman; a grandson, James F. Hudson Jr.; her brother, Alton Long; and three sisters, Dorothy, Mamie and Hilda. She will be dearly missed by her son and daughter-in-law, James and Tressia Hickman; her daughter and son-in-law, Olivia and Jim Hudson; her grandchildren, Denise and Michael Budd, Debbie and Bill Robertson, Cheryl and Rodney Reynolds, Cynthia and Peter McMahon, and J.J. and Karyn Hudson; her great-grandchildren, Jared and Mary Budd, Maggie, Job and Jonah Robertson, Macy Reynolds, Riley, Brody and Erichson McMahon, Emma, Sarah and Connor Hudson, and Corey Galbreath, who was like a granddaughter to her; and two sisters, Dulcie Scott of Pennsville, N.J., and Olive DeFino of Berea, Ohio.

The family thanked Vitas Hospice for their kindness and compassion during this difficult time.
A funeral service was scheduled for March 5, 2013, at Melson Funeral Services in Millsboro, Del., with interment in Odd Fellows Cemetery in Milton, Del. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to Moose Charities; 155 S. International Dr.; Mooseheart, IL 60539-1100. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Henry D. Mears, 63, of Berlin, Md., passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013. He was born in Lewes, Del., son of Norma J. Truitt of Whaleyville, Md., and the late Preston R. Mears.

Mears had been a truck driver for many years and was a member of Whaleyville United Methodist Church. Mears had a love for fishing and his grandchildren.

Mears is survived by his wife, Nancy J. Mears of Berlin; a son, Michael S. Mears and his wife, Michele, of Georgetown. Del.; a daughter, Sandy D. Sutty and her husband, Eric, of Hockessin, Del.; a brother, Bryan J. Truitt, and wife, Samantha, of Whaleyville; a sister, Lisa Phillips and her husband, Eddie, also of Whaleyville; and four grandchildren, Morgan and Miranda Mears, and Matthew and Nathan Sutty.

A funeral service was scheduled for March 1, 2013, at Hastings Funeral Home in Selbyville, Del., with the Rev. John Oltman officiating. Interment was to follow at New Hope Cemetery in Willards, Md. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Whaleyville United Methodist Church c/o Elaine Rogers; 12332 Blueberry Rd.; Whaleyville, MD 21872. Condolences may be sent online at www.hastingsfuneralhome.net.

Stacey Lynn Schaub Close, 39, of Laurel, Del., and formerly of Illinois, passed away Monday, March 4, 2013, at Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury, Md., after a sudden illness.

Close was born Oct. 24, 1973, in Lincoln, Ill. She moved to Delaware in 1997. She was a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Decatur, Ill., and Immaculata University. She was a case manager for Fellowship Health Resources. She loved camping, decorating and crayon coloring. She was a fan of novelist James Patterson. She was remembered as a good and very loving person who had a great and sometimes strong personality, and who would do all she could to help others.

Close was preceded in death by her stepmother, Glenna Schaub, and a brother, Daniel. She is survived by her mother, Richelle Barger, and her husband, Michael, of Laurel, Del.; and her father, Paul Schaub Jr., of Lincoln, Del. She is also survived by her beloved daughter, Christina Lynn Bethards; six siblings, Sara, Richard, Michael, Brian, Dustin and Jamie; special friends Elmer Bethards, Glenn Hudson and Dawn Ruhl; many extended family members and friends; her kitty friends Frick and Frack; and her doggie friends Dusty, Zeus and Pugsley.

A memorial service and celebration of Close’s life were scheduled for March 7, 2013, at Watson Funeral Home in Millsboro, Del., moderated by Marcie Altman. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions for breast cancer research through the Susan G. Komen for the Cure; ATTN: Donor Services; P.O. Box 650309; Dallas, TX 75265-0309. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Edith M. Snell, 89, of Lewes, Del., formerly Montgomery County, Md., passed away peacefully Friday, March 1, 2013, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes, Del. She was born May 1, 1923, in Staten Island, N.Y., daughter of the late William and Edith (Flanagan) Klee.

Snell lived a long life dedicated to her family. As a loving mother of six, she enjoyed cooking, cleaning and caring for all of her family, but it did not end there. In her free time, she worked countless hours volunteering at soup kitchens and taking care of the elderly.

Snell was an active parishioner of St. Edmond Catholic Church in Rehoboth Beach, Del. She enjoyed working on her beautiful garden, playing bridge and traveling to explore and experience new things. Snell was known as the family matriarch, and to the very end, she made her strong faith, love for family and love for life known to all.

In addition to her parents, Snell was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Ambrose Snell, in 1994; her brother, William Klee; and sister, Eleanor Skinner. She is survived by her four sons and their wives, Henry Snell and his wife, Kelly, of Pittsburgh, Pa., Michael Snell and his wife, Patricia, of Ocean Pines, Md., James Snell and his wife, Alice, of Raleigh, N.C., and Keith Snell and his wife, Diana, of Mount Airy, Md.; two daughters, Beth Rogan and her husband, Robert, of Newtonville, Mass., and Rosemary Snell of Wilmington, Del.; 12 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was scheduled for March 6, 2013, at St. Edmond Catholic Church in Rehoboth Beach, Del., with visitation March 5, 2013, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium in Lewes, Del. Interment was to be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mary Campbell Center; 4641 Weldin Rd.; Wilmington, DE 19803. Condolences may be sent online at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.