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KITCHEN, KAREN YVONNEDOVER-Karen Yvonne Kitchen, age 74, of Dover, DE, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, afte...
11/18/2025

KITCHEN, KAREN YVONNE
DOVER-Karen Yvonne Kitchen, age 74, of Dover, DE, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Surrounded by her loved ones, she left this world with the same grace, strength, and love that defined her life.

Born on July 13,1951 in Milford, DE, Karen devoted her life to her family and friends. She was known for her outgoing personality, beautiful smile and her love for golf.

Karen grew up in Houston, DE and graduated from Milford High School in 1969. She worked for Playtex right out of high school for 48 years before retiring in 2017.

A devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, she poured her heart into the people she loved including her Wild Quail family.

Karen approached every challenge— including her illness— with remarkable resilience and faith. Her courage was an inspiration, and her ability to remain compassionate and thoughtful even in the hardest moments was a true reflection of her character.

She is survived by her daughter Mariah Gebhart and son-in-law Eric Gebhart, granddaughters Peyton and Olivia Gebhart, brothers Terry (Jacky) and Greg George and sister Jan (Joe) Johnson, sister-in-law Pam Darling, brother-in-law Uriah Kitchen III and Paul Muzik, her best friend Terri Hollar and a host of nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory and strive to honor the legacy she leaves behind. She is preceded in death by her husband John Kitchen, her mother Janice George, her father Joe George, mother-in-law, Loreto (Dolly) Kitchen, father-in-law, Uriah Kitchen, Jr., brother Wayne George, sister-in-law Patricia Muzik and brother-in-law Steve Kitchen.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date where family and friends can gather in remembrance of a life beautifully lived and a woman deeply loved.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in her memory to Delaware Hospice Center 100 Patriots Way Milford, DE 19963.

Karen’s love will continue to guide us, and her memory will live on in all the lives she touched.

Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.pippinfuneralhome.com

CROOKER, LTCOL CHRISTIAN AINSWORTH, USAF RET.DOVER-Christian (Chris) Ainsworth Crooker, 84, of Dover, Delaware passed aw...
11/18/2025

CROOKER, LTCOL CHRISTIAN AINSWORTH, USAF RET.
DOVER-Christian (Chris) Ainsworth Crooker, 84, of Dover, Delaware passed away on November 14, 2025. He was born on August 31, 1941 in Westerly, Rhode Island to Marion and Ainsworth Crooker. He graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a Bachelor’s degree and received his Master’s degree from Webster College.

Chris proudly served in the United States Air Force, where he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor when flying his favorite plane, the F-100, in Vietnam. He continued his military career flying the C-141 and C-5 out of Dover Air Force Base. After his retirement in 1987, Chris’s love for aviation continued. He became a simulator pilot instructor for Flight Safety International for 20 years, where he trained the next generation of aviators.

He was known for his booming voice, ready smile, and positive outlook when faced with adversity. A long wingspan and a wicked backhand helped him excel on the racquetball and tennis courts. His love of golf culminated with a hole in one on the 4th hole at Wild Quail. Sharing his love of the ocean with his grandchildren was his true joy and nothing brought him more pleasure than having everyone under the same roof at the Outer Banks each summer.

Chris is survived by his beloved wife of 59 wonderful years, Sharon Cameron; his children who were is pride and joy, Laura (Michael) Wright, Sarah (Robert) Ireland, Jonathan (Lorraine) Crooker; eight cherished grandchildren- Abigail, Caroline, Ainsley, Emma, Catherine, Cameron, Brandon, and Ethan; his sister Susan Pitkin; his nephew, Christian; and a wealth of Cameron in-laws.

A visitation will be held on Friday, November 28, 2025 between 2 and 4pm at Pippin Funeral Home, with interment at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you raise a glass of the beverage of your choice in Chris’s honor.

Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.pippinfuneralhome.com

NELSON, DONNA MARIE IAROCCICAMDEN-Donna Marie Iarocci Nelson, 79 passed away peacefully during the morning of November 1...
11/18/2025

NELSON, DONNA MARIE IAROCCI
CAMDEN-Donna Marie Iarocci Nelson, 79 passed away peacefully during the morning of November 11, 2025, in her home with her daughter and son-in-law by her side.

Born September 17, 1946, in Conneaut Ohio to the late Nicola Antonio and Marianina "Lena" Iarocci. She was one of 6 and the baby of her family. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, John Nelson, her sisters, Carolyn and Jeanette, her brothers Peter and Domonick and her Great Granddaughter, Lilly May Seibert.

Donna graduated from Conneaut High School in 1964, where she would proudly say, "Class of 64' Last of the Trojans". She married the love of her life, John, on February 6, 1965.They were married 50 years, prior to his passing. The Military took them to Oklahoma, South Carolina and ended at Dover Air Force Base in 1972, where they settled and called Camden their home.

She worked in retail for 40+ years, 27 years for Kmart, 10 years for Office Max and 10 years for Staples before retiring in 2019. Donna was always the life of the party, a lot of fun to be around and was known for always snapping pictures of everyone in the moment. She was an avid gardener and could normally be found tending to the garden or working around her yard. She was a hard worker, a wonderful cook and baker and enjoyed dancing and listening to 50's music. She was also particularly fond of sports and was a loyal fan of the Cleveland Browns, Ohio State, the Guardians and all Ohio teams. She would always bring a smile to our faces when she put her hands on her hips and tell us she was an FBI, which stood for full blooded Italian. She was very proud of her Italian heritage, loved her family immensely, was a faithful Catholic and attended Holy Cross Church in Dover.

Donna was a friend to all and a true angel on Earth. She was quick to offer a loving lending hand to anyone in need and will be greatly missed by many. Her legacy lives on through her beloved daughter, Gail Seibert and son-in-law, Rob Seibert of Dover, Grandsons, Joshua Seibert (Jen) of Smyrna, Jered Seibert of Frederica, Great Grandson, Logan, her sister Barbara Marker of Conneaut, along with many nieces and nephews scattered throughout the states. She also leaves behind her special friend, Merton (Walt) Walton of Dover.

Funeral services will be private, per Donna's wishes. There will be a Celebration of Life in her hometown of Ohio, early next year.

The family would like to extend a thank you to the wonderful staff at Delaware Hospice Care. Letters of condolence can be sent to www.pippinfuneralhome.com.

APITO, ROBERT S.MAGNOLIA-Robert (Bob) Apito, age 80, of Magnolia, DE, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 10, 202...
11/14/2025

APITO, ROBERT S.
MAGNOLIA-Robert (Bob) Apito, age 80, of Magnolia, DE, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 10, 2025. A devoted husband, stepfather, grandfather and great-grandfather and man of deep faith. He will be remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and steadfast devotion to his family and God.

Born to Antionette and Salvatore Apito, Bob was raised with strong family values and a deep appreciation for faith and service. He was preceded in death by his beloved siblings Ann Rankin, Peter Apito, and Susie Janasy.

A proud graduate of the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology. Bob also taught Religious Education for more than 25 years. His education and faith guided him throughout his life, inspiring his compassion for others and his commitment to living with integrity and purpose.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Carol Apito; stepdaughters; Paula Atkinson, Vickie Plumback (Christopher Plumback), and Dawn Vitello Mangan (Shane Mangan); his seven cherished grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren who brought him immeasurable joy. He took great pride in his family and loved spending time sharing stories, faith, and laughter with them.

Bob will be remembered for his unwavering belief in God, his gentle humor, and the love he shared so freely. His life was a testament to faith, family, and the power of kindness.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Saint Bernadette’s Church in Harrington, Delaware, on November 22, 2025, at 12:00 noon. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Bob’s name to Delaware Food Bank or Plant a Tree in his memory.

Letters of condolence may be sent to: www.pippinfuneralhome.com

BROWN, PAUL JOSEPHSMYRNA-Paul Joseph Brown, 68, of Smyrna, Delaware passed away November 6, 2025 from pancreatic cancer ...
11/13/2025

BROWN, PAUL JOSEPH
SMYRNA-Paul Joseph Brown, 68, of Smyrna, Delaware passed away November 6, 2025 from pancreatic cancer in the care of Accent Hospice at Christiana Hospital. Paul was born December 25, 1956 to the late Judith King (nee: Gernes).

He was preceded in death by his mother; his brother David, his sisters Cheryl and Paula; and his stepfather Jerry King. Paul is survived by his wife Shelly; their children: Clayton, Jessica, and Taren; and his grandson Tristan, whom he said was the greatest joy of his life and his most important person. Family also includes his nephew Max and his wife Meaghan; nephews: Joshua, Caleb, and Jake; and niece May; as well as extended grand nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be private. Online condolences may be made via www.pippinfuneralhome.com.

SALABERRIOS, MIGUEL ANGELSMYRNA-Miguel “Mikey” Salaberrios passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, laug...
11/12/2025

SALABERRIOS, MIGUEL ANGEL
SMYRNA-Miguel “Mikey” Salaberrios passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and kindness that will live on through all who were blessed to know him.

Mikey is survived by his sons Ivan Salaberrios, Noel Salaberrios, and his daughter Alma Pomales. He was preceded in death by his sons Miguel Angel Salaberrios and Manuel Salaberrios. Mikey was a devoted son, brother, uncle, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose heart overflowed with love for his family.

Mikey was a member of Peniel International Worship Center in Smyrna, Delaware, where he loved to hear the word the worship. A hardworking man, he dedicated his life to providing for and uplifting those he cared for most. Known to many as a gentle giant, Mikey had a smile that could brighten any room and a laugh that lifted spirits wherever he went. Mikey’s passion for music, cooking and gardening brought him great joy. He loved collecting vinyl records, old western movies, growing food, and preparing delicious meals.

The seeds of wisdom he planted in those who loved him will continue to grow, connect, and inspire many generations to come. Though his earthly journey has ended, his love will continue to guide and comfort those he leaves behind. Mikey’s warmth, humor, and strength will forever echo in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and friends. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and eternally cherished.

A funeral service will be 11:00 A.M. Friday, November 14, 2025 at the Pippin Funeral Home, 119 W. Camden Wyoming Avenue, Wyoming, DE 19934 where there will be a viewing from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. Friday. Burial will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Camden. Online condolences may be made via www.pippinfuneralhome.com.

BRIGHT, ARTHUR L.FELTON-Arthur L. Bright of Felton, Delaware, passed away peacefully at Westminster Village on November ...
11/10/2025

BRIGHT, ARTHUR L.
FELTON-Arthur L. Bright of Felton, Delaware, passed away peacefully at Westminster Village on November 6, 2025. He was born on December 23,1935 in Greenup, Illinois, to the late Coen and Phyllis Bright.

He graduated from Cumberland High School. He completed his bachelor’s degree in Science at Eastern Illinois University. He served our country in the Army. After honorable discharge, he accepted a teaching position in the Caesar Rodney School District. Here he met his future bride, Ruth Ann. He earned his master’s degree at the University of Delaware. While teaching at the Milford School district, he was honored as the Delaware Industrial Arts Teacher of the year in 1977.

He became a Mason and was a proud member of Union Lodge #7 in Dover, Delaware. After years of hard dedicated work, he was honored as a 33 Degree which was one of his proudest life’s achievements.

For decades, he was an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church. He taught Adult Sunday School class, served on many boards and was the Lay Leader for many years.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years of marriage, Ruth Ann, brothers Coen and Felecian (Fish), sister Ida, and his nephew, Mark.

He is survived by his daughter Lori Ann and her husband Jimmy, as well as the greatest joy of his life, his granddaughter, Ashley and her husband Brett, grand dogs, Teddy and Nizzy. He was also additionally blessed to have a few bonus granddaughters.


Services will be held at Pippin Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 beginning with the viewing at 10am. A Masonic Service will be observed at 11:00 a.m. followed by funeral service led by Pastor Pam Adams. After a drive by of the family farm, interment will be at Barratt’s Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, Art asked that donations be made in his name to Trinity United Methodist Church at P.O. Box 4 Frederica, DE 19946.

We want to extend a very special thank you to the wonderful staff at the memory unit at Brookdale for their loving dedicated care of Dad.

Letters of condolences can be sent via www.pippinfuneralhome.com

HEYLIGER, JOHN R.DOVER-John R. Heyliger was born on March 18, 1964 in Queens, New York, the son of the late Andrew Augus...
11/07/2025

HEYLIGER, JOHN R.
DOVER-John R. Heyliger was born on March 18, 1964 in Queens, New York, the son of the late Andrew Augustus Heyliger and Mary Helen Heyliger. He graduated from John Adams High School in Queens, New York and went on to attend the State University of New York at New Paltz.

In April 1985, John proudly joined the United States Army, serving faithfully until June 1992. A Veteran of the Gulf War Era and Peacetime, John received numerous commendations, including the Army Commendation Medal while serving with the First Battalion (Mechanized), Tenth Infantry. After receiving an honorable discharge, he transitioned to civilian life and built a successful 25-year career in Healthcare Finance. In 2022, John became one of the managing partners of City Wide Facility Solutions Delaware, continuing his commitment to leadership and service.

John loved the Lord with all his heart and soul. His favorite scripture was 1 John 3:2:
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.”
He often reminded those around him, “It doth not appear what it shall be.”

John was a faithful member of 2ndSunday InFellowship…, under the leadership of Pastor Christopher Sims. He deeply valued family and believed that one of the greatest gifts a person could give was the gift of time—time with loved ones, friends, and anyone blessed to cross his path.

A passionate sportsman, John had a lifelong love for basketball. He played throughout high school and college and later founded the Nazarenes Life Skills Through Sports Program, where he coached and mentored youth of all ages. Through this program, he instilled lessons of dedication, perseverance, confidence, leadership, and teamwork. A devoted New York Knicks fan, John made sure everyone knew where his loyalty stood.

Beyond basketball, John enjoyed karaoke, house music, traveling, and being surrounded by those he loved—especially his close-knit circle known as “The Tribe.” His laughter, wisdom, and presence brought joy to every gathering.

On November 4, 2025, at 5:00 a.m., John R. Heyliger peacefully transitioned from labor to reward, declaring victory over the illness that affected his physical body. He found rest with his Heavenly Father and now awaits his crown in glory.

John leaves to celebrate his life and cherish his memory his devoted wife of ten years, Tasheema Heyliger; children: Jonai (Paul) Gibbs of New York, Ariana (Malcolm) Kelley of Kansas, Joshua (Emma) Heyliger of North Carolina, AJ Cobb of New York, and Nicholas Cobb of Delaware; grandchildren Makayla Kelley and Malcolm Kelley Jr.; devoted parents-in-law Millie and William Vazquez Gil; brothers Anthony (Sharon) Heyliger and Augustus (April) Heyliger; tribe brothers Don (Debbie) Hines, Harold (Tashema) Johnson, and Alan Cobb; devoted aunt Gloria (Myke) Quinones; sisters-in-law Tammy Green and Monifa (Sean) Bell; and a multitude of cherished friends from the Hill School, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and family & friends too numerous to name.

John’s legacy of love, faith, and dedication will live on in all who knew him.

A viewing will be from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Friday, November 14, 2025 at the Pippin Funeral Home, 119 W. Camden Wyoming Avenue, Wyoming, DE 19934. A funeral service will be 12:00 P.M. Saturday, November 15, 2025 at the funeral home. Burial will be private. Online condolences may be made via www.pippinfuneralhome.com.

WATSON, EVELYN B.DAGSBORO-Evelyn B. Watson, 80 of Dagsboro DE, died peacefully Monday evening October 27, 2025, at home ...
11/06/2025

WATSON, EVELYN B.
DAGSBORO-Evelyn B. Watson, 80 of Dagsboro DE, died peacefully Monday evening October 27, 2025, at home with her son and daughter in law by her side. She was born January 9, 1945, in Toledo, Ohio and was the daughter of the late George and Clara Garbe.

Evelyn graduated from DeVilbiss High in 1963. She married her love William (Bill)Watson in Zohledorf von Berlin on September 1, 1967.

They traveled all over Europe together before returning to the states in 1970 and settling in Maryland to raise a family. The house was always filled with music and the smells of wonderful food cooking. Cooking was truly one of Evelyn's passions. After Bill's retirement they traveled the U S for a couple years before building their last home here in Bay Colony. Gardening was an interest they shared together, so after planting a beautiful garden at the house, she joined Gardeners by the Sea. Evelyn enjoyed the group of friends made here and always looked forward to the 1st Friday dinners in the community.

In addition to her parents Evelyn was preceded in death by her brother, Robert Garbe. She is survived by her daughter, Angela Watson of Tucson, AZ and her son Ronald Watson and his wife Lori of Dagsboro, DE. Burial will be at Ottawa Hills Cemetery Toledo, OH on November 25, 2025. Services in Delaware to be announced.

Donations may be sent to the Delaware S.P.C.A. Evelyn loved animals very much.

Letters of Condolence may be sent to www.pippinfuneralhome.com

THOMPSON, TRINA RENEDOVER-Trina Rene Thompson of Dover, Delaware, was born on April 20, 1971, to William and Rosa L. Wri...
11/04/2025

THOMPSON, TRINA RENE
DOVER-Trina Rene Thompson of Dover, Delaware, was born on April 20, 1971, to William and Rosa L. Wright in Harrington, DE. She departed this life on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Milford Hospice Center, in Milford, DE surrounded by love and peace.

Trina grew up in Harrington, Delaware and graduated from Lake Forest High school in 1989. Trina went on to receive a Bachelor of Education from Wilmington University in 2000. She dedicated 20 years to teaching in the private, charter and public school system, where her passion for education shone brightly. Trina taught at Telemon Head Start, Caesar Rodney School District, Christian Tabernacle Academy, the Academy of Dover Charter School and Frederick Douglass Elementary School in Seaford, DE. Trina truly loved teaching, it was more than a profession; it was her calling. Rarely a day passed without her speaking about her students with deep care and concern. She found great joy in collaborating with her colleagues, whether they were crafting lesson plans together, sharing laughter during a staff gathering or participating in school events. The camaraderie and mutual support among her fellow educators meant the world to her, and she cherished those bonds deeply.

It was on April 1, 1991, that Trina married her best friend and husband, Malcolm Thompson. Together, they embraced life to the fullest. Trina had a deep love for travel, and it wasn’t long before friends and family would see joyful photos of the two—relaxing at the beach, sailing on a cruise, or simply enjoying a quiet getaway. They also traveled often with friends and family. Their adventures were a testament to the love and laughter they shared.

Trina was also a devoted mother and grandmother who loved her children deeply and unconditionally. She nurtured them with unwavering faith, constant encouragement, and a heart full of love. Whether it was adventurous outings, family vacations, or quiet moments at home, Trina cherished every opportunity to spend time with her children and grandchildren. She was a constant presence in their lives—always attending school events, parent-teacher conferences, and cheering them on from the sidelines. Her support was steadfast, and her pride in their accomplishments was evident to all who knew her.

Trina attended Victory Christian Fellowship Church in Dover, under the leadership of Rev. Eric and Vanessa Brown where she served faithfully in both the church and the community for over 20 years. Her heart was especially drawn to children’s ministry, where she taught Children Church and mentored many young lives with wisdom and compassion. But Trina’s service didn’t stop there—she had a gift for planning and hosting community events, always adding her signature touch to every decoration. Her creativity and joy were unmistakable, and you couldn’t help but notice the twinkle in her eyes and the radiant smile on her face whenever she volunteered to coordinate programs or church events (Vacation Bible School, Back to School events, Hallelujah Community Events, holiday programs and youth trips. The Christmas season held a special place in her heart. She delighted in decorating her home to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and welcomed family with open arms. Her home would overflow with joy, laughter, and the warmth of togetherness—hallmarks of the love she so freely gave. Her presence brought warmth, beauty, and a spirit of celebration to every gathering.

Throughout Trina’s medical challenges, she continued to express her gratitude through laughter and radiant smiles. She often reflected on the joy of having lived a life filled with cherished experiences, a devoted family, loyal friends, and compassionate caregivers. Her spirit remained luminous. Trina truly embodied the essence of a life well lived and always had hope.

Trina was preceded in death by her mother Rosa Lee Wright; and brother Warren Wrght.

Trina was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She leaves to cherish her memory a loving and devoted husband of 34 years Malcolm Thompson; her son Jeremy Thompson, and daughter Alexis Thompson; loving father, Willam Wright; brothers, Earnell Scott, Norman Wright, Emmitt Wright, Chris Wright, and James Wright; sisters Nathalie Pitts, and Norma Jean (Glen)Jenkins; her cherished four grandchildren, Ja’mier Thompson, Keng Willoughby, Ahmad Wilson, and Ya’Zara Thompson: a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving friends who will miss her dearly.

Her warmth, strength, and unwavering love touched the lives of all who knew her. Trina’s legacy of kindness, faith, and compassion will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Funeral Service will be at 11:00 am on November 8, 2025, at Victory Christian Fellowship, 18 Greenhill Ave., Dover, DE 19901. Burial will follow in Barratt’s Chapel Cemetery, Frederica, DE.

Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.pippinfuneralhome.com

11/04/2025

Got extra candy and don't want the calories for yourself? Consider dropping off your surplus to town hall so that we may use it for the Christmas parade.

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119 W. Camden-Wyoming Avenue
Wyoming, DE
19934

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