This section includes obituaries received after June 2020, and is sorted by Graduation Year and the Alum's name while a student at Friends.
Maiden Names appear between [ ].
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Alum '60, Cousin of Alumni ('59 & '64)
Died on April 14, 2021Seth Huntington Jackson III, Friends School Class of 1960, died April 14th, 2021
Seth graduated from the University of Virginia and the University of Virginia School of Medicine.
He then served in the Viet Nam War as a medical officer on the battleship USS New Jersey and was the New Jersey’s last doctor as she was decommissioned after Viet Nam. Seth continued in the Navy serving at a naval air station in Morocco. He then accepted a residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the Naval Regional Medical Center in Philadelphia. Later he became Director of OBGYN at Great Lakes Regional Medical Center where he ended his military career in 1977 with the rank of Commander.
Seth moved to Portland, Oregon where he established a private practice and eventually joined the Downtown Women’s Center where he practiced until retiring from medicine in 2014. Seth's professional life was dedicated to women's health care, and he was an activist in the movement to stop violence toward women.
Alongside his career in medicine Seth farmed in Willamina, Oregon. From 1984 to 2014 his 40-acre farm was given largely to producing organic meats. The farm logo read, "farm fresh for the health of it."
Seth was an extraordinary athlete, but his passion was golf. He had given serious thought to becoming a golf professional but wisely opted for plan B. He practiced his swing with the same dedication he practiced medicine. Part of the farm was given over to a large driving range that he built.
Seth is survived by his wife Jerilee Markle, his children, sister and two first cousins Friends alumni Tim Jackson ’59 and Corlet Jackson Weisel ’64.
In mid-July, friends and family gathered at the farm to “Put Seth Out to Pasture”.
Obituary provided by his friend and former school-mate, John R. Jackson '61.
To view Online Obituary, Click here.
Alum '62, Alumni Sibling '66
Died on January 11, 2025Peter Maitland Clark '62, born on February 8, 1944, in Delaware, passed away peacefully at his home in Newark, Delaware, on January 11, 2025. He was the beloved son of William and Anne Clark.
Peter earned his law degree from Temple University, a testament to his dedication to learning and his love of knowledge. Throughout his life, he was admired for his sharp intellect and dry sense of humor, which brought joy to those who knew him. His love of art and theater was another defining aspect of his character, reflecting his appreciation for history and storytelling.
He is survived by his sister, Anne (A. Merren Clark '66), and his sons Chris and Jeffrey.
Peter will be remembered fondly for his wit, wisdom, and the many ways he enriched the lives of those around him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
All services will be held privately.
Click here to visit Online Obituary and Leave Condolences.
Alum '62, Sibling of Alum ('55)
Date unknownWe recently learned of the passing of Ellen Ginzburg Migliorino '62, upon the passing of her brother, Vittorio Ginzburg '55. Ellen was living in Italy at the time of her passing (sometime prior to 2018).
Alum '62
January 3, 2021Lucius John “John” Harris '62, age 76, of Bradenton, FL, passed away on January 3, 2021, after a bravely fought battle with Covid-19. He was the beloved husband of Charlene for 51 years; cherished father of Vicky Harris, Philip Harris (Dawn) and Frances Connors (Bob); proud grandpa to Madeleine Connors, John “Jack” Connors, Philip Charles Harris and John Alexander Harris and loyal friend of many. He was a true gentleman and was known for his deep, infectious laugh.
Prior to retirement, John resided in Barrington, IL for 39 years after living throughout the South. John was a natural in sales and worked for Citgo Petroleum for 40+ years maintaining a large territory in the U.S. and parts of Canada. He loved his job and finally retired at age 75. After graduating from the University of Tennessee, he became a lieutenant in the U.S Navy for four years and served one year in Vietnam. He was an avid golfer, a passionate Chicago Bears fan and the proud spectator of his grandchildren’s activities. In his brief retirement, he loved to relax by his pool with his wife, sip wine with his neighbors and cruise around town in his new convertible he always wanted. He was happy, vibrant and full of life.
A Funeral Mass in his honor will be held 11:00AM, Saturday, January 23, 2021 at the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea located at 1010 Windsor Lane, Key West, FL. The Mass will also be live-streamed via the following link: https://youtu.be/06DU5JtxAvc
Immediately following, he will be laid to rest in Key West Cemetery. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution can be made to the American Lung Association. Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.
Click here to visit Online Obituary and Leave Condolences.
Alum '62, Alumni Sibling '67
Died on March 27, 2024Betty Jean [Hirschland] Munro '62, of Hudson, Ohio, and Barnard, Vermont, born October 27, 1944, passed away on May 29, 2024. She was married to Donald MacVicar Munro for sixty years. She was the daughter of Jean Gertrude MacIntosh Hirschland (late) of Wilmington, DE and Herbert Ernest Hirschland (late) of Wilton, CT and Barnard, VT, and granddaughter of Gula Anderson Hirschland and Dr. Franz Herbert Hirschland (late) of Harrison, NY. and Barnard, VT.
She attended Wilmington Friends School of Wilmington, DE, graduating in the class of 1962, and the University of Delaware. She is survived by her daughters Ellen Malson (Rick) of Richfield, OH and Kate Hartland (Jay) of Aurora, OH, eight grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and her sister, Marjorie Hirschland Robinson '67 of Chadds Ford, PA.
A celebration of life service will be held 11 AM Saturday, July 27, 2024 at The Barnard Church, 6211 VT Rte 12, Barnard, VT 05031. Donations in Betty's memory can be made to the Unitarian/Universalist Church of Kent, 228 Gougler Ave., Kent, OH 44240.
Arrangements By Johnson-Romito Funeral Home Hudson, Ohio. www.johnsonromito.com
Click here to visit Online Obituary and Leave Condolences.
Alum '62, Sibling of Alumni ('60), 1748 Society
Died on April 1, 2023Deborah Hitt Lane '62, age 79 of Sewanee, died on April 1, 2023 at Elk River Health and Nursing Center of Winchester. She was born on February 26, 1944 in Wilmington, Delaware to William Charles Hitt and Winifred Free Hitt. Debbie graduated from Wilmington Friends School, Sophie Newcomb College (Tulane), and the University of Houston where she received her Master's Degree in Anthropology. She was a research associate at American University in Washington, D.C.; later she was a teacher at the Village School in Houston. She was a member of the Junior League in Washington, D.C., Atlanta, and Houston.
After moving to Sewanee, she was involved with several organizations including the Appalachian Women's Guild in Tracy City and was a past treasurer of Otey Parish.
A lover of animals of all types; over the years she had several horses, dogs, and too many cats. She was a supporter of Animal Harbor in Winchester.
Debbe was preceded in death by her parents and older sister, Sarah Hitt Winston '60. She is survived by her husband of fifty-four years, Gordon; daughters, Dr. Sarah Turner Lane of Houston, and Stephanie Lane Moran (Robert) of the Bronx; grandchildren, Wyatt, Mateo, and Lucas.
Interment will be at Chattanooga National Cemetery. A celebration of life will take place at a later date.
Moore-Cortner Funeral Home, 300 First Ave NW, Winchester, TN 37398, (931)-967-2222, www.moorecortner.com.
Published by Moore-Cortner Funeral Home - Winchester on Apr. 4, 2023.
Click here to visit Online Obituary and Leave Condolences.
Alum '62, Sibling of Alumni ('57, '61 and '65)
Died on January 18, 2022Anne Marshall Brinsfield '62 passed away peacefully on October 5, 2022. She was born in Wilmington, DE to the late Thomas E. and Margaret C. Marshall. Anne was a graduate of Wilmington Friends and Penn State. She taught for many years at Greenville Elementary and AI duPont Middle School. Anne was a member and avid golfer at Wilmington Country Club and Jupiter Hills Country Club. Anne had a flair for fashion and the only thing more important than Penn State football were her family and friends. Anne was preceded in death by her husband, Jay R. Brinsfield and her sister, Patricia E. Marshall '65. Anne is survived by her brothers, Peter C. Marshall '61 (Jill) and John T. Marshall '57, her step-children Glenn W. Brinsfield (Marcia), Cynthia A. McLaughlin (Brian), and Eric J. Brinsfield (Martha Lynn), 4 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her memory can be made to the J. Wood Platt Caddie Scholarship Fund, 1974 Sproul Road, Suite 400 Broomall, PA 19008 www.plattscholar.org Services and burial will be private. To send condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com.
Posted online on October 08, 2022
Published in The News Journal
Click here to visit Online Obituary and Leave Condolences.
Alum '62, 1748 Society
Died on March 27, 2024Walter Pyle Smith '62
He was born October 3, 1944 in Lawrence, Kansas the son of the late Frederick H. 1930 and Katherine Pyle Smith. Walter is survived by his wife of 34 years, Jeannette Chaffee Smith.
Mr. Smith was a graduate of Wilmington Friends School in the Class of 1962 where he was an outstanding football player. He then graduated from Ursinus College in the Class of 1966 where he also played on the football team.
In 1989 he began his career as the regional sales manager for the newly-formed Civil Construction Division of the A.B. Chance Company, distributors of helical piles. In 2000 he joined GeoStructures for 3 years before going with Danbro Company where he became Vice President of Sales. He spent countless hours educating and convincing specifiers and geotechnical engineers that helical piles were a valuable tool in outdoor construction. He retired in 2018.
Walter was a member of Gettysburg United Methodist Church. He and his wife were founding member of the Land Conservancy of Adams County, he was a member of Historic Gettysburg – Adams County and the Gettysburg VFW. He also volunteered with the Salvation Army Bell Ringers at Christmas time.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Rebecca Smith and Christine Smith (Ryan Allred); grandsons, Fletcher and James Allred; a stepson, Andrew Chapo (Victoria); a sister, Katherine Carlozzi; a sister-in-law, Suzanne Smith; two nieces, a nephew, and many cousins.
He was predeceased by his brother, Frederick S. Smith.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 4, 2024 at Gettysburg United Methodist Church at 11 a.m. with Rev. Rick Smith officiating.
Interment will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Gettysburg.
There will be a viewing at Monahan Funeral Home in Gettysburg on Wednesday, April 3rd from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Wilmington Friends School, 101 School Road, Wilmington, DE 19803.
Online obituary and condolences available at the funeral home’s website.
Click here to visit Online Obituary and Leave Condolences.
Alum '63, Child of Alum ('37), Sibling of Alum ('61)
Died on January 18, 2022Lysbeth Bonner Joslin '63, better known as Lisa, or the Crazy Cat Lady (Reformed) began her inspection of the Great Beyond on January 18th, 2022. It was about time she was in charge of how she got around for a change, trading in her body for… however they get around Over There. She’ll be letting us know, that’s for sure.
She was born in 1945 to parents William F. Bonner jr., an architect she says designed outhouses or such like for the Manhattan Project and Salome Righter Tome '37, a Delaware artist with a heck of a name. She was the middle child, which was awkward. She and her little brother played kids' records backwards and memorized the lyrics, with hits like “Eggbert the Easter Egg.” Reverse lyrics don’t translate to the written page, but it went something like “Egg beer a boppin, yip yip yip. Onka onka nick-a-nack. Boom, Fitzgerald. Bock. Bock.” She tried her luck with horses, but that was her big sister’s thing. Thus she followed her own passions, starting young: Art, slight hyperbole, and a mild aversion to wealth.
She started her lifelong accrual of student debt at Wesleyan Women’s College in Macon, Georgia. She graduated with the proper use of the word “y’all” (there is no plural form for ‘you’ in the English language) and BA in Education. Next up was Hahnemann University in Philadelphia, where she completed her first Masters. She was among the first registered Art Therapists in the mid-Atlantic states. This was just the beginning of a career involving the clinical analysis of tens of thousands of crayon drawings of people, trees, and houses. Not to mention papier-mâché masks, toothpick thingies, and glitter glue whirls. She had a knack at communicating with those with significant learning differences- and a thorn in the side to any bureaucrat that got in her way. Her second Masters was in Special Education from the University of Delaware, and we swear there’s a third but we can’t find it. She was an unsung hero to Delaware’s kids (and one or two from North Carolina).
With the help of her former husband, she had a kid of her own in ‘72. Together, mother and son decorated many Christmas trees with ornaments decapitated by felines or other ill fortune- delighting in headless things with almost pathological glee. She sang him nursery rhymes about worms meeting untimely demises upon railroad tracks, and planting watermelons atop graves. This is because she wanted him to be a normal child, plainly. Normalcy was never in her- or his- cards.
Her claims to fame include interrupting the late Sir Sidney Poitier at dinner, meeting the actor who played the Lion in the Wizard of Oz (he was “a grumpy puss”), and teaching alongside President Biden’s sister Valerie at Wilmington Friends School. She boldly appeared as Penelope in a stage adaptation of “Dudley Do-Right” (community theatre is all guts, no glory). Her abstract artwork has been displayed at the Delaware Art Museum, but she also did celebrity portraits in a pinch. Absent babysitters yet furthering normalcy, she took her son to Women’s Liberation meetings, and to ParaStudy, a psychic research institute in Pennsylvania. She had a love for the ineffable, the indescribable, the unknown. A vanishingly rare quality.
Lisa excelled at presuming things to be lost or stolen, only to be misplaced, usually near a junk drawer. It happens. Other notables include making use of any empty space whatsoever, because you never know when you might Need That Thing. She did not hoard, it should be noted. She collected with purpose (there’s a difference). Collections included books, art supplies, canned goods, paper towels, important mail, and coffee creamer. She liked her coffee black.
She retired to Dover, Delaware after a long life in public service. She liked the service part, not the public. Lisa was a champion of the underdog, though she’d probably say undercat. She was most recently employed as a Social Worker with Connections in Wilmington where her friends were the rough and tumble folk with unusual nicknames. She was restless in retirement, always scheming how to cross Route 13 on her walker or do better at knocking people over with her scooter in the grocery store. She doted on her cat. For the record she did not name her “Fuzzy” because, as she’d tell you, the name indicated an obvious and redundant quality. Previously, she has been the cat mom to Pole, Halloween, Mojo, Sassy, Cleo, and Agrippa (as in Henry Cornelius the Alchemist, she didn’t name any of those, actually).
Lisa in her later days reminded us that it was her “job to be inappropriate.” She was, in many ways, a punk rocker, a maverick, a rebel. Once, she was chastised at a hospital job for concealing her identity badge with a Count Von Count sticker from Sesame Street. She believed it was perfectly fine to draw mustaches on ladies’ magazines at doctors’ offices, and say the quiet things out loud. She said “I’m sorry” a lot, but there was- and is- never anything to apologize for in service to being a radical individual.
Lisa is survived by her sister, Theo “Bonnie” [Bonner] Hayslette '61 and her baby brother William “Billy” Bonner III, and their respective large families. Her son, Theodore “Jay” Joslin, lives in Asheville NC and is thankful he turned out weirdly. Her dearest friends include Judy & Bill Blatz of Wilmington, and Kim & Bill Brockenbrough of Clayton. Many people consider her family- throughout Delaware and in western North Carolina where some of her ashes will be carried in the wind and might just wind up in a firework or two. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date when we can find a bagpiper who can play “Dancing Queen” by Abba.
In lieu of flowers, love relentlessly and do something truly cantankerous while you have the chance, or adopt an elderly cat. And… get boosted already (her sentiments).
PS: Mom, heaven is keyless entry. You’re all good.
Click here to visit Online Obituary and Leave Condolences.
Alum '63, Parent of Alumni ('86)
Died on February 21, 2020Sarah “Sally” Nauman Dougherty '63
James and Estelle Smith Nauman welcomed their daughter, Sally, to the world on April 18,1944 in Wilmington, DE. Sally's fondest memories of childhood were times spent at Camp Winnemont and family visits to Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. She attended Wilmington Friends School and Lasell Junior College.
She married John Dougherty after graduation and the couple moved to Atlantic City, NJ. There her son, Marc, was born. Shortly after, the family moved to Roanoke, Va where daughter, Sharon arrived to the family. Sally loved her children dearly, always encouraging them to go after their dreams.
In 1975, the family moved to Hockessin, DE. Here Sally developed her successful career in real estate, working for Patterson Schwartz for nearly twenty years. Life evolved and in 2003 she resettled across the country in Bellingham, WA.
Sally's creative, energetic and humorous soul forever sought to enrich her own life and those around her. She was a devoted volunteer to the Longwood Gardens (PA), Delaware Theater and St. Joseph's Hospital (WA). She was a Birthright Member of the Fourth and West Meeting House in Wilmington, DE. The interests she shared with others encompassed gardening, painting, sailing, sewing, culinary endeavors and hiking. Her unquenchable zest for adventure and passion for nature led her into improv classes, Spiritual Living workshops, a biking club, hikes throughout the Cascades and travels around the globe, some of her fondest being Galapagos, Africa, Greece and Banff.
Sally met death gracefully on the eve of February 21, 2020 near her final home in Hockessin, DE where she'd lived since 2012. She is survived by son, Marc Dougherty '86, daughter, Sharon, sister, Carol, brother, George Nauman '65, a niece, nephews, a sponsor child and many cherished friends across the country.
Click here to visit Online Obituary and Leave Condolences.
Alum '64, Parent of Alumni ('93)
Died on January 14, 2023Mary Ruffner [Bloomsburg] Wemlinger '64, 77, of Greenville, Delaware, passed away January 14, 2023 after a short illness.
Born in 1945, she was the daughter of Marvin and Martha Bloomsburg. She was preceded in death by her husband, Vince, and is survived by her son, Vincent the Third '93.
Mary was a graduate of Wilmington Friends School and Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, where she was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. She was a long time board member of the Junior Board of Christiana Care, the Questers Group, and her friends at the Pure Bread Coffee Shop. Mary enjoyed her family, cooking, and gardening. She was a joyful light to all who knew her, and will be greatly missed.
The family asks for donations to be made to Wilmington Friends School, 101 School Road, Wilmington, DE 19803 or the Junior Board of Christiana Care, P.O. Box 1668, Wilmington, DE 19899 in lieu of flowers.
Funeral Services
Memorial service and burial will be private.
To view Online Obituary, Click here.
Rigmor “Ria” Jelshøj Lerche '64 - AFS Exchange Student
Early Saturday morning August 15th, 2020, Ria passed away at a hospital in Copenhagen with her son Anders at her side. Ria had been ill with cancer for 10 years. She had been through numerous operations and chemotherapy, but managed to live a rich life despite all the limitations her illness imposed upon her. In October 2019 she even attended the 55th reunion of her class at Friends school. She was tough!
Apart from the year abroad Ria lived all her life in Denmark. After highschool she became a dentist. She worked at a public dental clinic for kids. Half of her career she was in charge of the prophylactic treatment in Odense, the town where she lived. She also arranged national workshops about dental prophylaxis for colleagues employed in this field.
At the age of 63 Ria retired and moved to Copenhagen where she enjoyed going to plays at theaters and visiting cafés with friends. Ria sang in a choir for a couple of years and all along she was active in a philosophy group and a literature group.
Ria was married to Anders' dad, Søren, for a decade. After the divorce she and Anders moved to a commune where they enjoyed the company of 20 other families, most of them with kids around Anders' age. Since 1985 Ria had a boyfriend, Eric. Ria bought a cottage on a small Danish island, Læsø, and Ria and Eric spent many good times there. Sadly Eric died in 2005.
Ria's son Anders, 50 years old, has lived and taught in Greenland for the past ten years, therefore Ria has visited Greenland quite often. Apart from that she has traveled to other exotic places including Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Morocco, Iceland, and the Faroe islands.
Ria didn't have any grandkids herself, but she was happy to be part of her sister's family, which includes 5 grandkids. Ria and her sister inherited a cottage in Tisvilde north of Copenhagen which has been the scene of many fun family reunions.
The year 1963-64 spent with the Danns and as a student at Friends had a great positive impact on the rest of Ria's life. She kept the connection with her host family and with many friends from school whom she has often seen through the years.
Ria will be deeply missed by family and friends in Denmark and in the U.S.
Source: Ria’s Sister, Tove Jelshøj
We were saddened to learn of the passing of Elizabeth “Betsy” Ryan ’64. At this time, we do not have an obituary to share. If you have information or memories you would like to contribute, please contact Lynne Nathan at lnathan@wilmingtonfriends.org
Alum '64, Sibling of Alumni ('63, '70)
Died on January 20, 2023Christopher John Whitney '64, MD passed away peacefully in the presence of his wife and son at Christiana Hospital on January 20, 2023. He was born in Brooklyn, NY to Lesley W Whitney, MD and Joan Davidson Whitney who both predeceased him. The family moved from Philadelphia, PA to Wilmington, DE, with a short time in Opa-locka, FL before settling back in Wilmington. It was in Wilmington that Chris would make life-long friends and practice surgery with his father. Chris graduated from Wilmington Friends School in 1964 and maintained his friendship with many of his classmates over the years, always attending Homecoming and the rivalry football games. It was with great pride that he saw his son graduate from Wilmington Friend School in 2012. Chris would go on to graduate from Bucknell University in 1968. While there, he was a member of the Delta Upsilon fraternity and again established lasting friendships. He gathered for a 50th reunion with his fraternity brothers on Hilton Head Island and found that time did not dim the memories. After college, Chris served in the Army, stationed in Thailand. He fell in love with the country, its people, and the language, learning Thai to near fluency and retaining it through much of his life. He was honorably discharged in 1971. Chris went on to pursue his master’s degree in Biology from the University of Delaware, where he was a laboratory teaching assistant and a published researcher. Chris’ life-long passion was to become a surgeon. During high school he was an orderly at the Delaware Hospital, now known as Wilmington Hospital. He attended Temple University Medical School (The Lewis Katz School of Medicine) from 1975 – 1979. To celebrate their graduation, Chris and his study group found their way to the Whitney family lake house on Lake George in Huletts Landing, NY, filling it to the brim and creating many fond memories. Chris did his residency in General Surgery at Temple University Hospital, and in 1984, returned to Wilmington to join his father in their surgical practice, specializing in the treatment and management of breast cancer. The approach Chris took in the care of his patients was one of genuine compassion and dedication to help them manage their individual treatment needs. He was a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons and was focused on continual learning and teaching others. He was a member of the Surgical Education Committee at ChristianaCare. His love of teaching surgical residents was evident as he enthusiastically participated in treks to the anatomy lab in Baltimore. He also participated in presenting the resident mock oral examinations. He relished the annual opportunity to interview surgical residency candidates, getting to know each candidate and to carefully assess who would be the best for the surgical residency program. Chris retired from active surgical practice in 2015 but continued to be active in multi-disciplinary care conferences for several years. Chris’ service extended to a position on the Board of Camp Tockwogh, and fund raising for the Strong Kids program. He was also a participant in the Faculty Circle fundraising for Wilmington Friends School and a member of True Blue for Friends. Chris enjoyed the outdoors, fly fishing, sailing, skiing, gardening, gourmet cooking, languages (Thai, Italian, and French), show tunes, and a little golf. Some of his favorite vacation spots were The Tyler Place and Stratton Mountain in Vermont, Steamboat Springs, Outer Banks, Long Beach Island, and of course his beloved Lake George. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca, and son, Christopher '12 ( Tori Ferrara ), his siblings, Jennifer [Whitney] Farver '63 (Jeffrey), Jonathan Whitney, Heather Whitney Price '70, Holly Whitney, his nephew Jeremy Farver and nieces, Jill Smith (Grant), Jessica Finnigan (Connor) and Matilda Whitney Bartholomew (Christian). He was predeceased by his brother, Timothy Whitney. Chris’ wry sense of humor and enthusiastic love of music will be missed by all. “I am the master of my fate , I am the captain of my soul “ ( Invictus ) Memorial services will be held at Wilmington Friends School, 20 Granite Road, Wilmington, DE 19803, Lower School Meeting Room on Saturday, February 25, 2023, at 1:00pm. A spring internment at Horsham Friends Meeting will be held with a date yet to be determined. Contributions in Chris’ memory can be made to YMCA Camp Tockwogh,24370 Still Pond Neck Road, Worton, MD 21678, The University of Delaware, designated for the Biology Department, Office of Development and Alumni Relations, 83 E. Main Street, Newark, DE 19716; or Wilmington Friends School, 101 School Road, Wilmington, DE 19803.
Posted online on February 07, 2023
Published in The News Journal
To view Online Obituary, Click here.
William “Bill” R. DeGraw, Jr. '65, of Lewisville, passed away surrounded by family on Saturday, July 13, 2024. He was born in Pompton Lakes, New Jersey to William and Urana “Rainy” DeGraw. Bill graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1971 and attended Wake Forest University School of Law, graduating in 1975. Bill was a successful attorney for many years with Wilson, DeGraw & Miller before retiring to focus on his late wife’s battle with breast cancer. Bill was a proud veteran, having served in the United States Marine Corps. An avid fisherman, Bill fished all over the world and kept a log of every fish he caught. He was happiest with a bent rod in hand whether he was offshore at Hatteras, in the Bahamas, wading rivers in the North Carolina mountains, or exploring the waters of some other exotic locale. Some of his proudest fishing accomplishments were the 1,337lb blue marlin he caught off the shore of Ascension Island, fly fishing for sailfish in Guatemala, and his personal record of catching over 2,000 trout within one year in the North Carolina mountains. Bill was known for his intellect, generous and kind heart, sense of humor, and adventurous approach to life. A devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, he will be dearly missed by all those who loved him. Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Kay E. [Morris] DeGraw '66. He is survived by his two daughters and their spouses, Jennifer Scott DeGraw (Michael Maddy) and Lauren DeGraw Webb (Graeme Webb); and two grandchildren, Bennett and Lisle. Bill is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Martin '71 and Denise DeGraw, and their son, Dylan, of New Bern. The family plans to hold a private memorial service at a future date.
To view Online Obituary, Click here.
The school has received news from Margaret [Landefeld] Mitchell 's solicitor that she has passed away, but no other details were made available.
Alum '65, Sibling of Alumni ('57, '61 & '62)
Died on May 31, 2022Patricia "Patty" Emilie Marshall '65 passed away unexpectedly on May 31, 2022.
She was born in Wilmington, DE to the late Thomas E. and Margaret C. Marshall. Patty was a graduate of Wilmington Friends School and the University of Kentucky. She worked at Tower Hill School as a physical education teacher, coach, and assistant athletic director for 41 years before retiring in 2010. Patty was a member and avid golfer at Wilmington Country Club.
Patty was recognized during Tower Hill's Centennial celebration as "a gifted teacher who was able to foster skills such as character development, good sportsmanship and teamwork. With an easy positive approach, she was able to teach her students to be risk takers, and believe that through effective effort they would find success." She led Tower Hill's 1971 girls' basketball team in their undefeated run to the state championship game. Throughout her years at Tower Hill, Patty led many teams and taught hundreds of students in her unassuming humble way. Always with a positive approach, easy smile, and a good laugh.
She is survived by her sister, Anne [Marshall] Brinsfield '62, her brothers, Peter C. Marshall '61 (Jill) and John T. Marshall '57. Patty was preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Jay R. Brinsfield.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Baetjer Fund for Teaching at Tower Hill or to Faithful Friends Animal Society of Delaware at www.faithfulfriends.us
Services and burial will be private. To send condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com.
Posted online on June 04, 2022
Published in The News Journal
To view Online Obituary, Click here.
Alum '65, Sibling of Alumni ('67, '71)
Died on January 6, 2025Patricia [Peterson] Skelly '65 passed away on January 6, 2025. She was the daughter of Margaret F. and Robert Nord Peterson. Her siblings, Mildred ex. ’67 and Mary [Peterson] Colhoun ’71, also attended Wilmington Friends School. Patricia married Thomas McFarland Skelly in September of 1967.
During her years at Friends, Patricia was an enthusiastic member of the cheerleading squad, appeared in many school plays, and sang with the senior high chorus. She was remembered for her lovely singing voice and her joyful spirit. Her senior page noted, “There’s always gaiety and laughter when Patty is around,” and predicted that “Ten Years Hence” she would still be “singing at the Bitter End.” After graduation, Patricia attended Bradford Junior College.
Her passing was shared with the School by her daughter-in-law, Sara [Titus] Skelly ’90, wife of Christopher Skelly.
No Online Obituary available at the time of posting.
Alum '65; Alumni Legacy ('31); Sibling of Alumni ('60, '62)
Died on September 11, 2025Susan “Snooze” Stephenson Gates '65, age 77, of Winston-Salem, NC, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 11, at her home in Arbor Acres.
Susan was born on November 17, 1947, in Wilmington, DE, to Elizabeth and Thomas W. Stephenson '31. From a young age she excelled at athletics, earning 13 varsity letters at Friends School before going on to Wheaton College, where she captured two NCAA Women’s Squash titles. These accomplishments earned her induction into the Collegiate Squash Hall of Fame—an achievement she cherished throughout her life.
In 1970, Susan married the love of her life, John Gates, with whom she shared nearly 52 wonderful years before his passing in December 2021. Together they built a full and joyful life—raising two children, traveling widely, and creating a bond of love and partnership that was evident to all who knew them.
Susan will be remembered for her warm sense of humor, her enormous and widespread kindness, and her creativity. A passionate needlepointer, she twice owned her own retail shops—one dedicated to her needlepoint designs and another featuring a curated mix of handmade and collected items that spoke to her eye for beauty and detail. She was also a mean Bridge player.
“Snooze,” as she was affectionately known, is survived by her son Andrew Bradley Stephenson Gates, daughter Susan Anna Constance Gates, brother Tom Stephenson '60, and three beloved grandchildren—Kate, Henry, and Emma.
A celebration of Susan’s life will be held on Sunday, November 2, at 2 p.m. at Arbor Acres in Winston-Salem. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) at https://www.breakthrought1d.org/. Condolences may be shared online at www.salemfh.com.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the entire Arbor Acres staff for their compassionate care and the comfort they provided both Snooze and John during the past 15 years.
Click here to view the online obituary.
SIblings: Thomas Stephenson '60, Nancy [Stephenson] Nichols '62 *Dec
Alum '65, Sibling of Alumni ('70), Child of Former Faculty
Died on February 20, 2024Roland Henry Woodward '65 (10/1/47-2/20/24), son of the late Roland Woodward and the late Mary Connell Woodward (F&S 1954-79), was born in Secane, PA and lived most of his life in West Chester, PA.
From an early age until his upper school graduation in 1965, Roland attended Wilmington Friends School, where his mother was a teacher. In 1969, Roland earned a BA in History from Earlham College in Richmond, IN. A conscientious objector during the Vietnam War, he completed his two years of alternative service as an orderly at Bethesda Naval Hospital (now Walter Reed National Military Medical Center) in Washington, DC. He then attended the University of Delaware as a Hagley Fellow, pursuing his MA in Museum Management.
From 1973-1980, Roland served as museum curator at the Historical Society of Delaware, then lived on site for a year at Washington’s Crossing National Park, serving as Director. In 1981, he became President and Director of the Chester County Historical Society (now the Chester County History Center). Serving for 23 years, he was instrumental in many improvements, including purchasing the YMCA building next door, renovating that building as well as Cultural Hall, and developing state-of-the-art exhibits.
After leaving CCHS in 2003, Roland became a consultant to museums, working with a wide variety of institutions. In 2005, he became Director of the Baltimore Museum of Industry, serving until his retirement in 2014. Here, too, he was instrumental in renovating buildings and supporting state-of-the art museum displays. Bringing this organization to financial solvency was a special achievement. Never wanting to leave Chester County, his family, and the family farm, Roland resided in both Baltimore and West Chester.
Upon his retirement in 2014, he returned to his books, music, and gourmet cooking in West Chester. His extensive book collection includes biographies and books on history (American history was his area of expertise), religion, poetry, and the arts.
A member of Birmingham Friends Meeting from birth, Roland also sang as a choirboy at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in West Chester for 6 years. These two organizations made a strong impression on him. Roland never forgot the people he met while completing his alternative service, often telling stories of his time at Bethesda Naval Hospital. He always had a great respect for those in the military.
Roland is survived by his wife of 25 years, Faith, and three daughters and one stepdaughter: Rebecca Woodward Tabbutt (Joseph), Hannah Woodward, Sarah Woodward Pressman (Benjamin), and Laura Woolford Izzo (Michael), as well as six grandchildren: Anna and Patrick Tabbutt, Brooks and Albert Pressman, and Dominic and Carmela Izzo. He was predeceased by his first wife, Anne Spivey Woodward, in 1996.
A Memorial Meeting for Worship will be held at Birmingham Friends Meeting, 1245 Birmingham Road, West Chester, PA on March 9th, 2024 at 11am.
To view Online Obituary, Click here (URL will be provided soon).
Alum '66, Sibling of Alumni ('68, '71 & '72), Child of Alumna ('36)
Died on May 7, 2022William Robert Ellis '66 (Bill) was born to William Charles Ellis and Winifred Nixon Ellis '36 in Berkeley, California on June 29, 1948. The family moved to Greenville, Delaware just a few years later, following W.C. Ellis’s work for Hercules Powder Company. There, Bill grew up with brothers Michael Nixon (Nick) '68, Thomas Harper (Tom) '71 and sister Edith Patricia (Pat) '72.
After attending Wilmington Friends school, Bill spent time in college and traveling. His travels eventually had him drive across country in his 1958 Corvette. In California he would meet Sallie Stout. Bill and Sallie eventually traveled back to the East Coast. The couple married on Halloween in 1970. Bill and Sallie settled in Wells, Maine where they raised son Ryan William Charles Ellis (Ryan). After finishing school Bill took a job as an Engineering Technician at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, where he would work for more than 40 years until retiring in 2018. Always fascinated by how things worked, Bill enjoyed several rides on submarines during the sea trials he contributed to.
Bill had a lifetime love of cars. His early automotive interest can be noted as he turned his family’s farm shop into a racing garage where he and his friends gathered to build hot-rods. Bill was the eldest child and had the responsibility for driving his siblings to school. One consequence of his hot-rodding interests – the family had many spirited rides to school. In his retirement Bill drove his replica 1964 Cheetah every opportunity he had. In the evenings Bill could often be found watching drag racing while cleaning materials for Sallie’s wind chime business. He had a natural draw to animals, having had many family dogs, cats, and birds throughout his life. Bill also enjoyed live music, having recently enjoyed seeing a personal favorite, Martin Barre, at a small local venue with Ryan.
Bill was predeceased by both his parents. He is survived by brothers Nick, of Southern Pines, N.C.; Tom, of Wilmington, DE; and sister Pat, of Kennebunkport, ME; as well as several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his wife, Sallie, of nearly 52 years and son, Ryan (44), both of Wells, ME.
The family will have a private Celebration of Life at a date to be determined.
In his honor, donations may be made to the Dempsey Center by going to this link https://support.dempseycenter.org/participant/fordad2022.
To share a memory or to leave a message of condolence, please visit Bill’s Book of Memories Page at www.bibberfuneral.com.
Arrangements are in care of Bibber Memorial Chapel, 111 Chapel Rd. Wells, ME 04090.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William Robert Ellis please visit our Tribute Store.
To view Online Obituary, Click here.
Alum '66; Spouse of Alum ('65)
Died on May 13, 2013Kay E. [Morris] DeGraw '66 of Lewisville passed away on May 13, 2013 after succumbing to a 23 year battle with breast cancer. She was born in Cleveland, Ohio to George and Elizabeth Morris. She is survived by her husband of 43 years, retired attorney, William R. DeGraw, Jr. '65, daughter Jennifer S. DeGraw, Special Assistant United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia, daughter Lauren DeGraw Armstrong, currently pursuing a Masters degree in Occupational Therapy at East Carolina University, and son-in-law M. Christopher Armstrong, a rising second year student at the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. Kay is also survived by Dr. Martin and Denise DeGraw, and son Dylan of New Bern. Kay attended Cornell University and graduated in 1970, majoring in Mathematics. She worked for Wachovia Bank & Trust for 10 years in systems programming and technical support. An accomplished photographer and acrylic and watercolor artist, Kay also loved to travel to exotic locales such as Kenya, Ecuador, and Guatemala. She was a devoted mother, loving wife, and loyal friend. Her warm smile, sense of fairness, positive attitude, and penetrating wit were admired by all who knew her. Kay's strength and spirit were an inspiration to us all. She will be greatly missed and never forgotten. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 PM on Friday May 17 at Hayworth-Miller Lewisville Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Comprehensive Cancer Center at Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem. On line condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com
Click here to view the online obituary.
Alum '66; Sibling of Alumna ('69)
Died on Sept. 9, 2022Robert R. Ullrich '66, 74, of St. Augustine, Florida, affectionately known as Bobby, died, 9/9/22. Bobby was born in Chicago Illinois in April of 1948. He was raised in Wilmington Delaware by his parents Robert and Harriett Ullrich of Wilmington Delaware. Bobby graduated from Wilmington friends School in 1966 and went to Jacksonville University in 1967. He came home for vacation and found his draft notice for Vietnam and elected to enlist in the Army. He served from Jan 1967 – 1968 in Vietnam mostly in the Delta region during the Tet Offensive. Bobby Was a Private First Class in the 235-Armed Helicopter Company. He was awarded the Air Medal with "V" Device and the Air Medal (First Oak Leaf Cluster) with "V" Device Dec 67 and the Award of the Army Commendation Medal in March 68. After being Honorably discharged in 1968, Bobby returned to JU, graduating in 1973 with a BA in Sociology. He also enjoyed playing soccer and baseball. Bobby joined the Jacksonville Police Department for 5 years and then enjoyed being a route salesman for many years in Jacksonville and Delaware. Moving back to Delaware in 1988 he met his future wife in 1990. She remembers how he always talked throughout the years about retiring to St Augustine; that was his dream. His dream came true in 2011 when they moved to St Augustine. He loved spending time in the garden and watching all sports on TV. He had a "gift" in recalling statistics on any player, any sports, at any given time. He loved his family deeply and his little Westie, Roo. Bobby is survived by his wife, May Ullrich of St. Augustine, his Father, Robert Ullrich and his companion June Peterson of Hockessin, Delaware, his Uncle Carl and Rebecca Ullrich of Virginia Beach, VA, his sister Tricia Ullrich '69 of Westgrove, PA, Gretchen Baugh, his daughter from his first marriage, son in law Brian Baugh, and his two grandsons Colby and Jacob all of Key West, FL, a special family friend, Chrissy Thomas and Cortell of Wilmington, De. Bobby leaves a host of cousins, friends, and loved ones. The Ullrich Family and friends would like to make a special thank you to the MICU and SICU teams at Flagler Hospital whose endless talents and dedication provided Bobby with the very best of Medical Care. Special Thank you also to the Bailey Center at Flagler Hospital for their incredible empathy, care, and devotion to their work. Donations can be made to MICU or SICU or Bailey Center at Flagler Hospital in St. Augustine in lieu of flowers. Funeral services will be held 10:00 AM Wednesday September 21, 2022, at Craig Funeral Home Chapel. Graveside service with military honors will be held 1:30 PM Wednesday at Jacksonville National Cemetery.
The service will be live streamed for those unable to attend: https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/authorise.php?k=1663614552208871
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Craig Funeral Home on Sep. 20, 2022.
Click here to view the online obituary and leave condolences.
Alum '67; Sibling of Alumna ('64, '69, '71, '75 & '78*); Child of Former Trustee
Died on Sept. 14, 2022Roger Conant Cook ’67 of Daly City, CA, passed away unexpectedly on September 14, 2022 in San Francisco, CA.
Roger was born in New York City March 2, 1949, son of the late Donald Bowker Cook and Elizabeth Conant Cook (former Clerk, WFS Board of Trustees).
Growing up in Wilmington in the company of his siblings, Dorothy ’64, Elisabeth (Lissa) ’69, Alan ’71, Avery ’75, and Peter ’78, Roger excelled in football and track and field events at Friends School. He attended Juniata College.
Roger spent most of his adult life in San Francisco as owner/manager of The Nomad Cyclery bicycle shop, a legacy small business in the outer Sunset District.
Bicycling was his passion, and he enjoyed long-distance bike trips with friends in California, New Mexico, and central Pennsylvania. Autumn, when the fall foliage was at its peak, was his favorite time to visit family and friends in Pennsylvania and Vermont. He also was interested in trains of all kinds, and enjoyed canine company.
Roger was an independent free-spirit who lived life with enthusiasm, and especially loved California.
He is survived by his close friends in California, George and Andre Chevalier, and by his siblings and their spouses, nieces and nephews and grandnieces & grandnephews. His parents and brother Peter pre-deceased him. A Memorial meeting and internment was held at Menallen Friends Meeting, Biglerville, PA on October 29, 2022. Memorial contributions may be sent to Menallen Friends Meeting, P.O. Box 29 Biglerville, PA 17307 or Wilmington Friends School, 101 School Road, Wilmington, DE 19803.
Click here to view the online obituary and leave condolences.
Alum '72; Sibling of Alumni ('72)
Died on Nov. 23, 2021Ames - Jonathan Bruce Katz '67 was born to Charles Joseph Katz and Ruth Pauline Werner Katz on December 8, 1949 in Wilmington, Delaware. He died at the age of 71 at home in Ames, Iowa, on November 23, 2021.
Jon spent most of his childhood in Delaware, and attended Rutgers University and Colorado College. He served his country as a medical researcher for three years in the U.S. Navy at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, and graduated with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Washington State University in 1981. By this time, he had met and married Myrna Lee Blanchard and had three children, Jared Paul Katz, Deborah Dianne Katz Alsup, and Aaron Jon Katz.
Most of Jon's career was spent working as a research veterinarian for the National Veterinary Services Lab in Ames, Iowa. He retired in 2005 and enjoyed gardening, reading, going for long walks, finding beauty in nature, discussing philosophy with friends, and spending time with his wife.
He is preceded in death by his parents, and his older brother Jeffrey Katz, and is survived by his sister Janet Katz Cass '72, his wife of 48 years, his three children and their spouses, and ten grandchildren.
Though Jon passed on just two days before Thanksgiving, he had written 14 years earlier, "I'm often and extraordinarily grateful for my many good fortunes in life. Thanksgiving comes 100 days a year for me."
Per his wishes, Jon has been cremated and no public services are planned.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Adams Funeral Home and online condolences may be left for Jon's family at www.adamssoderstrum.com. Cards and memorials may be directed to The Family of Jonathan B. Katz, c/o Adams Funeral Home, P.O. Box 745, Ames, Iowa 50010.
Posted online on November 29, 2021
Published in Ames Tribune
To view Online Obituary, Click here.
Alum '67; Parent of Alumna ('00)
Date of passing unknown (2022)Gail D. Wollerton '67
We we have recently learned from classmate, Tim Snyder, that Gail D. Wollerton '67, mother of Amanda [Corby] Clauser '00 has passed. She is remembered fondly by her classmates.
Alum '68, Sibling of Alumni ('71), Child of Alum ('43)
Died on November 9, 2021Cesare Alexander Protto III '68, born in Wilmington DE passed away November 9, 2021.
Cesare is the son of Rosemary and Cesare Protto II '43 and is survived by his sister, Deven Protto Eve '71, his brother-in-law, Gary, their children, Henry and Josephine of Milan, Italy, and his partner, Jacquelyn Keoughan of Wilmington, De.
Cesare spent most of his childhood in Europe where he attended school both at the International School of Milan and at the College St. Jean in Fribourg, Switzerland. When in Milan, he had the great honor of being altar boy to Archbishop Montini (Pope Paul VI). Upon his return to the US, he graduated from Friends School in Hockessin and obtained a B.S. at Northeastern University in Boston.
During his lifetime, Cesare had two great passions, sports and travelling. He was an all-star soccer player in high school. As a member of Wilmington Country Club, he played tournament-level squash for the club. During his holidays from working as a stock exchange trader, he travelled the world and visited many countries on four different continents. Upon retirement, he volunteered his time as an instructor of Italian at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute of the University of Delaware in Wilmington.
Cesare is preceded in death by his grandparents and his parents, his sister, Camilla Georgina, and his son, Philip Michael Alexander. Burial will be private.
A memorial service will be held for Cesare on Sunday, December 5, 2021 from 2:00PM to 6:00PM at the home of Jacqueline Keoughan, 14 Ashton Street, Wilmington, DE 19804.
To send flowers to the family of Cesare Alexander Protto please visit our Tribute Store.
To view Online Obituary, Click here.
Alum '68; Sibling of Alumni ('70, '71*); Child of Alum ('31*)
Died on November 14, 2022Mildred Clarkson Worth (“Lark”) '68, 72, died November 14, 2022 in Kennett Square, PA.
Born in West Chester, PA to the late: Richard Merritt Worth '31 and Sarah Edge Worth of West Chester, PA, Lark was the wife of the late, Fernando Guerrero.
She is survived by her brother, Richard M. Worth, Jr. '70, husband of Mary English Worth, and their children: Thomas and Eliza, all of West Chester, PA; and Richard’s children: Clare Worth, wife of Greg Brown of Bedford, NH, and Daniel Worth, husband of Tekara Worth, and their children: Caroline and Calvin of Exeter, NH.
She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Robert L. Bergman (Bob), nephew, Robert L. Bergman, Jr. (Bo), husband of Megan Mayhew Bergman, and their children: Frasier and Zephyr, all of Shaftsbury Vt.; and her niece, Sarah Bergman-McCool, wife of John Bergman-McCool, and their children: Annabell and Titus, of Woburn, MA.
She is also survived by three of Fernando’s children: Veronica Guerrero-Maciá, and her children: Noel and John McCampbell, of Milton, MA; Jaime Guerrero of San Francisco, CA; and Diana Guerrero-Maciá, wife of Joe Adamik, and their son, Phineas Adamik, of Chicago, IL.
She was preceded in death by her sister Anna E. Worth '71, sister-in-law Elizabeth Shaw Worth, and nephew Ian James Worth.
Lark dedicated her life to helping others and trying to bring light and love to the world. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Delaware; a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin, and a practitioner’s degree from The Barbara Brennan School of Healing. Early in her career she was a social worker in the criminal court system of Delaware and Pennsylvania. This experience led her to dedicate her life to engaging with communities and seeking solutions to the inequities she encountered, especially to support underprivileged children worldwide.
In her later years, Lark focused on helping others love in the face of fear and hate, and heal from within by becoming a certified HeartMath coach and mentor for the HeartMath Institute. She worked closely with longtime friend Rommel Roberts and his wife Robin Roberts in South Africa to support a nonviolent response to the 2019 South African elections; their work continued until Lark’s passing. Their success using the Quaker faith and HeartMath was later used as a case study on averting violence for the United Nations Institute for Training and Research.
She was an active member of the Society of Friends, including with the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, where she served on the board. She was a member of Bradford meeting where she was married, then transferred to Birmingham Friends where she was an active member, before she moved to Kendal at Longwood and eventually served in their meeting as clerk. Lark also served an active, key role in Chester County’s Interfaith Council since the 1990s. In 2010, she helped found ACT in Faith of Greater West Chester, an interfaith nonprofit organization dedicated to supplying physical, financial and spiritual support to those in need. Lark served as the first President of its Board of Directors.
Lark was a life-long learner with many interests. She was a master scuba diver, avid sailor, and gardener. She contributed greatly to the Kendal community and served on multiple boards dedicated to faith, healing and peace. She was a member and Secretary of the Brandywine Bonsai Society through which she developed the art of creating miniature trees. She enjoyed pottery, origami, and photography.
Shortly before her death Lark wrote and published a book based on her personal journey to healing, Heartfully Minding the Light in an Awakening World. (available on Amazon).
A memorial service will be held at Kendal at Longwood, Kennett Square, PA on Saturday, December 10th at 2:00 pm. A private family burial is planned.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Lark’s name to:
HeartMath Institute (https://www.heartmath.org/donations/give/hmi/yea/);
Act in Faith of Greater West Chester (https://www.actinfaithgwc.org/sustaining-partners/);
Birmingham Meeting (https://www.birminghamfriends.org/donate-contact)
The Kendal at Longwood Employees fund.
To view Online Obituary, Click here.
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Bruce A. Rosenblatt '69, age 72 of Portland, OR and Wilmington, DE.
Bruce grew up in Wilmington, with his parents, David Rosenblatt and Doris “Dorry” Rosenblatt, and his sisters Dina and Faith. Bruce was preceded in passing by his father, David (September of 1998), his sister, Dina (April of 2022) and his mother, Dorry(April of 2023).
Bruce attended and graduated from Wilmington Friends School in 1969. He graduated from the University of Delaware in 1973 with a BA in Economics.
Soon after college, Bruce moved to San Francisco, California where he started his IT career working at Gordon & Rees. He spent part of his time there with his sister Faith, who joined him on all sorts of driving trips from Big Sir, to the Russian River, and even wine tasting in Napa Valley. It was in San Francisco where Bruce met his love of 25 years, Marion Koehler. They spent 19 years of their relationship living outside of Portland, where they loved exploring cute beach towns, hiking and taking trips abroad.
Bruce enjoyed baking and spending time with his family and friends. He valued family and community and was always eager to help others. Most importantly, Bruce was known for his true kindness, big heart, and ability to talk so openly to anyone he met.
Obituary provided by Classmate, Barry Snyder '69.
Carol Irwin Williams Mathews '69, aged 68, passed away October 3, 2020 in her home in Williamsburg, VA from COPD. She was born December 6, 1951 in Philadelphia, PA. She was the eldest child of Andrew Addison Williams and Mary Jane "Patsy" Keen Williams. As a child, Carol's family moved multiple times due to her father's work. This introduced her to diverse communities which, along with her Christian-Quaker upbringing, established her ability to be open to anyone and a desire to be of service to others. To be of service to others was a continual life goal. In the 1960s, Carol was an activist for civil rights. Her love of horses led to managing a riding stable and training show horses. From 1969-1973 she attended the College of William and Mary. There she participated in anti-war rallies, worked on the college paper, and manned a suicide hotline. After graduating Carol remained in Williamsburg. Between 1973 and 1983, she became active in the community helping to start the recycling center, the Avalon Women's Shelter, and An Occasion for the Arts. She met Robert Burke "Bob" Mathews and they married May 29, 1976. In 1981, her daughter Melody L Mathews was born. In 1983, Carol and her family took in her widowed mother diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and confined to a wheelchair. From then until her mother's passing, Carol was a caregiver and mother. Her family also cared for her brother Drew on and off for 20 years. She enjoyed participating in the Sweet Adelines, Junior Women's Club, and Daughters of the American Revolution. Through them and Melody's school activities, Girl Scouts, and the Children of the American Revolution she remained active in the community. Carol also enjoyed traveling with these groups and for pleasure. Carol is preceded in death by her father Andrew Addison Williams; mother, Mary Jane "Patsy" Keen Williams; brother, Andrew Addison Williams Jr.; and husband, Robert Burke "Bob" Mathews. She is survived by daughters, Melody L Mathews of Burbank, CA, Carrie Lynn Madeux of Merritt Island, FL, and Tracey Mathews Roberson of Williamsburg, VA; grandsons, Quentin and Graham Roberson of Williamsburg VA; and an aunt and several cousins in Pennsylvania and Arizona. There will be a celebration of life at a later date to be announced by her family. Online condolences may be shared at www.nelsenwilliamsburg.com.
To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Published in Virginia Gazette on Oct. 14, 2020.
MEMORIAL EVENTS: No memorial events are currently scheduled. To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.
Funeral services provided by:
Nelsen Funeral Home - Williamsburg
3785 Strawberry Plains Rd.
Williamsburg, VA 23188
757-565-1141
Click here to visit Online Obituary and Leave Condolences.
Students who attended, but did not matriculate, from Friends (Grad year + ex.). Entries are sorted by Grad Year and Name used while at WFS.
(1960 ex.) Richard Ansel Dobbs. P (Renee Dobbs Biery '88). Passed away on 2/22/21. Click here for online obituary.
(1961 ex.) John M. Martin, Jr. Passed away on 2/27/23. Click here for online obituary.
(1962 ex.) Robert M. Pyle - Passed away on 4/14/25. Click here for online obituary.
(1963 ex.) Benjamin R. Wingate. Passed away on October 14, 2020. Click here for online obituary.
(1965 ex.) Dean C. Bunge. Passed away on 6/11/17. Click here for online obituary.
(1966 ex.) Ned Worth III- Sib (Joan [Worth] Davidson '63 & Bruce Worth '69); Child of Alum (Edward Worth, Jr. '34*dec). Passed away on 10/11/21. Click here for online obituary.
Relationship to WFS School/Alumni: Parents (P), Siblings (Sib), and/or Spouses/Partners (Sp) of our Alumni / Current students / Faculty or Staff Members and Friends of the School (F).
Douglas Barr, P (Doug '68, Sally [Barr] Pardue '71, John '75). Passed away on May 8, 2024. Click here for online obituary.
Marjorie Cann Barr, P (Doug '68, Sally [Barr] Pardue '71, John '75). Passed away on December 14, 2024. Click here for online obituary.
Robert Coady, Sp. (Elisabeth "Lissa" Cook Coady '69). Passed away on 4/3/24. Click here for online obituary.
Paul Barber Courtright, Sp. (Peggy Crosby Courtright '68). Passed away on 12/9/2024. Click here for online obituary.
Rose Carroll Lawrence Dale, P (Terry Lawrence '62*, Bill Lawrence '66). Passed away on 10/17/22. Click here for online obituary.
Orelia Sparrow Dann, Sp (John C. Dann '62). Passed away on 9/17/22. Click here for online obituary.
Peter Dodge, Sp (Amey [Eckler] Dodge '62). Passed away on 9/17/22. Click here for online obituary.
Josephine "Effie" Taylor Ellis, Sp. (M. Nixon Ellis '68). Passed away on 2/18/23. Click here for online obituary.
Paul Graybeal, P (Carolyn '69 and David '70). Passed away on 4/14/2000. Click here for online obituary.
Hermetta Harper, Sp (Richard “Dick” Harper '60); P ('86, '88, '91 & '91); and GP ( '15, '18). Passed away on 4/24/20. Click here for online obituary.
Richard E. Jensen, Sp. (Sara Miller '63). Passed away on 4/4/22. Click here for online obituary.
Susan [McGovern] Herndon, Sib. (Edward McGovern '61); Step-Sib. (H. Richard Gaumer '60*dec.). Passed away on 12/21/21. Click here for online obituary.
Richard E. Jensen, Sp. (Sara Miller '63). Passed away on 4/4/22. Click here for online obituary.
Meredith Potter Lindley, Sp (John Lindley '62). Passed away on July 30, 2020. Click here for online obituary.
Robert "Bob" Burke Mathews, Sp (Carol Irwin Williams Mathews '69). Passed away on May 24, 2020. Click here for online obituary.
Lewis Stat, P (Daniel Statnekov '61, Richard Stat '67); GP (Michael Stat '99). Passed away on 11/15/18. Click here for online obituary.
Mildred Kassvan Stat, P (Daniel Statnekov '61, Richard Stat '67); GP (Michael Stat '99). Passed away on 5/27/22. Click here for online obituary.
Jean Wilson Stockfleth, P (Carl Stockfleth '65, Alice Stockfleth Hayward '71). Passed away on 11/14/21. Click here for online obituary.
Robert D. Ullrich, P (Robert Ullrich '66, Patricia Ullrich '69). Passed away on 12/16/22. Click here for online obituary.
Carolyn R. Weber '53, Sibling (Arthur Weber '56, Margaret Weber Makar '61, Daniel Weber '70). Passed away on October 25, 2021. Click here for online obituary.
