J. Edward Givens, 73

BETHEL - J. Edward Givens, passed away Wednesday, June 17, 2009, in John Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore. He was 73. He was born in Bethel, a son of the late Andrew C. and Viola Allen Givens. Mr. Givens founded the AC Givens and Sons Company in 1955, which he owned and operated until his death. He was a lifelong member of Sailors Bethel United Methodist in Bethel, where he served as a past president of the trustees. Ed was a 20 year member of the Laurel Lions Club and the Laurel Civic Club. He was a family man, who enjoyed his granddaughters softball games and proud of his grandsons' work ethic. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Charlotte Givens of Bethel; his daughters, Brenda Lee Givens of Bethel, and Deborah Ann O'neal and her husband Doug of Seaford; his grandchildren, Alan O'Neal and Maranda O'Neal; a niece and two nephews; and a lifelong companion, "Rocky", his faithful dog. A Funeral Service will be 2 p.m. Monday, June 22, 2009 at the Sailors Bethel United Methodist Church, Main Street, Bethel, where a viewing will be from 12 to 2 p.m. Interment will follow in Bethel Community Cemetery. The Rev. Art Smith will officiate. Memorial contributions can be made in his honor to Sailors Bethel United Methodist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 187, Bethel, DE 19931. Arrangements are in the care of the Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home, Laurel.