Richard Elmer Piper, 65

ELLENDALE - Richard Elmer Piper of Ellendale departed this life suddenly Monday, July 30, 2007, in his home. He was 65.

Richard was born Sept. 2, 1941, in Broadkill Milton, the second of 12 children born to the late Herman D. Sr. and Frances M. (Burton) Piper.

He received his education at Milton School 196-C and William C. Jason School.

Richard was a very hard worker and a jack of all trades. He took on many jobs before utilizing his entrepreneur skills. He started his own business in the 1970s, Piper Mobile Home Park in Ellendale, which he operated until his death.

He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, and looked forward to family gatherings.

Mr. Piper always had something humorous to tell you. He was easy going and free-spirited. To know him was to love him.

He loved listening to gospel music, and watching cartoons, Westerns and wrestling.

Mr. Piper was always willing to do what was asked of him and would go out of the way to help anyone.

Throughout his illness and even until his death, he never murmured or complained, and instead thanked the Lord daily with a big smile on his face.

Mr. Piper was a great man of faith. While exercising his strong faith in the Lord, he accepted Christ in March 1999.

During this Christian journey he attended various churches, and was most recently attending Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses in Georgetown.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Piper was preceded in death by three brothers, Russell, Alfred and Herman Jr.; and a sister, Mary Ann Piper.

He leaves to cherish his memories two sons, Irvin W. Wright (Priscilla) of Milford, and David Piper of Dover; five brothers, David H. Piper (Ardith) and Arthur J. Piper (Elvenlene), all of Ellendale, Samuel M. Piper of Milford, Noah T. Piper (Eunice) of Milton, and Paul E. Piper of Bridgeville; two sisters, Martha M. Piper of Ellendale, and Esther M. Piper-Soto of Dover; three grandchildren, Sherita, Katrina and Justin; one aunt, Roberta Burton of Milton; two special and devoted nieces, Darlene R. Piper of Dover, and Francine Y. Piper of Milton; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; and a devoted friend, Robin Nichols and family of Ellendale.

A viewing will be 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Bennie Smith Funeral Home in Milford, and a final viewing to be from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church in Ellendale, followed by the funeral at noon.

Burial will be in Henlopen Memorial Park, Lewes.