William Randolph 'Bill' Elias, 89

DOVER - William Randolph "Bill" Elias was called to rest Saturday, Jan. 19, 2008, in Capitol Nursing Home in Dover. He was 89.

He was born to the late Stacy Bright and William E. Elias on Dec. 15, 1918.

He was raised by his loving grandparents, affectionately known as Mom Bertie and Daddy Ran.

William received his early education at Joshua Chapel in Morgnec, Md.

In 1938 he moved to Wilmington, where he was employed by the Dupont family as a domestic worker.

William was later employed at Johnson's Pharmacy in Wilmington.

He attended church regularly and in his later years received Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour.

William was a true sportsman, enjoying hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed growing vegetables in his garden that he kept until his health no longer permitted him to.

In 2002, he became a resident at Capitol Health Nursing and Rehabilitation in Dover, where he received excellent care.

William was preceded in death by one brother, Francis Nailer.

He leaves to cherish fond memories, one son, Lonnie Elias Sr. and daughter-in-law, Sheila Elias, both of Dover; two grandchildren, Lonnie Elias Jr. of Upper Malboro, Md. and Latoniah Johnson of Dover; four great-grandchildren, Tamiya, Sheila, Tionah and Randy Jr., all of Dover; one nephew, Andrew "Genie" Hackeh of Chestertown, Md.; a special cousin, Solistine Briscoe of Fairlee, Md; and close friends, Mr. Lawrence and Mary Torrence of Wilmington.

He will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends.

Services will be 1 p.m. Saturday in Emanuel United Methodist Church, Chestertown, Md., where friends may view two hours prior.

Burial will be in Emanuel United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Arrangements by Bennie Smith Funeral Home, Dover.