MILFORD - John O. Carothers, 81, of Milford, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 20, 2016 in Country Rest Home, Greenwood, surrounded by his loving family. John was born in Paulsboro, N.J. the son of the late John William Carothers I and Anna (McDermott) Carothers Cox. He served in the U.S. Navy on an escort ship during the Korean War. He was the Vice President of Nanticoke Memorial Hospital for several years before retiring. John was a member of the Seaford Rotary and is past Governor of District 7630 serving from 1998 to 1999. He was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow as well as a Foundation Benefactor of Rotary International. He was a Mason and member of the Ellendale Ruritan Club, where he was recognized as Ellendale Ruritan Member of the Year. John was also involved for many years in a community mentoring program with his son John W. II. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Robert Carothers; two grandchildren, Brian Carothers and Phillip Wilkins; his stepfather, Francis Cox; a step daughter, Sandy; his sister, Barbara; and brother, Thomas Cox; as well as his prior wives, Louise and Elsie. He is survived by his wife, Leona Steen Carothers; nine children, Kathleen, John Oliver, Jr. (JoAnn), Ronald (Annette), Dawn (Dan), Kolleen (Art), Marie (Ed), Michael (Patricia), John W. II (Malinda), Robert Konkiel; his first wife Doris, 14 grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, three nieces, two nephews as well as many step children. A viewing will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 25, 2016 at the Lofland Funeral Home, 102 Lakeview Avenue, Milford where funeral services will be held at 12:30 p.m. Burial will be in Henlopen Memorial Park, Rt. Milton. In lieu of flowers the family suggests that contributions in John's name be made to your favorite charity. Letters of condolence may be sent and shared at www.loflandandmcknatt.com.