Celebrate your loved one’s life in a way that’s as independent as they were – in the Daily State News and BayTobayNews.com. Share fond memories, photos and information on celebrations of life using our easy, step-by-step process.
Alexander J. Deusa Sr., of Felton, Delaware, passed away Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the Delaware Veterans Home in Milford.
He was born July 11, 1925, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to the late Joseph Deusa and Violet Richards Deusa.
Mr. Deusa grew up on the family farm in Mt. Zion, Maryland. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and was honorably discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant. A World War II veteran, he participated in the Storming of the Beaches of Normandy as well as the Battle of the Bulge. He was a recipient of the Purple Heart for his service and sacrifice. Following his military service, Mr. Deusa returned to Marydel, MD where he worked on the family farm and drove trucks before beginning a career as a drywall finisher and painter. He was employed at Bayhealth Kent General Hospital in Dover, Delaware for 15 years. Even after retiring, his strong work ethic led him back to the hospital as a subcontractor. Faith was the cornerstone of Mr. Deusa’s life. He was a devoted member of The Cross Church of the Nazarene in Dover DE. Prior to that he was a devoted and admired Sunday school teacher at Sandtown Church of the Nazarene. He also shared his musical talent as a skilled harmonica player, bringing joy to those around him.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings Filomena, Joseph, Fred, Rose, and Tom. His wife of 28 years Marilyn, and wife of 10 years Colleen. Also, he was preceded in death by his children, Joy Deusa, Sally Ann Deusa, Edward Deusa, Michael Deusa, Peggy Nearhos, Tish Aurillo and stepdaughter Peggy Pike. Also, grandsons Derrick and Christian.
He is survived by his sister Margaret Owen of Dover DE, his children Alexander J. Deusa Jr. of Laurel, DE, Kenneth (Ken) Deusa (Darlene) of Hastings, FL, and Joyce Hill (Mitch) of Felton, DE, his grandchildren Eddie, Tom, Dawn, Bernice, Andy, Michael, Alex, Shay, Stacey, Mike, Bob, Chris, Tyler, Nick, Brenda, Desiree, and Audrey. As well as 21 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Monday, January 12, 2026. Visitation 10:30am followed by service at 11:30am, at Torbert Funeral Chapel, 1145 E. Lebanon Road, Dover, Delaware.
Interment will be held at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro, Delaware at 2:00pm.
Instead of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to The Cross Church of the Nazarene, 1818 N. Little Creek Road, Dover, Delaware, 19901, (302)734-4202.
Letters of condolence may be sent, and guestbook signed at www.torbertfuneral.com
