Edward Allen Needles, 85

    Edward Allen Needles of Felton, DE passed away at home surrounded by the family he loved dearly, on Thursday, April 17, 2025 Allen was born in Ridgley, MD to the late, Francis “Lowell” and Sallie C. Needles, and grew up on a farm 8 miles from Harrington.
    Allen served his country proudly in the United States Navy, where he retired after 25 years of service, and served aboard the USS Forrestal, the first carrier designed specifically for jet aircraft. He was an AECS, Aviation Electrician’s Mate Senior Chief Petty Officer. Prior to joining the Navy, he was enlisted in the U.S. Marines Reserves.
    Allen loved to work and was a hard worker all his life. In his spare time, he did enjoy reading, especially about history and science. As a youngster, he did enjoy farming on the family farm. He could fix just about anything. He will be remembered as a great husband, loving dad, and wonderful brother and grandfather. He was protective of his family although he was known to tease his sisters a lot. His jovial manner and presence will forever be missed.
    He is survived by his loving wife, Marjorie Needles, children, Catherine (Kevin) Rowe, Michael (Melanie) Needles, Thomas (Britni) Needles; sisters, Kaye Sapp, Faye Parrott; grandchildren, Kylee Gray, Rachel Jarvis, Kimberly Jarvis, Kailey Needles, Brendan Needles; great grandchildren, Johnathan Gray, Ashlyn Gray, and Aurora Hayes.
    A Celebration of Life Service for Allen took place at the Melvin Funeral Home, 15522 South DuPont Hwy., Harrington, on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 1 PM with a visitation for family and friends one hour prior starting at 12 Noon. Interment with Navy Honors took place at the Hollywood Cemetery, Harrington immediately after the service.
    Arrangements were entrusted to Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home, to leave condolences, please visit www.melvinfuneralhome.com