William Alvin Haines, 55 SLAUGHTER BEACH - William Alvin Haines, age 55, of Slaughter Beach, passed away Monday, Jan. 11, 2010, in his home surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born in Wilmington, son of the late Hayward and Charlotte (Johnson) Haines. He was raised on a dairy farm in Bear and spent his summers at a family cottage built by his father at Slaughter Beach. After moving to Milford in 1983 he started work as a painter at Beebe Medical Center where he worked for the past 25 years. In 1997 the family moved to the Slaughter Beach cottage. He was a member of Avenue U.M. Church in Milford. Bill loved to fish and could frequently be found on his boat in the Delaware Bay. He also spent his time tending his large garden and playing with his grandchildren. He will be remembered for his compassionate spirit, always quick to lend a hand to anyone in need. In addition to his parents, a brother, Bishop Ronald Haines, preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Donna (Cannon) Haines; two sons and daughters-in-law, Billy and Laura Haines of Newark, and Mathew J. and Jennifer Haines of Milford; two grandchildren, Benjamin Caden Haines, and Elizabeth Joy Haines; and a brother and sister-in-law, Lonnie and Sally Haines, also of Milford. A memorial service will be 2 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 14, at Avenue U.M. Church, 20 N. Church Street, Milford. Arrangements handled by Berry-Short Funeral Home, Milford. In lieu of flowers, contributions in William's memory can be made to the church.