We lost Hazel Brittingham this week. Hazel can be described as nothing less than the matriarch of Lewes. Her steady guidance in preserving our history and culture will benefit our community for generations.
My wife Ruby and I were among the earliest members of the Delaware Maritime Hall of Fame. Bonnie Dougherty and Ann Hilaman asked us to join their efforts to create the Delaware Maritime Hall of Fame, which Ruby established. It was with great delight we met Hazel. She was a wealth of information and was always available with steady guidance, encouragement and a gold mine of Lewes history. Hazel was inducted into the Delaware Maritime Hall of Fame during Ruby's tenure as chairwoman. Hazel is memorialized on the granite monument at the Lewes Canalfront Park along with many other notable inductees.
Hazel cautioned us to preserve our Lewes history for the benefit of generations to come. She reminded me that the preservation of our legacy, culture and lifestyle inherent in eastern Sussex County far outweighed the degradation of our city and the surrounding area, and it could only be achieved by preserving the legacy our forefathers bestowed upon us.
Hazel's family was part of the famed Lewes Dairy company, and she devoted her life to many historical organizations. Her devotion to Christ and Groome United Methodist Church was first and foremost in her life. Her commitment to family and community flowed from this devotion.
I ask that you take a moment to reflect upon Hazel Downs Brittingham’s life and achievements, and be forever guided by her wisdom and grace. Her work will live on for generations to come.
We will always smile broadly and sing with a little more spirit as we remember her singing “God Bless America.”
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