WILLIAM MCCAFFERTY

William G.

McCafferty

Age 85, of Rehoboth Beach, DE passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on March 8, 1924 in Marcus Hook, PA, son of the late W. Harlan McCafferty and Margaret Morgan McCafferty. Mr. McCafferty attended the University of Pennsylvania, but his love for music won out. He learned to master the bass and started out by playing with each of the Four Aces. His group "Bill Gray's Quintet" traveled through PA, Atlantic City and Canada. He also had played over the years at the Pink Pony, Lou Ianire's and the DeBraak. Bill settled down to live and work in West Chester, PA. A call from a fellow musician brought him to Delaware and after several interviews, jobs were offered in Rehoboth and Lewes for the season. Unfortunately, in those days, the beach season ended on Labor Day. Having a family to support, Bill applied at Sussex Correctional Institution and was hired. This job was for several years and he only played on weekends. Not satisfied with his life, Bill contacted Snelling & Snelling in Wilmington and was put in touch with Blue Cross. Ed Dugan hired him in 1966 as the only sales rep. in Sussex County (which also included all School Districts) and he worked out of the Milford Office. In 1975, the job of Labor Account Coordinator was available and Bill moved up. He thoroughly enjoyed the challenge and because of his rapport, was well-liked by union members and Fund Administrators. In August of 1977, Bill became the Blue Cross Blue Shield coordinator for the State of Delaware. In addition, he handled the Farm Bureau and Kent County employees. Having a thorough knowledge of the "Blues" downstate, the Labor Groups, Farm Bureau and the State of Delaware, Blue Cross offered the position as lobbyist, which was happily accepted. Mr. McCafferty was an avid Phillies and Eagles fan and an avid golfer.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years Gisela Tiede McCafferty. They were married on July 19, 1969 and sat up all night to watch the first moon walk, "Ain't that a heck of a way to start a honeymoon" he said. Also surviving is one son William McCafferty and wife Denise of Georgetown, DE and three daughters Lisa Jefferson and husband G.L. of Greenwood, DE, Barbara Roe and Kim Dewey and husband Kevin both of Seaford, DE., 8 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 16, 2010 at 3 PM at the PARSELL FUNERAL HOMES & CREMATORIUM, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE where friends may call one hour prior to services. Burial will be private at Epworth Methodist Cemetery, Rehoboth Beach, DE. In lieu of flowers contributions are suggested to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.

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