Samuel Devereaux Hathaway

Samuel Devereaux Hathaway, 60, of Shippensburg, died Saturday, June 18, 2005.

Born April 15, 1945, in Norfolk,Va., he was the son of Samuel and Louisa Hathaway.

He had been a professor of English at Shippensburg University since 1993 and served for three years as the chair of the English department. He was the author of numerous essays and short stories, including the collections "The Widow's Boy" and "Skylarking on Honeysuckle Road." He taught courses in creative writing and literature and was known by both his students and colleagues for his passion and dedication to his profession.

From childhood, Dev had an abiding fascination with the natural world. Friends marveled at his understanding of animals of every kind and how they seemed to be as comfortable with him and he was with them. He was also an enthusiastic gardener with an extensive collection of day-lilies, his favorite flower.

In addition to environmental concerns, he was devoted to all causes in support of human rights and world peace. He was a man of uncommon grace, compassion, kindness, and good humor – even in his last illness – and he will be sorely missed by his family and his many friends.

In addition to his parents, Dev is survived by his wife of 21years, Martha Wickelhaus; his beloved children, Marie, Sam, and Richard; and his sister, Kate. He was predeceased by his brother, Bill.

A memorial service will be held in the Old Main Chapel, Shippensburg University, on Saturday, Aug. 6, at 3 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Dev Hathaway Memorial English Scholarship Fund, c/o the Shippensburg University Foundation, 1871 Old Main Drive, Shippensburg, Pennsylvania 17257.

The Egger Funeral Home Inc., Newville, is handing funeral arrangements.