John Archer Delaney Sr.

John Archer Delaney Sr. peacefully departed this earthly life in the comfort of his home on November 30, 2025, surrounded by family. John was born on September 15, 1942, to the late Mary Virginia and Frank Delaney Sr. in Williamsburg, VA.

John, affectionately known as "Skipper", was educated at Bruton Heights School in Williamsburg, VA. Skipper later advanced his career at the Naval Weapons Station (Yorktown), where he was recognized for his dedication and strong work ethic, earning multiple awards, including perfect attendance. Skipper retired in 1996 as a Missile Inspector after 30 years of Federal Service at the early age of 54!

Skipper knew his Savior and joined Chickahominy Baptist Church at an early age. He loved golf and was an avid golfer for many years. Skipper was very good with his hands and was able to fix just about anything, including cars. If he wasn't working on his beautiful lawn or fixing something around the house, you could find him on the golf course at either Newport News Park or Fort Eustis. Skipper also loved to play cards and was always up for a good game of bid whist, spades, and even solitaire.

Skipper enjoyed a good meal; give him a fried pork chop and he was your friend. He especially loved sweets, with his favorites being pound cake and a good rice pudding. He was a laid-back, easygoing, mild-mannered man; however, he would give you the hard, honest truth when you needed it, in the most affectionate way possible. He loved his family and was loved by all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.

John is preceded in death by his father Frank A. Delaney, Sr.; mother Mary Virginia Delaney; loving wife Elsie Loretta Delaney; his siblings, Jean Wallace, Leroy Delaney, Mary Smallwood, Ronald Delaney, Debora Delaney, George Delaney, and Charles Delaney.

To cherish his memory, John is survived by four children, Paulette Arrington (Tommy) of Hampton, VA, John Delaney Jr., of Newport News, VA, Anissa Collins (Noel) of Bowie, MD, and his baby girl Genee Delaney of Williamsburg, VA; siblings, Frank Delaney Jr. (Alice), Louise Smith, Deloristeen Delaney, Gerald Delaney, Cathy Delaney, and Michael Delaney (Lynn); grandson Jared Delaney whom he shared a special bond with that was like a son; eight additional grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren; three great great grandkids; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to dear friends, Mr. David Doyal and Ms. Mildred Jefferson, and the caring staff at Riverside Doctors' Hospital.

A service to celebrate John's life will be held at Noon, Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Whiting's Funeral Home, with a viewing beginning at 11:00 a.m. A private interment will be held later at the request of the family.

Professional services entrusted to the staff of Whiting's Funeral Home, 7005 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg. Virginia 23185. 757-229-3011 whitingsfuneralhome.com