Leroy "Wilmer" Hitchens

Leroy “Wilmer” Hitchens, 91, of Milford, passed away on September 28, 2025, at home with his family. Born on August 29, 1934, to the late Ollie and Laura Hitchens in Bishopville, Maryland.

At the age of nineteen he joined the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Japan for three years after finishing basic training, then returned to the United States and was stationed at Charleston, South Carolina Air Force Base for eight years. He was then stationed at Wilmington Airport as an Advisor to Delaware’s Air National Guard. His final duty was flying large transport planes from Dover Air Force Base which completed his twenty years of active service.

Never one to sit still long, he began a twenty year career at United Parcel Service which led to lasting friendships, entertaining stories, being known as pop-pop and most of all being outside where he could socialize.

In his retirement he enjoyed having breakfast with friends at Westside, the Milford Diner and gatherings with his fellow UPS friends. His biggest pleasure was spending time with his family, which included the love of his life. He enjoyed teasing, spoiling and telling stories to his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He and Shirley enjoyed traveling with friends and going to Myrtle Beach every year.

Leroy was preceded in death by his daughter Pamela Hitchens Ehrisman, brothers, Oliver Hitchens, Casher Hitchens, Darrell (Boogie) Hitchens, Donald Hitchens and Ollie Hitchens, Jr., and a sister, Dorothy Warren.

Leroy is survived by his wife Shirley Griffin Hitchens of sixty seven years, his daughter LuAnn Baker (Billy), his grandchildren, Erin Cordrey (Tyler) and Riley Baker, great grandchildren, Madelyn and Luke Cordrey, brothers, Billy Hitchens (Grace), James Hitchens and Richard Hitchens (Pam), sister, Mabel (Marie) Savage and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

With great appreciation, the family wishes to thank Brianna, Hannah and Kara of Delaware Hospice for their great care and compassion during this difficult time. Special thanks goes to wonderful neighbors, friends, and Pastor Andy Stevens.

The family will receive visitors at Rogers Hovatter Funeral Home from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2025, with a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. Interment will be at Milford Community Cemetery with Military Honors.