William F. Prettyman

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William Francis Prettyman, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, great grandfather and dedicated public servant, on August 31 at the age of 82.
Born on August 19,1943 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Bill was a man known for his integrity, kindness, and unwavering sense of duty. He worked at DuPont Chambers Works for 11 years as a lab technician. For 21 years, he proudly served his community as a member of the New Castle County Police Department, earning the respect of his colleagues and impacting countless families whose lives he touched. His steady presence and strong moral compass made him not only a trusted officer, but also a true example of what it means to be a stand-up man. Bill worked in the Criminal Investigations Unit as a Fraud Detective and received specialized training in administering polygraphs for the department. After retiring from the County Police in 1994, Bill went to work for the Public Defenders Office and then the Attorney General's office as an investigator.
Outside of his uniform, Bill was most proud of the life he built with his beloved wife, Mildred. Together they shared 61 wonderful years of marriage, built on love, laughter, and partnership. As a father, he poured his heart into his three daughters, teaching them through both words and actions the importance of honesty, compassion, and perseverance. He set the bar high as a father and husband.
One of his greatest joys in life was being a grandfather. Bill cherished every moment with his eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, delighting in their laughter, milestones, and the love they brought into his life. On the weekends Bill loved watching his grandkids play sports and was either cheering behind home plate for baseball or softball, in the bleachers for volleyball or at the pool for a swim meet. He traveled near and far to watch his grandkids play and always provided words of encouragement and support.
Those who knew Bill will remember his gentle spirit, his dry sense of humor, and his willingness to always lend a helping hand. Whether on duty or at home, he carried himself with humility and honor, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and respect.
He is survived by his wife, Mildred Prettyman, his children, Susan Nowell married to A.J. Nowell, Lisa Prettyman married to Brian Nuss and Melissa Lang married to Steve Lang, his beloved grandchildren, Alexis Taylor, Emily Karpin, Brett Nowell, Kala Novak, Demi Nuss, Mackenzie Prettyman, Matt and Ellie Lang. He was preceded in death by Robert and Margaret Prettyman and his two brothers and three sisters.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 5th at St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church, 2431 Fraser Road, Newark, Delaware with visitation beginning at 10am-12pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church in Bill's memory.