Gilbert Emory Hutchins

A lifelong Dover resident Gilbert Hutchins 98, died peacefully in Dover at BayHealth after a long illness on Tuesday Feb. 4, 2025. He was born on Nov. 3, 1926, on farmland which is now Dover AFB. He was the youngest of five brothers and two sisters born to Emmitt and Florence Hutchins. He grew up in west Dover and attended Rose Valley Elementary, a one-room schoolhouse. Mr. Hutchins graduated from Dover High School in June 1944 and soon after enlisted in the US Navy. During WWII he served in a supply detachment in Okinawa. After the war, his ship was assigned to Tsingtao, China to train the Chinese under the Lend/Lease Act. While there he met his older brother whose ship was also docked there. He felt it was a God-appointed blessing. After being discharged he returned to Dover where he met his wife of 75 years. Mr. Hutchins delivered milk for Diamond State Dairies (1947-1963). After home delivery was abandoned in the 1960’s, Mr. Hutchins continued serving the public as a letter carrier for the Dover Post Office. He retired in 1990 after walking his mail route in Edgehill. He felt it was the best job he ever had since he loved to meet people. Mr. Hutchins married Gladys May Rash of Magnolia on May 29, 1949. Together they raised a son and two daughters. He was a devout Christian and a lifelong member of First Baptist Church in Dover (1936-2025). He served in many capacities and made everyone feel welcome, especially new visitors. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed fishing and hunting small game. Mr. Hutchins and his wife traveled and camped spending winters in Florida. They especially enjoyed attending Gospel Music concerts. Mr. Hutchins was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters. He is survived by his wife, Gladys May Rash Hutchins, son Roger Hutchins of Dover, daughters Karen Chabot and husband Gregory of Felton and Susan Morris and husband Dr. Russell Morris of Pasadena, Texas. In addition, he is survived by 9 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild as well as many nieces and nephews. Services will be held at First Baptist Church on Friday Feb 14 at 11:00am. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. The retired Reverend Dan Taylor will officiate the service. Burial will be at Lakeside Cemetery, Dover. In lieu of flowers the family suggests a memorial contribution to First Baptist Church, 301 Walker Road, Dover 19904. Arrangements by Trader Funeral Home, Dover.

Gilbert Emory Hutchins

November 3, 1926 - February 4, 2025