Delores graduated from Springfield High School in 1954. She attended Anderson College, Anderson, Indiana for one year and returned to Springfield to be married August, 1955. After her youngest child began school, Delores enrolled at Wittenberg University, Springfield, Ohio, and graduated in 1969 with an Elementary Education teaching degree. She began her teaching career at Plattsburgh Elementary from 1969-70, then Catawba Elementary from 1970-71, and Possum Elementary from 1971-1983. She and Jim moved to Lake Wales in 1983 where Delores continued teaching at Hillcrest Elementary until her retirement in 1998. She began working as a paraprofessional at Polk Avenue Elementary until 2011. She continued volunteering at the school until May 2018.

Delores’ love and support for her family never wavered. She was the “gentle rock” whose wisdom and wit were often expressed by her favorite phrase, “make haste slowly.” Having her grown children around her talking and reminiscing on special occasions always filled her with joy. Coming to worship at High Point was the highlight of her week. She enjoyed being involved in church life serving diligently wherever needed. She was the happiest when she was in school teaching surrounded by children. She was a voracious reader and frequent visitor to the Lake Wales Library. Above all, she loved unconditionally and believed only the best in everyone.

A memorial celebration is planned for Tuesday, December 4 at 6:00 pm at High Point Church in Lake Wales, Florida. A graveside service and burial is planned for Saturday, December 15 at McConkey Cemetery in Catawba, Ohio.

Memorial gifts to honor Delores can be made to High Point Church and Polk Avenue Elementary in Lake Wales, Florida.

Arrangements are being coordinated by Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales, Florida and Jackson Lytle and Lewis Life Celebration Center in Springfield, Ohio.