Anne Baker Ritchey

Anne Baker Ritchey died in West Chester on March 11, 2025. She was 76.

She is survived by Steven Ritchey, her husband of 54 years. Other survivors include her siblings, Mary Lou (Daniel) Jay of Timonium, Md., William of Kennett Square, Timothy (Eileen) Baker of Rehoboth Beach, Del., and sister-in-law Teri DeGross of Wilsonville, OR.  Also surviving are 11 nieces and nephews, Rebecca Robley, Katharine and Emily Jay, Shannon Lopez, Max Baker, Michael Baker, Molly Greco, Douglas and Robert DeGross, and great nieces Avery and Madeline DeGross.

She was predeceased by her brother, Michael (Laurie). 

Although she was named Marguerite Anne after her mother, Anne always went by her middle name—“Anne with an E” —just like the heroine in her beloved “Anne of Green Gables” books. She sometimes used “Wythany” as an online name.

As a child, Anne lived in Cleveland, OH, and in Stratford, CT, before the family moved to Newark, Del. when she was in 7th grade. She went to high school at Ursuline Academy in Wilmington, and then studied at the College of New Rochelle for a year before transferring to the University of Delaware. She graduated with a degree in English and spent her career as a writer and editor. Her first job was with UD’s publications office.

Anne met Steve while taking an investment class in 1969. They were married in 1970, forming a loving, lifelong partnership that withstood many challenges.

Since Anne was a cat lover, they also enjoyed the company of cats for many of those years.

From 1970 to 1972, Anne and Steve lived in Clark, NJ, where Anne worked for Middlesex Community College. From 1972 to 1974, when they lived in Wilmington, she was director of communications for the University of Delaware’s College of Marine Studies. It was during her years at Marine Studies that Anne developed a special love and appreciation for the Delaware seashore.

From 1974 to 1983, Anne and Steve lived in Charleston, WV, which Anne loved. She worked for the Bell System of West Virginia and became an active volunteer with United Way. After moving to West Chester, Anne continued to work for the Bell System in Pennsylvania before leaving to establish her own firm, Ritchey Communications, in 1986. She retired in 1999.

Anne was involved and influential in the lives of her nieces and nephews. Even though she didn't have children of her own, she was always the “cool aunt” who took time and effort to make memorable life experiences for them: weeks at her house while attending summer day camps, travel to interesting locations, and trips to New York City to see the sights and enjoy a Broadway play. Anne and Steve also helped educate them in the basics of financial literacy and investing.

Anne had an artistic flair which was evident in the décor in her home and beach house. She enjoyed a variety of crafts, becoming proficient at calligraphy and quilling. She had a special love for glass bead-making, an interest she pursued for decades by taking classes at venues like Snow Farm in New England. She liked attending musical theater, both on Broadway and at local theaters.

She liked to travel – a month-long trip to Paris was an especially favorite memory – and especially enjoyed the educational and travel trips sponsored by what is now Road Scholar. She had fun playing slots at Delaware Park and other area casinos, and during her trips to Atlantic City.

As an information junkie, Anne welcomed the advent of the internet and became a moderator for the America community for Prodigy, one of the first online services. She was an excellent online researcher, finding information and resources for anyone who needed her help. Anne was an avid reader and especially liked mysteries.

Steve and Anne’s beach house in Dewey Beach was the site of many happy gatherings with family and friends, including a wonderful belated celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary in 2022. 

As an oldest child, Anne was strong, independent and caring. She was always ready to help out whenever and wherever needed. She will be remembered and missed for her generosity and for the love she constantly shared with her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Anne’s memory can be made to Longwood Gardens (https://longwoodgardens.org/support/honor-and-memorial-gifts), which she and Steve enjoyed visiting many times each year.

Arrangements are being handled by Kuzo Funeral Home of Kennett Square. 

George Michael McBride

George Michael McBride, known affectionately as Mike, passed away peacefully at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Del. on March 14, 2025. He was a 79-year-old resident of Hockessin, Del.

Mike graduated from Lakewood High School in Lakewood, NJ. Always dressed in his signature baseball cap, Mike was known for his genuine kindness, warmth, humor, and quick wit. He enjoyed softball, darts, fishing, and boating. He was a fan of the Philadelphia Phillies, and he was an avid fan of The Eagles—both the band and the football team. He especially enjoyed spending time with family at the Delaware and Maryland beaches, which were places where some of his most peaceful moments and genuine smiles were captured.

Mike served as a member of the U.S. Army National Guard Reserves, and he worked for James Julian and Greggo & Ferrara Companies. For close to 20 years, Mike served as President of the United Steelworkers of America Local Union 15253, before fully retiring in 2020.

Born in West Chester, Mike is survived by his mother, Lillian McBride Robins; his partner of 37 years, Linda Ruggieri; his oldest son, Jason McBride and his wife, Ryan, and grandchildren, Wyeth, Channing, and Talbot; his youngest son, Dr. Nicholas McBride and husband, Dr. Bradley Johnson, and granddaughter, Claire Lillian. Mike was a devoted and loving partner, son, father, grandfather, and friend to many.

Services were held on March 21 at Kuzo Funeral Home in Kennett Square. Burial will be private.

Arrangements are being handled by Kuzo Funeral Home of Kennett Square.

Sandra L Stuart

Sandra L. Stuart, a resident of Oxford, passed away on March 8, 2025 while at home. She was 80.

Born in West Chester, she was the daughter of the late William and Margaret Raisen Embick.

She was employed as a resident manager for Devereux Advanced Behavior Health in Villanova, Pa. 

She loved her Lord and Savior, family and friends. She enjoyed entertaining, cooking and gardening. 

She was survived by two children, Trent Stuart of Colorado (Jen) and Marilyn Wardle of Tarpan Springs, Fla., three grandchildren, Janelle Weesner (Justin), Joseph Gumpper (Kirsten) and Grace Wardle, and five great-grandchildren, Laila, Damien, Elijah, Wyatt and Raegan.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Billy and two sisters, Annie and Carol.

Services will be private.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. (www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com) in Oxford.

Walter Bradley Allen

Walter Bradley “Brad” Allen, of Kennett Square, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2025. He was 82.

Brad worked as an insurance broker for almost 60 years and he was the president of his own firm, Allen Insurance Group. Brad was a true innovator in the world of insurance and, more particularly, employee benefits. He championed unique employee benefit programs for small and medium-sized businesses alike. His long-standing commitments and partnerships with the Chambers of Commerce throughout Delaware were shining examples of his loyalties to the community. Above all, his nearly career-long partnership with the New Castle County Chamber of Commerce set him apart as one of the most renowned and respected insurance professionals in the state.

Brad was a member of the Army National Guard and was a devout and proud patriot, and could oftentimes be heard declaring his patriotism by spontaneously exclaiming “God Bless America” whenever he was inspired to do so. To say that Brad was a “family man” could not be more of an understatement. He lived and breathed for his family in everything he did each and every day. Brad was not only the patriarch of the family, but also entertaining with his sense of humor and countless embarrassing, yet hysterical, moments.

Brad had many hobbies and interests in his life including travel, boating, and golf. He was fond of Corvettes and especially his 1967 Stingray— “His Baby.” His favorite places on earth were Avalon, NJ, and St. John, USVI. We will always hear the echoes of “God Bless America” off the back decks and reverberating over the water. Being on his boat and out on the water was another passion of his. His boat was a place of solitude, peace, tranquility and many, many naps. Brad also had a great affinity for dogs, especially his yellow lab, Piper. He will be missed for his kindness, generosity, and unfaltering sense of humor.

Born in Wilmington, Del., he was a son of S. Burton Allen and Jane Hazeltine Allen. Brad is survived by Jacklyn Yeatman Allen, his beloved wife of over 59 years. In addition to his wife, Brad is survived by his children, Tammy Zoppi and husband, Paul, John Allen and wife, Melanie, Kimberly Guy and husband, Mike, Katia Whitacre and husband, Brandon, and nine loving grandchildren, Kiersten, Michael, Alyssa, Matthew, Tyler, Olivia, Hannah, Jared, and Blake, as well as his sister, Bonnie. Brad was also very close to his niece Shannon McGinn-Jones, and he had an especially close relationship with Barbara O'Neal, who was a trusted and devoted friend and colleague for over 40 years. 

In addition to his parents, Brad was predeceased by his brother, Samuel Allen.

His Celebration of Life service was held on March 31 at the Kennett Golf and Country Club in Kennett Square.

Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Autism Delaware (autismdelaware.org), or to Meals on Wheels Delaware (mealsonwheelsde.org/support-us/donate-online). 

Arrangements are being handled by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory of Kennett Square, Inc. (484-734-8100). To view Brad’s online obituary and offer condolences, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.

Debra Lynn Malcolm

Debra Lynn Malcolm passed away unexpectedly at the age of 58 on March 20, 2025. Debbie was a loving mother, devoted grandmother, an aunt, a cherished friend, and a faithful Christian, whose life touched the hearts of all who knew her. 

Debbie was the proud and loving mother of five sons, Drew, Chris, Ryan, Devin, and Trevor. As the true definition of a “boy mom,” she dedicated her life to raising her sons with love, patience, and unwavering support. She was the cornerstone of their lives, always there to lend an ear, share jokes, and offer her boundless love. 

In addition to being a mother, Debbie was also a devoted mom-mom to her grandchildren, Landon, Peyton, Brody, Logan, Wyatt, Bryce, Reagan, Brynlee, Adalynn, Emery, Sebastian, Leah, and Rylee. Her love for them was truly immeasurable, and she found endless joy in being a part of their lives. Debbie’s care and affection for her family were the heartbeats of her existence, and her legacy of love will live on in each of them. Debbie was also survived by her father Bruce, sister Trish and brother Brian. 

Debbie had a heart of gold and was known for her selflessness. She would drop anything in the world to help her family and friends, always putting others before herself. Whether it was lending a hand or offering comfort, she was the person you could always rely on. Her genuine kindness, warmth, and compassion knew no bounds.

Debbie is now reunited with her beloved mother, whom she missed dearly. Though her physical presence is no longer with them, her family and friends find comfort in knowing that she is at peace and together with her mom.

Debbie will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit of love, care, and generosity will forever remain in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to experience her kindness.

A celebration of Debbie’s life will be held from 2 p..m. to 4 p.m. on April 5 at The Power Place in Kennett Square. All who knew her are invited to join in remembering and honoring her incredible life.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to https://gofund.me/cf2be2f3 in Debbie’s memory.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.   

Jack Riden

Jack Riden, of Kennett Square, passed away on Dec. 10, 2024 at the Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community in Quarryville. He was 88.

He was the spouse of the late Sandra (Yocum) Riden, with whom he shared 57 years of marriage. Born in Burnham, Pa., he was the son of the late Paul Riden and the late Alice (Atkinson) Riden. 

Jack graduated from Penn State with honors in 1958. He earned a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering. 

Jack joined the Navy after graduating and he was in the Navy for two years and was honorably discharged. 

His first job out of the Navy was with General Electric in Cincinnati, Ohio. He then worked for Machinery Associates where he became a partner. 

Jack and Sandra lived for over 20 years in Camp Hill, Pa. before moving to Berwyn, Pa. and eventually to Kennett Square. 

Jack loved to golf, play bridge and horseshoes, go boating and to travel. He and Sandra loved to go to Maine, and many places out west. He also liked to spend time with his family and especially his grandchildren. 

Jack will be remembered for his sense of humor, storytelling, and generosity. 

Jack is survived by his children, Leslie Staats and husband, Kurt, of North East, Md., Kurt Riden and wife, Jackie, of Etters, Pa., and Allison Ingaglio of West Grove, and his 7 grandchildren who called him Pap, Ryan, Ian, Cody, Zak, Avery, Erin and Caitlin. Also surviving are  his four great-grandchildren, Myla, Alara, Noah and Oaklee.

The Celebration of Life services took place on Jan. 18, 2025 at Hilton Garden Inn in Kennett Square.

Contributions in his memory may be made to any local charity. 

Arrangements were handled by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100) of Kennett Square. 

To view Jack’s online obituary and leave condolences, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.

Nancy Ellen Shivery Cooper

Nancy Ellen Shivery Cooper, 89, of Oxford, died on March 19, 2025, just 13 days shy of her 90th birthday, following a long and steady decline from dementia.

She was born in West Grove to parents Pauline and Jack Shivery, and Nancy moved to Oxford where she lived the rest of her life surrounded by the beautiful farm country of Southern Chester County—a place she deeply loved and proudly called home.

Nancy aspired to be a librarian, beginning her career in 1953 as a clerk typist at the U.S. Navy Hospital in Bainbridge, Md., and later serving at the Department of the Army’s Crew’s Library at Aberdeen Proving Ground. She also worked on and off for many years as a secretary for Oxford Plumbing & Heating.

In February 1954, Nancy married Harlan Cooper of Oxford. They spent 62 years together and raised four children. Throughout her life, Nancy was the heart and foundation of her family—a steady, loving and deeply devoted force that shaped several generations.

Nancy was a lifelong and dedicated member of Oxford United Methodist Church where she joyfully served in many roles: church secretary, choir member for nearly sixty years, Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher, and an active member of the United Methodist Women’s Group. She helped organize church luncheons, participated in the beloved Easter egg fundraiser, and tended faithfully to the church library for many years—a quiet and meaningful contribution that reflected her deep love of learning and service. She was also part of the church’s prayer chain, always wanting to lift up others in times of need.

Nancy was known for her creativity and adept handiwork. She was an exceptional seamstress and needleworker, making many of her own and her children’s clothes, as well as drapes, furniture coverings and decorative linens that brought warmth and character to her home and the community. She was a prolific canner, particularly of tomatoes, and an avid reader, always curious and always learning. Later in life, she took pride in mastering the iPad—her “Google Machine”—and spent hours researching topics on Wikipedia and keeping in touch with family, her “chicks,” on their shared text stream.

Nancy was known for her beloved potato salad, often found on the table at church picnics and family gatherings. (The secret ingredient? Miracle Whip—but shhhh, don’t tell.) She adored desserts—especially anything lemon-flavored—and had a soft spot for Dum-Dums lollipops. She loved flowers, especially yellow roses, daffodils and purple irises, and took joy in watching bluebirds, martins, hummingbirds and finches flutter outside her windows.

To her children, she was “Mom.” To her grandsons, she was their cherished “Nana.” And to extended family and friends, she was warmly known as “Aunt Nancy.” 

Nearly everyone who met Nancy said the same thing: “She was the kindest, nicest person I’ve ever met.” Her gentleness was a quiet strength, offered through a lifetime of care, humility and grace.

Nancy is survived by her sister, Sandra Souder, Oxford, and her four children, Linda Cooper of Newark, Del., Jon Cooper and his husband Ron Bacon of San Francisco, Calif., Glenn Cooper and his wife Tracy Cooper of Elkton, Md., and Ellen Cooper of Durham, NC. She is also survived by three grandsons, Chadwick Boyd of New York, NY, Bryce Cooper of Pittsburgh and Cole Cooper of Port Deposit, Md.

Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. followed by a celebration of life service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 10 at Oxford United Methodist Church at 18 Addison Street in Oxford. A luncheon will follow at noon in the church’s Fellowship Hall.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., (www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com) in Oxford.  

Virginia M. Thomas

Virginia M. Thomas, of Oxford, passed away March 16, 2025 at Union Hospital in Elkton, Md. She was 87.

She was the wife of the late John S. Thomas, with whom she shared 54 years of marriage.

Born in West Grove, she was the daughter of the late Branson and Nora Thomas Doss.

Virginia was employed as a home health care aide.

She was a member of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Oxford and Christ Church at the Grove in New London.

She enjoyed sewing, quilting, gardening and refinishing antique furniture.

She is survived by four daughters, Sharon T. Hawkins and her husband Wesley of Quarryville, Debra Marshall of Oxford, Cheryl Thomas of Kirkwood and Lisa Thomas of Oxford, and eight grandchildren, Laura Lee May, Danielle Henderson, Kimberly Main, John Thomas Desiree Thomas, Wesley Hawkins, Jr. Whitney McGinn and Robert Allen Little, Jr. She is also survived by seven great-grandchildren, two brothers, Earl Doss of Oxford and Conley Doss of West Grove, and two sisters, Irma Munday of Avondale and Phyllis Porter of Wawa.

She was preceded in death by a son, John L. Thomas, two grandchildren, Jessica Thomas and Theodore Marshall, IV, and four siblings, Kermit Doss, Irene Gilbert, Shirley Ward and Diane Johnson. 

Funeral services were held on March 22, 2025 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.

Interment was in Oxford Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.

Albert Loveland

Al Loveland, age 93, of Cochranville, died at home on February 26, 2025. He was the last remaining child of Robert and Sadie Loveland of Lenni, Pa. He was preceded in death by his siblings Robert, Buddy, Billy, David, Frank, Jimmy, Jack, Charlie, Dick and Hazel Mae.

Al served his country in the U.S. Air Force and Naval Reserves. He spent over 30 years at Scott Paper in Eddystone, Pa. He enjoyed over 32 years of retirement, spending time in Angola, Del., the Outer Banks in North Carolina, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Fairmount, Georgia.

Al loved animals, from his first dogs, Shorty and Bobo, through his retirement with his dogs Trinki Dink, Betsy, Cherokee, Gemma, and Bear. Plus, his cats Black Eyed Pea, Madison, Tubby, and Watson. 

He is survived by his three children, Andrea, of Cochranville, Albert, of Phoenix, Arizona, Jeanine, of Conway, SC, and his beloved granddaughter, Hazel Mae.

A Celebration of Life Service was held on March 28 at the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Oxford Neighborhood Services, 35 N 3rd Oxford, PA 19363.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com in Oxford.

Kitthiphong Phouthavongsa

Kitthiphong "Dok" Phouthavongsa, 46, of Oxford, lost his courageous battle with cancer on March 20, 2025 while surrounded by his family.

He was the husband of Jodi Kauffman Phouthavongsa and loving father of children Kaelyn and Cameron.

Born in Nong Khai, Thailand on February 5, 1979, he was the son of the late Somkiet Phouthavongsa and Bouakhanh Damrongtham.

Dok was a graduate of Avon Grove High School, class of 1997.  Following his graduation, Dok honorably served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1999 to 2004, where he developed lifelong friendships and a deep sense of duty.  After his military service, Dok dedicated 20 years to Agilent Technologies, where he was known for his commitment and work ethic.

Dok cherished watching his kids, Kaelyn and Cameron, play soccer and also took joy in coaching the sport he loved. He loved fishing and treasured yearly family vacations in the Outer Banks. Above all, Dok enjoyed being home, cooking, and spending quality time with his wife, Jodi, and their children.

Dok was genuinely one of a kind.  He had an incredible ability to make everyone around him laugh.  But beyond his laughs, his loyalty was unmatched.  He was always there for family and friends, ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear.  Dok's genuine nature and unwavering support made him not just a great husband and daddy but also a true friend to everyone who knew him.  Dok will be remembered for his kindness, strength, and positive influence he had on those around him.  He leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and love.

Dok is survived by the love of his life and wife, Jodi; one daughter, Kaelyn Phouthavongsa; one son, Cameron Phouthavongsa; a brother Phomsavanh (Kai) Phouthavongsa of Kemblesville; a sister Phonesavanh (Brad) Meadows of Pennsville, NJ; mother-in-law, Judy Kauffman; step-mother, Phismay Phamuang; and nieces and nephew, Alex, Gavin, and Ashley.

He was preceded in death by his father, Somkiet Phouthvongsa, father-in-law, Dwight Kauffman, and sister-in-law, Jill Kauffman.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 5 at Edward L. Collins Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., 86 Pine St., Oxford, where friends and family may visit from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a college fund for Kaelyn and Cameron.  Donations can be made at any Sun East Federal Credit Union by using the last name Phouthavongsa account ending in 0261 or to Union Presbyterian Church in Kirkwood, Pa.

Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.