Sussex economic development director Booker-Wilkins dies at 52

Melody Booker-Wilkins, the energetic force behind Sussex County's economic development office, died the evening of Sept. 22 following a months-long illness.

"Sussex County has lost one of its brightest lights and greatest champions,” council President Michael Vincent said in a statement. "On behalf of the Sussex County Council and the entire county government, we extend our deepest sympathies to Melody’s family, friends and associates in this time of sorrow."

Funeral arrangements are pending, said county spokesman Chip Guy.

Booker-Wilkins, 52, took the reins as Sussex County's economic development director in 2014. Prior to joining the county, she worked in both the public and private sectors. A graduate of the University of Maryland, she worked for 20 years in sales for radio and TV stations on Delmarva including WBOC, WGMD and Eagle 97.7, among others and was a Milford resident for more than 25 years. She also served on Kent-Sussex Industries board of directors, volunteered with Junior Achievement in Delaware, was an ex-officio member of the Sussex County Economic Development Action Committee and a board member of Southern Delaware Tourism. 

“Professional, engaging, and always full of energy, Melody took to heart her mission as economic development director to promote Sussex County everywhere she went and with anyone she met,” Vincent said. “She had a passion for seeing possibilities realized into success, but most of all, she loved helping people and sharing in their individual celebrations. Melody was the unquestionable example of a people person, and people were better for knowing her and for being in her infectious presence.”