Cora Doretha Robinson Washington, dedicated to church

Cora Doretha Robinson Washington was born Sunday, June 3, 1923. She went home to be with the Lord Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020, at 8:30 a.m., at her home in Lewes, surrounded by her daughter, Leonia, and her healthcare aide. Cora was the oldest African American in Lewes.

Cora was raised and educated in the local schools in Lewes. Cora wasn’t able to attend Delaware State College due to financial difficulties.  She worked with her mother as a domestic engineer.

Cora and her parents lived on Savannah Road next to the fire station. They eventually moved to St. Paul Street.  

Cora was employed at Sport Craft.  She and her friend, Mary Lib Riley, walked to work every day.  They were also joined by their friend, Sarah Collick.  While working at Sport Craft, Cora met the love of her life, Collins Washington.  She affectionately called him “Wash.”  They lived in Lewes all their lives. Their first home was on Pig Tail Alley, now known as Coleman Avenue.  They later relocated to DuPont Avenue and that’s where she remained until her passing. 

Cora had a love for the piano and played by ear. At an early age she joined St. George A.M.E. Church. It was a must to attend church and Sunday school.  Cora was a dedicated member for 75 years. She was a stewardess, missionary and helped with various ministries. Years later Cora joined Friendship Baptist Church. While there, she became involved with the missionary department which she truly loved. She enjoyed the visits they made every month. She loved keeping the white communion coverings ready.  Cora was loved by everyone she met. She always had some candy in her pocketbook. There were treats enough for everyone. Cora became the mother of the church, along with Mary Turner and Lucinda White.  Mother Cora placed telephone calls morning and nights to so many people. She always was someone who had something to say to make you laugh; just ask Rev. McCaffity and Sister Edwards. She was a mess!

In addition to her husband, Collins Washington, Cora was preceded in death by her daughter Julia “Bonnie” Coyle; son Ronald Maull Robinson Sr.; grandson Ronald Robinson Jr. and great-grandson Bryant Robinson Jr.

Cora leaves to cherish her memory, daughter Leonia Robinson; eight grandchildren, James Robinson, Michele Ward, Teresa Johnson, Robbie Robinson, Ramona Robinson, Adrian James, Maria Perkins and Trudy Maker; 24 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; sister, Debythia Maull Singleton; a special niece, Cora Elizabeth Campbell; five additional nieces; four nephews; special friend and neighbor, Lorraine Smith; three adopted daughters, Gladys Briggs, Alicia Cephas and Marie Loper; four adopted sons, Bobby Savage, Thomas Palmer, Barry Bull and Kenneth Riley; senior companion from First State Community Action, Faye Burton; many adopted children; special nurse, Gina Mifflin; special friends, Elizabeth Ball and Mary Turner; sister-in-law, Linda Stone; and a host of cousins and friends. 

Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, Oct. 10, at noon, at Friendship Baptist Church, 500 W. 4th St. Lewes. Family and friends may visit two hours prior to the service. A viewing will be held Friday, Oct. 9, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Friendship Baptist Church.

To offer words of comfort or sign the guestbook visit www.benniesmithfuneralhome.com. Professional services entrusted to Bennie Smith Funeral Home, Millsboro.