Elizabeth Sheats, state retiree

Elizabeth “Betty” Sheats, 94, better known as Betty Boop of Lewes, formerly of Middletown, passed peacefully in the early morning hours of Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026.

She was born June 16, 1931, in Wilmington, to the late Adelaide and Leland Sinex.

Betty was the beloved wife for 37 years to her late husband, Julian. She is survived by three sons and their wives, Leland (Susan), Law (Katie) and Julian (Jo Anna); seven grandchildren, Zachary (Ali), Daniel, Lauren, Calley, Michael, Morgan (Kip) and Savannah; and five great-grandchildren, Bennett, Liam, Emersen, Swayde and Sophie.

She spent a majority of her career as a proud State of Delaware employee working for over five decades in multiple departments.

Betty was the beloved matriarch of the family affectionately named “Boop” by her grandchildren. Her home was always open to not only family but also friends, who were considered extension of her family. Along with her open-door policy she was famously known for her cooking, which usually included delicious mac & cheese. Betty also gained notoriety marching in the inaugural Hummers parade that launched from her porch on Broad Street in Middletown.

She was lifelong beach goer. She split her trips between hauling a carload of grandkids to Funland and spending Fridays in a circle with her decades-long friend group of beach buddies before enjoying a slice of Grotto Pizza on the boardwalk.

A funeral service will be held at noon, Friday, Feb. 20, at Bethel United Methodist Church, 129 W. 4th St., Lewes, with a viewing from 11 a.m. to noon.  

Burial will take place Tuesday, March 3, at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear.

In lieu of flowers, send donations to Lewes Historical Society, historiclewes.org/support.

To send online condolences please visit Daniels-Hutchison.com