Francis Xavier Haley, veteran, devoted to family
Francis Xavier Haley, 88, of Lewes, formerly of New Castle and Philadelphia, Pa., passed away peacefully Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, at Cadia Renaissance in Millsboro.
Born Feb. 21, 1937, in Philadelphia, Pa., he was the beloved son of the late Joseph and Margaret Haley. A proud alumnus of West Catholic High School for Boys, Class of 1955, Francis went on to serve his country honorably in the U.S. Army, spending two years stationed in Korea.
Following his military service, Francis began his professional career at Grinnell Sprinkler Systems before joining Herman Goldner in 1959. Through his dedication, work ethic, and leadership, he rose through the ranks to become vice president of operations, retiring after more than 46 years of service. In 1970, he and his family relocated to New Castle, and later retired to their summer home in Lewes in 1998.
Francis was a man of quiet strength and boundless patience. He had a passion for puzzles, especially the most intricate ones, which he would painstakingly complete, matte, and frame as artwork for his home. He was also an avid golfer and a devoted fan of Philadelphia sports teams. One of his greatest joys was visiting Disney World with his family, creating treasured memories that will last a lifetime.
Above all, Francis was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His love and unwavering dedication to his wife of 63 years, Eileen, and their three daughters were at the center of his life. His girls were truly his world.
He was a proud member of Kings Creek Country Club and St. Vincent de Paul Society at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church in Lewes.
Francis is survived by the love of his life, Eileen Haley; his daughters, Eileen Kohler (Darin), Kathleen Cullen (Patrick) and Karen Stelly (Joshua); his cherished grandchildren, Katelyn, Lauren, Justin (Lauren), Meghan, Sarah (Jonathan), William and Braden; three adored great-grandchildren, Liam, Billie Anne and Kennedy, with a fourth on the way. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Joseph Haley, Michael Haley and Maryann Berryman.
A viewing will be held from 10 to 11 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 18, at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, 152 Tulip Drive, Lewes, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions in Francis’ name be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, c/o St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church.
Francis' family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all of the staff at Cadia Renaissance for their above-and-beyond care of him these past few months.
Arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes.
Visit Mr. Haley’s Life Tribute webpage and sign his online guestbook at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
