Gerry H. Orton, retired river pilot
Capt. Gerry H. “Bert” Orton, of Rehoboth Beach and a native of Lewes, passed away Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, surrounded by his siblings. He was a proud graduate of Cape Henlopen High School Class of 1975, and University of Delaware Class of 1979.
Gerry combined a sharp mind with a big heart. He loved supporting local restaurants, and sharing meals and stories with those he cared about. He enjoyed being a member of the Rehoboth and Kings Creek Country Clubs, where he played golf often with family and friends, especially enjoying the 19th hole. He was a legacy participant on many annual golf trips with friends. An occasional sports bet or visit to Harrington Casino & Raceway was always a fun outing.
Gerry had a quick mind for sports trivia and enjoyed a good competition over card games. A lifelong lover of animals and an avid Eagles and Phillies fan, his love of sports began on the Lewes Little League fields. He brought warmth and joy to every gathering with his quiet presence and would give his last penny to a stranger.
Born to the late Capt. James Richard and Barbara Orton, Gerry grew up with a deep love for the water, which led to a fulfilling career as a Delaware Bay and River pilot. He proudly served on the river for many years before retiring at 58, leaving behind a legacy of skill, dedication, and friendship.
Gerry was preceded in death by his parents, James Richard and Barbara Orton; his sister and brother-in-law, Tina and Tom Smokovich; and his nephew, Toby Smokovich.
He is survived by his siblings, J. Richard Orton (Linda), Tammy Campbell (Mike) and Rob Orton (Dana); his cherished nieces and nephews, Heather Meredith, Patrick, Ryan and Brendan Campbell, Justin and Lindsay Orton, and Connor and Kyle Orton; and great-nieces and -nephews, Savannah, Liam, Becca, Aubrey, Mason, Jackson, Callum, Ashlynn, Colton, Kendal, Blake, Ella and Christopher. He is also survived by many extended family members and friends who will carry his memory with love.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Sept. 29, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes, where friends and family may visit beginning at 9:30 a.m.
Anyone unable to attend the services may view the livestream at: parsellfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/permalink/11916509/LTWebcast.
Contributions are suggested to the American Liver Foundation, Delaware Valley Chapter, 111 Presidential Blvd., Ste. 214, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004; or Brandywine Valley SPCA, 22918 DuPont Hwy., Georgetown, DE 19947.
Gerry will be remembered for his big heart, his generosity, and his love for life. His legacy of kindness, subtle humor, and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Visit Gerry’s Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
