Robert L. Hitchens, Ellis Farms employee

Robert L. Hitchens, 77, of Millsboro, formerly of Snow Hill, Md., passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family Thursday, Nov. 28, 2019, at his home.

He was born in Frankford Jan. 22, 1942, son of the late Orn Hitchens and the late Elizabeth (Rogers) Furbush.  Robert proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Cuban Missile Crisis from 1960-62. 

Robert worked as a poultry grower for 20 years before working for the Worcester County Landfill for a little over 12 years.  After working for the county, he worked for Ellis Farms before his retirement.  

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Loretta M. Hitchens in March 2019; two brothers, Ira “Junior” Donaway Jr. and James “Buddy” Donaway; and a sister, Patsy Callaway.  He is survived by his son, JD Hitchens and his wife Brandy of Millsboro and three grandchildren, Landon Johnson, Madison Hitchens and Payton Hitchens.  He is also survived by a special niece, Tina Litten and her husband Gabe of Newark, Md.; three nephews, Randy West and his wife Gwen of Berlin, Md., Dean Long and his significant other Dawn of Whaleyville, Md., and CC Long of Milford; and his beloved Ellis Farms family.  

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 5, at the Frankford Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 43 Thatcher St., Frankford, where friends and family may call after 1 p.m.  Interment will follow at Carey’s Cemetery in Frankford.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to help defray funeral expenses to Melson Funeral Services, PO Box 100, Frankford, DE 19945.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralserices.com