Shirley Viola Wilgus

It is with a warm heart that we celebrate the life of Shirley Viola Wilgus of Wilmington, Delaware. Shirley died peacefully May 23, 2020 under the expert care of Sunrise Senior Living.

Shirley was born on Scott Street in 1921 in one of several houses her Grandfather John Rau built. Her parents were Esther Rau and Vaughn Spruance Ponsell. She attended P.S. DuPont High school where she excelled in academics and had lead roles in live theater. After high school, Shirley became a career secretary for the DuPont Company. She married Carlton F Wilgus of Chester, Pa who also worked for DuPont and was later widowed by him.

Shirley retired from DuPont in 1980 and continued enjoying life with friends and family. She had many aunts, uncles and friends and often hosted fun gatherings so everyone could get together. Shirley loved nature and long walks in Bellevue Park, she loved Rockford Tower, Atlantic City and the beaches in Florida. She loved parties, good restaurants, Delaware, Williamsburg, Switzerland, her friends and, especially, books.

Those of us who knew her, knew her as a lively, educated, independent woman who navigated her way through life on her own terms. She had many friends of different ages which reflected the versatility of her interests and the sharpness of her mind. She could converse on any topic, had opinions about most things and wasn’t afraid to express them. She traveled the world and enjoyed life to its fullest. She always said what a good life she had and how lucky she felt. She even said that although she had some regrets they were, in the words of Frank Sinatra, “ too few to mention”.

Shirley represents the last of a generation of smart and strong women in our circle of friends and family. Although she has no surviving relatives, she leaves behind friends and acquaintances who will always smile when they think of her. She will not be forgotten.

Here’s to you, Shirley. May you Rest In Peace and be reunited with your loved ones

Services will be private.