Josephine B. van Es' Obituary
Josephine Brittingham van Es, age 97 of Lewes, DE passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday, September 12, 2022. She was born on November 17, 1924, in Lewes, DE, daughter of the late William Herald and Mary Frances (Atkins) Brittingham.
Josephine graduated high school and then continued her studies at Goldey - Beacom College in Wilmington, DE for a short stint. On March 11, 1944, she married the love of her life, Hendrik A. van Es at Lewes Presbyterian Church. They were married for 31 years until his untimely death at age 56. She built a career as a cosmetic buyer and assistant store manager at Strawbridge and Clothier in Springfield, PA.
Josephine handled membership drives at Drexelbrook Club and was the vice president of the PTA in Drexel Hill, PA. She was also involved in multiple fundraising events, including the American Heart Association in Delaware County, PA. After her retirement, Josephine enjoyed doing crossword puzzles and listening to audio books. She lived independently in her own home at the Plantations in Lewes until late June 2022, when she suffered a stroke and a short battle with congestive heart failure. Above all, Josephine loved spending time with those she held most dear. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, aunt, and grandmother. Loved by many, she will be deeply missed by all who had the good fortune to know her.
Her daughter Karen wishes to acknowledge the invaluable assistance of Judy Melson and Tammy Serman in the care of her mother, especially in the final two weeks of Josephine’s life.
In addition to her parents, Josephine was predeceased by her husband, Hendrik van Es; her sisters, Geraldine Montgomery, and Claudia Melson; and her brother, William Herald Brittingham, Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Karen van Es (David Main) of Great Falls, VA; her granddaughters: Anna Main (Peter Shanley) and Katherine Carman (Jeremy) and their children; her brother, David Richard Brittingham; her nephew, JB Melson (Judy); her nieces: Tammy Serman (David); Sara Catherine Bakehorn; Sandra London (Vic), and Jacqueline Sterling (Greg).
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donation in Josephine's memory to a children's or animal welfare charity of your choosing, or Beebe Medical Foundation, 902 Savannah Road, Lewes, DE 19958.
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.
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