Richard Allan Wyatt's Obituary
Richard “Jake” Allan Wyatt, age 84, of Laurel, DE, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. He was born on April 6, 1940, in Milford, DE, and was lovingly raised by his grandparents, John and Annabel Wyatt. His grandfather affectionately nicknamed him “Jake,” a name he carried with him throughout his life.
After completing his education, Jake joined the National Guard, where he served for three years before enlisting in the U.S. Army for an additional six years. His military service took him to Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C., where he was stationed during his first tour. While on leave, he met Carol “Cricket” Wyatt, the love of his life, and they married, sharing 38 wonderful years together until her passing in 1998. Together, they raised three children: Timothy, Richard, and Kimberly.
Jake’s service continued with a tour in Japan, and later back to Walter Reed Hospital, where he worked at the Institute of Pathology. He was especially proud to receive the Soldier of the Month award during his time there. His subsequent tour took him to Kuwait, where he participated in reconnaissance missions. Following his honorable discharge, Jake worked in civil service at Fort Lee, VA, overseeing the petroleum operations for the base. He later worked for A&P Grocery Store, retiring after 27 dedicated years.
Jake had a lifelong passion for sports, hunting, fishing, and NASCAR. He cherished the time spent attending races with his good friend Bobby Robinson. In 2000, Jake met Betty Carson from Laurel, DE, and the two shared many happy years together. Jake was also a devoted member of the Nanticoke Senior Center and attended The Mission Community Church in Laurel, DE.
Jake was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cricket; his brother, Henry Quillen; his grandparents; his mother, Winifred (Kemp) Wyatt; and three other brothers. He is survived by his children: Timothy Wyatt of Milford, DE; Richard Wyatt of Wilmington, DE; and Kimberly Givens of Georgetown, DE; his grandchildren: J.C. Givens, Andrew Givens, and Joshua Givens, all of Georgetown, DE, and Megan Wyatt Hastings of Seaford, DE; his sisters: Evelyn Bennum of Georgetown, DE, and Pam Tooey of Wilmington, DE; and his cousins: Suge Wyatt, Mary Lake, and Hazel Pusey.
Jake will be forever loved and deeply missed by all who knew him.
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