Richard Dean Shippy
June 22, 1937 - February 16, 2026
Richard Dean Shippy, age 88, of Newark, Delaware, passed away peacefully at home on February 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Dean was born on June 22, 1937, in Camden, Michigan, to Richard and Florence Shippy.
In 1961, he married the love of his life, AvaJo Hilner. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, and education, raising two children, Randall and Lisa. Dean was a devoted husband and father who rarely missed a school event, game, or activity. He took great pride in supporting his children and later his grandchildren in all their pursuits.
Dean earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Education from Michigan State University, his Master of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Delaware, and his Doctorate in Agricultural Education from Penn State University. Education was not only his profession but his lifelong passion.
Over a distinguished 38-year career at the University of Delaware, Dean served in numerous capacities, including Professor and Associate Dean of Agricultural Economics, involvement with the Food Business Institute, and as Student Advisor for FFA and Alpha Zeta Agricultural Fraternity. He was deeply committed to mentoring students and shaping future leaders in agriculture. In recognition of his dedication, he received the University’s Excellence-in-Advising Award, honoring his outstanding teaching and mentorship.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dean found joy in his many interests. He was an avid milk bottle collector, amassing one of the most extensive college bottle collections in the country, as well as one of the largest Delaware bottle collections in the state. A skilled angler, he cherished his annual family fishing trips to Canada, where countless memories were made. A loyal supporter of University of Delaware football and basketball, he held season tickets for 40 years and rarely missed a game.
Dean was a longtime member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, where he faithfully served on numerous committees over the years. His quiet leadership, steady presence, and generous spirit left a lasting impact on his church community.
Dean is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, AvaJo; his daughter, Lisa (David) Kenney; daughter-in-law, Debra; grandchildren Ryan (Lauren), Eric (Molly), Jennifer, Brian (Molly), Jude, and Alex; and great-grandchildren Ella, Piper, Luca, and Noah. He was preceded in death by his son, Randall.
A service to celebrate Dean’s life will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 701 S. College Avenue, Newark, Delaware 19713 on Friday, March 6, visitation at 10:15, service at 11:00.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dean’s memory to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 701 S. College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713.
Lisa Chieffo and Joachim PIprek
We are so sorry to hear of Dean’s passing. He was a wonderful neighbor to us for over 15 years–helpful, friendly, happy to pass on names of reliable plumbers, etc.. Many times after a snowstorm he would come over with his snow blower and help us clear our driveway and sidewalk, just because he was a nice guy. He took great pride in his home and was out picking up sticks on his lawn about five minutes after a storm ended. When we were on vacation he and AvaJo would water our plants and keep an eye on things. Dean truly lived the spirit of his faith and was the best neighbor one could ask for. We will miss him.
Karen Roth Moline
I was so sorry to hear about Dr. Shippy’s passing. He gave me my start at UD, hiring a naive 22-year old and giving me the chance and support to succeed in a long and rewarding UD career. I enjoyed hearing of his children and grandchildren, his milk bottle collecting, and his infectious laugh. In his retirement years, it was always good to see him walking Main Street in the early hours. May he rest in peace, and my sincere comfort to his family.
Jim Hearn
Our entire family enjoyed visiting and chatting about milk bottles with Dean. Our father Rowland surely enjoyed Dean’s friendship. Our parents really enjoyed sharing meals and hanging out with Dean and AvaJo at the milk bottle conventions. Dean and his laugh will be missed!
Chip McDaniel
AvaJo and Lisa,
My condolences to you both and your extended family. You were all great neighbors when we lived at 25 Fremont Rd, and I know that Dean and you were very kind and helpful to my mother, Betty, as she got older. You can be very proud of the good man that Dean was.
Regards,
John S “Chip” McDaniel
Betsy McDaniel Cromwell
Deepest sympathy for the passing of Dr. Shippy. I remember him as a wonderful neighbor & a resourceful professor at UD. I remember afternoons with many neighborhood kids playing in your yard & he took it all in stride. I am thinking of all of you during this time.