Van Wilson Milligan's Obituary
Van Wilson Milligan, 78, of Seaford, Delaware, passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2026.
A lifelong resident of Sussex County, Van was known for his generous spirit, steady presence, and deep love for family, friends, and community. Whether he was welcoming guests into his home, sharing stories with friends, working with his hands in the workshop, or helping a neighbor in need, Van had a way of making people feel valued and at ease.
Born on April 7, 1948, in Dover, Delaware, Van was the son of the late Mollie Smith Milligan and Clarence Melvin Milligan. He graduated from Seaford High School in 1966 and proudly served his country in the National Guard.
On January 20, 1968, Van married the love of his life, Penny Dale Milligan, at Wesley Church in Seaford. Together they shared 58 years of marriage, building a home centered on faith, family, friendship, and hospitality.
Van dedicated his professional career to Sussex County, serving as a Building Code Supervisor. He was respected for his strong work ethic, practical knowledge, and commitment to the community he loved.
A devoted Mason, Van was a member of Hiram Lodge No. 21 in Seaford. He enjoyed woodworking, carving, trains, antiques, collecting old tools, and was an avid Coca-Cola collector. He rarely met a stranger and was known for his willingness to lend a hand, share what he had, and make others feel welcome. Many who knew him remember his kindness, generosity, and genuine enjoyment of being surrounded by family and friends.
In addition to his beloved wife, Penny, Van is survived by his two sons, Michael Milligan (Robin) of Seaford and Brent Milligan (Corinna) of Seaford; four grandchildren, Aaron Milligan (Jude) of Lambertville, New Jersey, Nathan Milligan (Lauren) of Bridgeville, Emily Milligan (Matthew) of Seaford, and Abbie Milligan of Seaford; and two great-grandchildren, Lawson Milligan and Adley Milligan of Bridgeville.
He is also survived by his brother, Stanley Milligan of Manchester, Maryland; his sister-in-law, Linda Davis of Seaford; and many extended family members and cherished friends.
Van leaves behind grandchildren by love: Justin Workman (Lisa) of Greenwood, Ashley Manges (Melvyn) of Bridgeville, Cody Baker (Sara) of Roxana, Katelyn Baker of Georgetown, Taylor Betts (Gage) of Seaford, and Alyssa Collins of Seaford. He was also blessed with twelve great-grandchildren by love: Loghan, Remi, Rylie, River, Audie, Braylee, Lainey, Callie, Brystol, Savannah, Kaden, and Jace.
He is fondly remembered by his nephews Scott Milligan of Easton, Eric Hearn of Laurel, and Jimmy Calhoun of Georgetown; his nieces Traci Milligan of Seaford, Terri Collins of Delmar, and Brenna Pizzaia of Laurel; and by his dear friends Bob and Dori Cummings, Debbie and Dave Bailey, Cinni Cummings, Gay Kern, Sandy Bowland, and Judy Roach.
In addition to his parents, Van was preceded in death by his brothers, Kuhlman Milligan and Webster Milligan, and his sisters, Ida Lee Calhoun and Dathiette Hearn.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Church of the Nazarene, 100 Walnut Street, Laurel, Delaware 19956.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gethsemane Church, 2701 Woodland Road, Seaford, Delaware 19973, or to the Church of the Nazarene, 100 Walnut Street, Laurel, Delaware 19956.
Van's life was defined by his faith, his devotion to family, and the friendships he cultivated over the years. The example he set through his generosity, service, hospitality, and wit will continue to live on in the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Please visit Van's Life Memorial at https://www.parsellfuneralhomes.com
Please sign the tribute wall located on this website.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE HAVE ALL FLOWERS DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO THE CHURCH OF NAZARENE IN LAUREL DELAWARE ON TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2026 BY NOON.
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