John Paul Vickers Sr., veteran, lifelong trucker

John Paul Vickers Sr., 81, of Lewes, passed away Friday, May 5, 2023, at home, in his sleep after recent health complications. He was born Nov. 5, 1941, in Portsville, to the late Atley Linwood Vickers and Myrtle Mae (Paul) Vickers. He grew up in the surrounding area of Bethel before moving to Milton in his early years, attending Milton High School. Upon leaving high school, he joined the Army National Guard until his honorable discharge in 1966. 

John Paul spent most of his working life as a truck driver. He drove for various companies and eventually owned his own trucks, operating as Vickers Trucking. He loved being on the road. He even worked for Care Transit in his retirement years, transporting folks to appointments and making new friends along the way. He also enjoyed NASCAR, crabbing, cooking, going to the casinos, and spending time with his family. 

John is preceded in death by his parents, and three brothers, Charles, Ronnie and Brent Vickers. He is survived by his longtime partner, Rita Piper; his daughter, Sharon (Vickers) Chalabala (Bruno); sons, John P. Vickers Jr. (Cheryl), David K. Vickers (Leslee) and Chance Vickers (Emily); and his brother, Horace Vickers of Bridgeville. In addition, he is survived by six grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, his ex-wife/friend Joan Vickers, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and by his faithful canine companion, Diesel. He will be greatly missed by all. 

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, May 20, at Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton, where friends may visit beginning at 2 p.m.

Arrangements in the care of Short Funeral Services.

Online condolences and memories can be shared with the family at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.