Newell R. Washburn Jr., respected OB/GYN

Dr. Newell R. Washburn Jr., 85, of Lewes, passed away peacefully at home Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024, with family by his side.

Newell was born in Milford to the late Dr. Newell R. Washburn Sr. and Elizabeth Vinyard Washburn. He spent his early childhood in Milford, where his father practiced medicine before the family moved to Binghamton, N.Y. Newell graduated from St. Andrew’s School in Middletown, then earned a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts from Yale University. He continued his education, obtaining both law and medical degrees from the University of Michigan. Newell started his medical residency for obstetrics and gynecology at University of Miami/Jackson Health in Florida but relocated back to Delaware and finished his residency at ChristianaCare in Newark.

Dr. Washburn specialized in obstetrics and gynecology for over 25 years, practicing first in Milford and then Lewes before retiring in 2007. Often, while running errands, he would be greeted by women who had been under his care, and delighted in hearing about their children whom he had helped to deliver.

Dr. Washburn enjoyed the outdoors and would spend his free time running on the beach, bird-watching, horseback riding, doing yard work, and volunteering for Delaware State Parks. He was also an avid learner, enjoying reading his papers, taking trips to the bookstore, and listening to lectures. Those who knew him well will miss his dry wit and mischievous smile.

Newell was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Caroline Vreede and Eleanor Washburn. He is survived by Hilda, his wife of over 40 years; and their blended family of six children, Newell R. Washburn III, Pilar Washburn, Kimberly Jefferson (Donny), Jennifer Olesen (Peter), Nevin Washburn and Elizabeth Strite (Danny); 14 grandchildren; and three great-granddaughters. He will be greatly missed.

The family wishes to send a special thank you to the many caring staff members of Delaware Hospice, as well as the dedicated caregivers who were hired by the family to assist in Newell’s care.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 24, at Greenwood Mennonite Church, Greenwood, with a memorial service beginning at 2 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.

Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Services, Milton.