William C. Lecates, active community member, coach
William “Bill” C. Lecates, 74, of Georgetown, passed away surrounded by his loving family Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024.
Bill graduated from Georgetown High School, Class of 1968. During his high school years, he was an outstanding athlete, playing football (quarterback), basketball (point guard), and baseball (shortstop). By far, his favorite sport was baseball, and he excelled in this sport, as recognized by the Morning News/News Journal sportswriters as the top pick for the state as a shortstop (this was before official All-State teams were chosen by coaches).
After high school, Bill attended Delaware State College on a full baseball scholarship and was a standout for the Hornets baseball teams of the early 1970s. He was an All-Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association First Team selection and National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics All-Star (third base) in 1971. The Hornets compiled a 17-8 overall record and captured the school’s third straight CIAA championship with Bill being the RBI leader and most valuable player. He also helped lead Delaware State to CIAA crowns in 1969 and 1970. He also was named team MVP in 1972, earned Outstanding College Athletes of America Award in 1971 and 1972, voted Delaware State University’s Most Dedicated Player in 1971, as well as, captain of the team.
After graduating in 1972, he was recruited to be the first baseball coach for the newly formed Delaware Technical and Community College baseball team. He then went on to coach Sussex Central High School baseball, and Georgetown Little League, Big League, and Senior League baseball teams.
He transitioned to coaching Georgetown Little League softball as his daughter came of age. He coached Tee Ball, Minor League, and Major League softball, as well as serving on the board of directors. He moved on to Sussex Central High School softball and joined Coach John Wells for 25 years, where their successful program reached the state finals eight times with three state final championships. During this period the team had over 400 wins.
Bill was inducted into three Halls of Fame for his athletic accomplishments, Delaware State University, Delaware Baseball Hall of Fame, and Eastern Shore Hall of Fame.
He was employed by Sussex County Council and began his career as a youth director for the CETA program, had several job promotions before being named director of Community Development and Housing. In this position, he had over 21 years of experience working with low- and moderate-income citizens of Sussex County. He was recognized by the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials for his dedication and commitment to providing affordable housing and housing improvements for Sussex County residents.
In his community, he was on the Return Day board of directors and had served as vice president. He was a past member of the Historic Georgetown Association, a member of the board of directors for First State Community Action Agency, and a board member of the Delaware Weatherization Assistance Program. He also served on the Town of Georgetown’s board of adjustment.
Bill is survived by his wife, Chris (Croll); daughter, Betsy; and brother, Darryl (Edith).
Arrangements will be private.
Short Funeral Services Inc., Georgetown, is honored to be caring for Bill and his family.
Online condolences may be offered at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.
