Irvin Benton King, DuPont retiree
Irvin Benton King, 80, passed away peacefully with his family by his side Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, at the Manor House in Seaford, after bravely battling a rare and progressive form of Parkinson’s disease. Born Dec, 31, 1943, in Milford, he was the son of the late Orlando Calhoun and Esther Mayme Gordy King.
Raised on the family farm in Georgetown, Irvin cherished his roots and carried that steadfast spirit into his education. He graduated from Georgetown High School and earned a degree in mechanical engineering from University of Delaware.
In November 1965, he married Katherine Yeoman, and they shared 59 wonderful years. That same year, he embarked on a 37-year career as a polymer engineer with the DuPont Company. Throughout his tenure, he contributed to numerous projects, traveled extensively, earned a patent, and spent six months in Singapore with Kathy, helping to launch a new nylon plant. He retired as a research fellow, the highest technical professional level within the company. Even after retirement, he remained actively engaged, consulting for DuPont on various projects, including the design and construction of a new nylon plant in Saudi Arabia—a venture that also allowed him to visit and witness its development firsthand.
He was a dedicated member of Seaford Presbyterian Church, where he served multiple terms as both an elder and a deacon, contributing his time and talents to numerous church projects. Irvin found great satisfaction in tackling home improvement projects and managing his rental properties.
A passionate traveler, he delighted in river and ocean cruises across Europe and the Middle East, as well as exploring new destinations with family and friends. Above all, Irvin’s greatest joy came from being a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather, cherishing every moment spent with his family.
Irv is survived by his loving wife, Katherine Yeoman King; daughter, Katherine King Brown (Sean Michael); grandson, Jacob E. Palmer; sister, Janet Lee King; brother, Orlando Calhoun King Jr. (Trudy); and several nieces and nephews.
A viewing will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 11, at Short Funeral Services, 609 E Market St., Georgetown. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 12, at ACTS Manor House chapel, 1001 Middleford Road, Seaford, with refreshments following. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Seaford Presbyterian Church, 701 Bridgeville Hwy., Seaford DE 19973; or ACTS Manor House Willowbrook Skilled Center, 1001 Middleford Road, Seaford, DE 19973.
Online condolences can be made to shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.
