David Henry Wilmore "Peabody"

With deep love and profound sadness, the family of David Henry Wilmore, affectionately known as "Peabody," announces his untimely passing on January 23, 2026.

David was born on June 10, 1961, in Salem, New Jersey, to the late Barbara "Marie" Shaffer and Johnny Wilmore. At 64 years old, David was full of life and lived each day with happiness, purpose, and determination.

David later settled in Middletown, Delaware, with his life partner, Dorothy Averiett. Together, they built a life grounded in love, routine, and companionship. David was not one to sit still; he enjoyed going to work each day, took pride in being dependable, and remained committed to his daily routines. Staying busy brought him joy, and he found comfort in structure, responsibility, and living life to the fullest.

Those who knew David recognized his appreciation for the simple things. He loved being active, being productive, and making the most of every day. His energy, dedication, and positive outlook were evident in all that he did. David approached life with enthusiasm and a strong work ethic, always finding purpose in movement and meaning in routine.

David will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew and loved him. He is now a guardian angel to his three sons, David Wilmore Jr. ("Little David"), Edward Wilmore, and Thomas Wilmore; his beloved late daughter, Sierra Wilmore; and his bonus daughter, Marlo Washington. He was a proud grandfather to 16 grandkids and 7 great grandkids.

He is also survived by his brothers Carl Wilmore, Johnny Wilmore, and Tony Wilmore, and his sisters Juanita Wilmore and Barbara Pierce, along with more nieces and nephews than any one man could ever imagine having. David is further survived by Dorothy Averiett, his life partner who walked beside him through life, loving every flaw and imperfection that made him truly one of a kind, as well as a multitude of cherished friends and family.

David's memory will live on through the love he shared, the example he set, and the many lives he touched along the way.