Clifford P. Diver of Wilmington, Delaware died peacefully with his children by his side on February 2, 2022, one week shy of his ninety eighth birthday. He was born on Broom Street in Wilmington into the family of Frank W. Diver and Carolyn Prickett Diver. He enjoyed a robust upbringing with seven siblings.
He attended Mercersburg Academy and Amherst College before serving in the Army Air Corps in Europe during World War II. Upon his return from the war, he married Jean Mears, and dedicated himself to raising a family, running Diver Chevrolet in Wilmington with his brothers, and serving the community. He loved traveling, dancing with his wife Jean and spending time with his four children. He especially enjoyed the large dinners at his parents’ home with his siblings, their spouses and a massive number of nieces and nephews.
Mr. Diver is remembered by his extended family at Diver Chevrolet for his empathy for both employees and customers, which he enjoyed equally. He was a presence there for over seventy years, known for his wit and wisdom and as a person who always made time to listen. He was President for many years, and at 91 years old he relinquished control to his nephew, Rich Diver. He was immensely proud of the fact that for over 100 years there has always been a Diver on duty.
Cliff was well respected in the business community serving on the board of Wilmington Savings Fund Society in the 1980’s as well as the New Castle Mutual Insurance Corporation. He also served in various leadership roles at Immanuel Church Highlands. He served with distinction on the board of The Sunday Breakfast Mission and the Florence Crittenton Home in Wilmington. In his later years he was always there as a consoling, helping hand to others of his generation as their loved ones passed on.
Mr. Diver was predeceased by his parents and seven siblings, his wife Jean Mears Diver in 1989 and his daughter Susan Diver in 1987. He is survived by Clifford P. Diver, Jr. (Kathryn Byrne) of Lewes, Delaware, Barbara Diver Stinson of Atlanta, Georgia, Stanley Diver (Martha) of Wilmington, Delaware; grandchildren, Sibyl Diver, Eleanor Diver, Dorsey Bryan, Elizabeth Stinson, Lisa Diver, Kristen Diver and George Stinson; great-grandchildren Salman Agrawala, Denniston Diver, Suzanna Scott, Ellie Bryan, Charlotte Bryan, Hadley Stinson and Thomas Stinson. He delighted in playing cards with the children of all three generations.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Sunday Breakfast Mission in his honor.
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