Rachael R. Covington

Rachael R. Covington, age 96, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away surrounded by loving family on August 1, 2020. She was the beloved wife of the late Robert (Bob) Covington and the devoted mother of two daughters (Beverly and Laura), four grandchildren, and one great granddaughter. Raised in Danville, Virginia, Rachael was the eldest daughter of Nell and Preston Richmond’s four daughters. Her memories of home were of music, Mama’s gardenias, and warm buttermilk biscuits. She had a natural ear for music that took joyfully to classical training in piano and organ. An active member of Mt. Vernon Methodist Church, Rachael provided organ accompaniment for weddings and church services. After attending Averett College, she worked as Secretary to the Comptroller at Dan River Mills. Steno pad in hand and a pencil tucked behind her ear, Rachael developed an aptitude for transcribing dictation. Her organizational skills and attention to accuracy continued until the last days of her dear life.

When Rachael met Bob it was love at first sight, blossoming into fifty years of marriage. They relocated to Wilmington due to Bob’s engineering job with The DuPont Company. Rachael devoted herself to raising a family and growing roots in a northern climate. That meant planting cold-hardy bulbs and putting chains on the tires during winter. Rachael embraced the challenge; she could handle anything. She took up golf, studied ikebana, and thoroughly enjoyed her A.A.U.W. workshops. The rich cultural heritage of the Brandywine Valley inspired her love of history and antique collection.

Rachael’s grandchildren (Nathan, Kevin, Matthew, Rachel, and great granddaughter, Alyse) were blessings in her life. Her big, expressive hugs, her sense of humor, and her gift for conversation were hallmarks of Grandma. Most importantly, in nurturing all her children, she imparted a love of learning, strength to persevere, respect for nature, and faith in the Lord.