Delores Ann Hinson

Delores Ann Hinson, lovingly known as “Lorse,” was born on July 10, 1947, in Wilmington, Delaware. A trailblazer in every sense, she embodied strength, resilience, and unwavering faith. As the eldest daughter of Isaac Hinson and Cora E. Hinson- Munson, Lorse learned early on the value of independence and perseverance.

She received her early education at Bancroft High School and later made history in the 1970s by stepping into the male-dominated field of sanitation work for the City of Wilmington. At a time when few women held such roles, Lorse not only succeeded but proved that no job was beyond her capabilities. Even when a career-ending injury altered her path, she fought and won a legal battle, further showcasing her tenacity and unwillingness to be defeated by circumstance.

Lorse was known for her bold, tomboy spirit, strong will, and infectious laughter. She never conformed to expectations and carried an undeniable presence wherever she went. In her younger years, she could often be found under “the tree” in Southbridge, surrounded by family and friends, playing cards, laughing, and embracing life’s joys. As she grew older, she took delight in life’s simple pleasures—dressing in luxurious fur coats and extravagant hats, shopping just for the thrill, and taking long drives around town. A lover of good food, she enjoyed both cooking for her loved ones and savoring a well-prepared meal.

Above all else, family was everything to Lorse. She made sure to instill valuable life lessons in her children and grandchildren, especially her granddaughters—teaching them the importance of self-sufficiency. She worked tirelessly to ensure her family was taken care of and held onto a dream for over 20 years: becoming a homeowner. When she finally achieved it, her three-bedroom townhome in New Castle, Delaware, became more than just a house—it was a testament to her perseverance, a space filled with love, and a gathering place where her children and grandchildren could always feel at home.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. A dedicated usher at Friendship Baptist Church and a committed member of Ezion Fair Baptist Church. One of her favorite scriptures was Psalm 100:1-2, which she carried in her heart: “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.”

Lorse may not have been one to sing or make a joyful noise in the traditional sense, but she lived this verse in her own way—through her resilience, her boldness, and her unwavering faith. She served her family and community not just with words but with action, standing firm in who she was, fighting for what she believed in, and never letting life’s hardships silence her. Lorse’s belief in God guided her through life’s triumphs and challenges, providing strength and comfort until the very end.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Cora E. Hinson-Munson; her father, Isaac Hinson; and her brother, Isaac “Junie” Hinson.

Lorse leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, survived by her sister, Doris “Tickle” Hinson-Mitchell; her children, Maryann E. Hinson, Theresa A. Hinson-Harvey, and her only son, Alfred “Peanut” Hinson; her grandchildren: Nicole Hinson, Naté Gordon, David Hinson, Nateara Hinson-O’Connor, Bryant Hinson, Jaleesa Hinson, Theresa Dixon, Forrest Harvey, Jacevius Dumpson, Derrick Legree, Amaree Lancaster, Al’mera Hinson, Al’zaim Hinson, Ayden Hinson, Alonna Hinson, Mana Musa Hinson, Yahseer Chambers, and Derhnya Chambers; her great-grandchildren: Jasmine Hinson, Naki Jones, Leraya Jones, Nasir Jones, Terrance Burrage, David Hinson, Damien Hinson, Rakeem Coppage, Omari O’Connor, Nia O’Connor, Nyla O’Connor, Morgan Dumpson, Jake Dumpson, and Derrick Legree Jr. She also leaves behind great-great-grandchildren Brianna Martin, Leslie Hinson, Luna Faye, and Jazelle Hinson, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

May she rest peacefully in the loving embrace of God, forever cherished in the hearts of those who loved her.