Delaware author and amateur historian George Luther Caley, of Smyrna, died at home on Tuesday April 19, 2005. He was 82.
George was a familiar sight at Delaware book auctions and historical events. He was a friend to everyone and was always willing to give a helping hand.
He was born on April 4, 1923 in Columbia, Pa., the son of the late John Martin Caley, and Miriam Price Caley. Mr. Caley was a 1940 graduate of Columbia (Pa.) High School, and entered Millersville State Teachers College in 1941. In 1943, he was called to service in the U.S. Army, where he was assigned to the 42nd Cavalry Squadron of the 3rd Army. He served in the European Theater of Operations during World War II. After his discharge, he returned to Millersville State, and graduated in 1948.
After teaching for a year in Pennsylvania, he moved to Delaware. He taught at schools in Kenton and Smyrna from 1949-1962. He later worked for Leeds Travelware, Clayton Tyler Refrigeration, Smyrna and the Del. Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, where he worked for a time at the State Archives, and then as a museum guide, retiring in 1988.
George had a lifelong interest in history and genealogy, and was considered the foremost authority on the history of the Smyrna-Clayton area and its residents. He was a founding member of the Duck Creek Historical Society, and a longtime president and secretary of the group. He authored four books: Duck Creek Crossroads-Smyrna, Del. 1768-1968 Postcards of Yesteryear - Del. and Elsewhere History of Asbury U.M. Church and Footprints of the Past. In addition, he held memberships in many other historical organizations in Del., Pa., and Md.
For more information, contact www.delmarvaobits.com/matthews-bryson .