Lila Delk

Lila Belle Baker Delk, age 93, of Garden City, South Carolina died peacefully October 1, 2016 at Hope Arbor Assisted Living in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Born in Sumter County, South Carolina,

Lila was preceded in death by: her parents, Frank and Mae Hatfield Baker; eleven brothers and sisters; her husband, Harold Knute Delk; her son, Douglas Baker Delk; and, her longtime caregiver and friend, Denise Wright. Because Lila requested that her body be donated for research, a Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.

She is survived by her two sons: Dean (Becky) Delk of Chapel Hill, Tennessee and David (Bobbi) Delk of Surfside Beach, South Carolina; one brother, Tom (Thelma) Baker of Pinewood, South Carolina; six grandchildren: Donna Delk Brannon, Scott (Beth) Delk, David (Larissa) Delk, Rebecca (Anthony) Gilley, Ashley Delk and Erin Delk; and six great grandchildren.

Lila received her bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina. She was the first female magistrate in the state of South Carolina appointed by the late Governor Strom Thurmond in October, 1950. She served many years as a South Carolina Girls’ State director. Following her many years as an educator in South Carolina and Florida, Lila and Knute later retired as Branch Managers from Field Enterprise Educational Corporation. Lila received numerous sales awards, including the corporation’s highest awards, the President’s Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award. Following retirement in 1982, Garden City Beach, South Carolina became home for Lila and Knute. Wonderful memories were made from the many tourists they affectionately called friends. Lila was a member of the Garden City Baptist Church.

A true Gamecock at heart, Lila lived life to the fullest. Being in her presence brought a smile to everyone’s face. She was passionate about her family, her friends, and her faith. Heaven has certainly gained a special, “lipstick, crazy hat, sunglasses” wearing, vivacious angel.

Memorial donations may be made to Forrest School Athletic Program, Delk-Henson Intermediate School, Chapel Hill Elementary School Library or to a charity of your ch