Harriet was born on November 14, 1946, she was the daughter of the late Harmon and Gladys Thompson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Nancy Panco; three nephews, and eight fur babies, Rainey, Cole, Katie, Abby Bernice, Lexie, Sophie, Ellie, and Mei Ling.

She is survived by her three sons, Craig Milby (Sherry), Todd Milby (Lori), Scott Milby (Heather); and two fur baby daughters, Coco and Maggie; two granddaughters, Alysa and Rachel; her sisters, Sharon Gamble and Sandy Hibbs, nieces and a nephew. Harriet also had a foster daughter, Mary-Ellen, who was a bright light in her life.

A proud graduate of Ridley Park High School, Harriet dedicated 24 years of service to the State of Delaware before retiring in 2004. Throughout her career, she also held numerous other roles (often two or three at a time!) with Avon, Home Interiors, toll collector on I-95, and various retail positions. While she took pride in her professional achievements, she believed her greatest accomplishment was raising her three sons, ensuring they grew to be capable, responsible individuals prepared for life’s challenges.

Harriet had a passion for gardening and crafts, including beading and ceramics, and found great joy in giving to others. She made it a priority to make Christmas and birthdays special for her loved ones. She loved to shop, but almost always came home with more for others than herself.

A fiercely loyal individual, Harriet was a vocal and passionate advocate for those in need, including animals. She viewed it as her duty to support charitable causes and regularly contributed to animal rescues and veterans’ organizations, even mailing Christmas cards to veterans, and delivering gifts to nursing home residents.

On the morning Harriet left home for a doctor’s appointment, Todd arrived to find her washing her dishes. She had more try in her than most. Two hours later, she was admitted to the ICU and forty-four days after that she would rejoin her fur babies who have crossed the rainbow bridge.

Harriet’s Graduation Party will be Saturday, May 17th between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM at her home in Dilwyn. VA. Family and friends are invited to come together to share stories, memories, love and laughter. Light fare and refreshments will be available. 

Condolences may be left with the family through Preddy Funeral Home's website - https://www.preddyfuneralhomes.com/condolences 

“Thank You!” from the family

Mom had a fine bunch of friends who have supported her through the years. We are so blessed and thankful to each of you!

Mary was her friend from the time she moved to Dilwyn. Mary and Crystal continue to help our family with care for mom’s beloved dogs, Coco and Maggie. Their wonderful gift of time allowed us precious extra hours and days with mom while in the hospital.

Ms. Elsie and Mr. Lee were very kind and helpful. They were always doing something extra for mom, whether shopping or rides to doctors’ appointments. Mom loved having coffee/cake with Ms. Elsie…and playing Uno!

Her friend Shannon enriched her life with lunch dates and shopping. Mom always glowed when she talked about her.

Dan and Sharon always helped and supported mom. The more she needed, the more their family stepped up including visits to the hospital, which our family deeply appreciated.

Mom’s friend Loreen helped mom two or three times a week over the past few years, which went a long way to help mom be happy and stay at home!

Thanks also to Pastor Alan whose visits and beautiful prayers brought us peace right up until Graduation Day!

Thank you to the doctors and nursing staff at the University of Virginia for their skilled and compassionate care!

We know there are many more wonderful people who enriched her life. We include all of you and Thank You All!

Peace and love to Harriet! And bless you all!