Benjamin Joseph Harte, Jr.

Published On: September 24, 2026Categories: OBITS, OBITS - LAUREL, OBITS - SEAFORD

Benjamin Joseph Harte, Jr., of Millsboro, passed away surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on Nov. 8, 1942, in Salisbury, Maryland, Benjamin was the son of the late Benjamin Joseph Harte, Sr. and Mabel Mary (Walls) Harte. He was a proud graduate of Delmar High School, class of 1961.

Following high school, Benjamin was drafted and joined the National Guard, where he proudly served for six years. He continued his education at the University of Delaware and later attended Salisbury University.

Benjamin dedicated his working life to the telephone industry. Beginning his career with the telephone company in 1966, he spent nearly four decades serving in the field before retiring after 39 years of employment as a central office technician.

Benjamin was a man of many interests and passions. He enjoyed HAM radio, photography, gardening, computers, music, and the arts. He especially loved listening to musical instruments and could often be found with the radio on. He possessed a curious mind and enjoyed talking about politics, outer space, history, and pop culture. Talkative, passionate, and sensitive, Benjamin had a genuine appreciation for learning, conversation, and the world around him.

Above all, Benjamin was devoted to his family. He shared 60 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Sharon Lee Harte, who was the love of his life and remained by his side throughout their many years together.

In addition to his wife, Sharon, Benjamin is survived by his daughter, Katherine Kudzma; her husband, David; his grandson, Simon Kudzma; his daughter, Marcella Harte Conlon; her husband, Patrick; his sister, Frances LeCates and her husband, Jimmy; his nephew, Jamie LeCates; and his wife, Jenn. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew and loved him.

In keeping with Benjamin’s wishes, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

May he rest peacefully, with the radio playing and his family close in heart.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Watson Funeral Home, 211 Washington Street, Millsboro, DE 19966, where friends may call beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will follow services at Line Cemetery, Delmar, DE.

“Those unable to attend the services in person are invited to join the services via live stream at:

https://www.watsonfh.com/obituaries/benjamin-harte”.

Please visit Benjamin’s Life Memorial Webpage and sign his online guestbook at www.watsonfh.com.

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