In memory of Irene and Randall Larrimore, the Larrimore Family donated a Recognition and Endowment Plaque. The top of the plaque recognizes donors to the old Seaford District Library on Hall Street, built during the 15 years Irene Larrimore served as President and also Treasurer of the Seaford Public Library Commission. The bottom of the plaque recognizes those that have helped establish an endowment to provide for future library needs.
Mr. and Mrs. Larrimore were lifelong residents of Seaford and devoted many years to serving the community. In addition to giving this memorial plaque and a donation toward the library’s endowment, their family has continued to support Seaford over the years by annually awarding the Irene F. Larrimore School Citizenship Scholarship to a deserving Seaford High School senior, and giving thousands of dollars to establish and maintain a large-print book collection at the Seaford Library in memory of Randall A. Larrimore.
Both Mr. and Mrs. Larrimore had interesting lives. Irene Larrimore died in 1976 at the age of 55 from a brain tumor after spending more than 25 years in public education. She taught English at Seaford High School before becoming the high school librarian. Before her death, she was chairperson and director-coordinator of the Seaford School District Libraries. In fact, the library at Seaford High School was subsequently named in honor of Mrs. Larrimore and features her portrait. She was also a member of the Seaford Board of Education from 1956 to 1963, serving as its president in 1963. As president, she helped initiate the construction of the current Seaford High School.
Irene was known statewide for her efforts on behalf of libraries. In addition to duties in Seaford, she served as President of the Delaware Library Association, the Delaware Library Trustees Association and the Sussex County Library Commission. She also was instrumental in bringing vocational education to Sussex County and was a charter member of the Sussex County Vocational-Technical School Board, where she served from 1960 to 1970. She was a member of the Acorn Club and many other civic associates. She also served on an Advisory Committee to Elliott Richardson, Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare from 1970 to 1973
Randall Larrimore died in 1997 at age 74 from complications from colon cancer. He was a former mayor of Seaford and was responsible for the construction of the Seaford Wastewater Treatment Plant. Randall, his father and brother-in-law ran Larrimore Dairy in Seaford for 25 years. After closing the dairy in 1971, Randall fulfilled his life-long dream of being a teacher by working at the Delaware Technical and Community College, where he became Chairman of the English Department. He also helped develop and implement the Adult Comprehensive Education Program and the journalism program at the college.
