Fr. D. Day!

Fr. Mathias Kumar, OSFS, with Tyler Rivera and Rich Frank, who represented Sen. Chris Coons' office, and John Gentile, who represented Congresswoman Lisa Blunt-Rochester's office, and Brian J. Ray, President, Nativity Preparatory School of Wilmington (center).

This morning, Nativity Preparatory School gathered as a community to celebrate the life and legacy of Fr. Richard R. DeLillio, OSFS.

Fr. D often said that Nativity Prep and its students were the proudest accomplishment of his ministry. Today, stories and reflections on Fr. D and his ministry were shared in an outpouring of love from the community he called family.

The ceremony opened with a heartfelt prayer led by Rev. Mathias Kumar, OSFS, parish priest at Fr. D's home parish, St. Anthony of Padua, whose words set the perfect tone for a morning of gratitude, faith, and remembrance. Tyler Rivera and Rich Frank, who represented Sen. Chris Coons' office, and John Gentile, who represented Congresswoman Lisa Blunt-Rochester's office, while both legislators cast important votes in Washington, D.C. Senator Coons sent a moving letter highlighting Fr. D’s tremendous impact on education, the Oblate community, and the world.

New Castle County Executive Marcus Henry officially proclaimed June 11, 2025, as Fr. D Day, a fitting tribute to a life lived in joyful service.

Nativity Prep President Brian Ray announced the creation of the Fr. Richard R. DeLillio, OSFS, Memorial Scholarship, which will honor three students each year — one from each of the 6th, 7th, and 8th grades — as DeLillio Scholars, chosen for their embodiment of Salesian values and spirituality, just as Fr. D lived every day.

If you’ve been inspired by Fr. D’s life, please consider making a gift to his scholarship fund so his legacy of love and opportunity can continue for generations to come.

👉 Donate here.