HCA celebrates the life of farmer Wayne “Phil” Proud
The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs (HCA) is mourning the loss of Wayne “Phil” Proud, a New Castle resident who worked the land around both the Buena Vista Conference Center and Cooch’s Bridge Historic Site for over 50 years before passing away unexpectedly this September at the age of 85.
A memorial for the lifelong farmer was held at Buena Vista Conference Center in late September and was attended by hundreds of friends, family and colleagues. Proud’s life as an active and well-respected member of the local community was celebrated with the placement of two John Deere tractors, set up by his friends and family, at the entrance to Buena Vista’s driveway.
Proud was a decorated U.S. Army veteran and an active member of the Delaware Farm Bureau whose family farming operation, Proud Farms, won the New Castle County Farm Family of the Year Award in 2008. The brilliant blooms of sunflowers he planted in the fields along the southern lanes of Dupont Highway brought joy to locals and passersby every year.
He was a bright spot around both Buena Vista and Cooch’s Bridge, and HCA staff are thankful for his years of hard work, dedication and kindness.
