Adelia H. Baldwin, 81, long-time resident of Stratford Landing and Stratford Woman’s Club member, died on March 21, 2012 in Annapolis, Md. Delia was born on May 27, 1930 to Leonard E. and Mattalee Hoefgen in San Antonio, Texas. She attended Mary Baldwin College in Staunton, Va. and received a bachelor of arts in elementary education from The University of Texas at Austin. On Feb. 14, 1950, Delia met her husband-to-be, Jess Baldwin, on a blind date, and they married two years later on June 9, 1952. A consummate military wife, Delia packed, moved, and resettled her family in 18 locations, which included a tour in Nuremberg, Germany, during Jess’ 29-year U.S. Army career.

Delia was an avid birder, naturalist, and conservationist. She loved animals, and her home always included a pet, or two. She was a talented pianist, dancer, and poet, and shared her passion for the arts with her children and grandchildren. A lover of word puzzles and books, Delia was a walking encyclopedia of useful facts, always ready to learn and to teach. She loved watching all sports, especially tennis, golf, and football, rooting for the Longhorns, Navy, and the Redskins. An accomplished needle worker, seamstress, and crafter, Delia sewed costumes for school plays and annually made crafts to support the INOVA Mount Vernon Bazaar. She led scout troops and supported various booster groups through the years, volunteering countless hours in her community, church, and schools. Her family and friends celebrated Delia’s 80th birthday with a surprise party and book of memories. Her youngest grandchild called her, “My special advisor,” and she was to all her family and friends.

Mrs. Baldwin is survived by her three children — Kathye Geary (John), Lane Baldwin, and Meghan Lau (Jim) — her five grandchildren — Rob and Meredith Geary, Dominique Baldwin, and Rachel and Hannah Lau — and her niece, Nancy Kern. She is predeceased by her husband, Jess Baldwin, and her brother, Leonard E. Hoefgen, Jr. Interment will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Audubon Naturalist Society, ATTN: Development Department, 8940 Jones Mill Road, Chevy Chase, MD 20815-4799.