Delores Nason McBroome died Dec. 16, 2024, peacefully in her home. Born July 2, 1948, to Jean and Harold Nason, Delores was the youngest and only daughter of two children. And of course, brilliant!

She graduated in the top 10 percent in her class from Eureka High School in 1966, earning the Bank of America award. She earned her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees at what was then Humboldt State College. In 1976 Delores began her stellar career at Humboldt State University as a part-time lecturer in the History Department. Within a few years, she was also appointed to the position of secretary of the History Department. While working full time as department secretary and teaching as a part-time lecturer, she pursued her doctorate at the University of Oregon (Go Ducks!)

In 1991, she was awarded her Ph.D and received her tenure-track faculty appointment in the Department of History at Humboldt State University. (Did we say she was brilliant or what?). Her first field was American History, with specialties in California history, labor history and teacher preparation. During her academic career she served as the history department chair and as program leader for Women’s Studies. She also directed the History Day Project for many years. She was the History Department’s representative to the American Indian Civics Project and had many connections with local schools and teachers. All this was just the tip of the iceberg as to the depths of her brilliance. Yes, she taught them all! And was loved by contemporaries, many whom she loved, or respected, in return. She retired at the rank of professor in 2009, but never lost her love of history or reading.

She was a devout Catholic. Confirmed at St Bernard’s Church the age of 14, she carried on her love of church, and caring for others daily. She loved cooking and, of course, creating food, pastries and cookies, which fed her masses and was shared by all those who knew her, especially her friends, who would spend hours laughing and gossiping over coffee, tea and sweets. Cooking with Grandma Dee was a common occurrence, as was a phone call to share a fun new recipe or creative dish. She always had a ready smile, story and laugh to share.

She was married to William McBroome Sr. on June 7, 1981, and in doing so inherited a passel of children. She is survived by her 8 stepchildren, 16 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, and if you want names, we will add four paragraphs here!!

Her memorial will be held at St Bernard’s church on January 25, at 10:30 a.m. (615 H St., Eureka). A reception will be held at the Masonic Hall, second floor, after the service, with light refreshments for any who wish to attend. The address is 517 G Street Eureka.

She is now with her husband, William McBroome Sr., and know she is at peace.

In lieu of flowers, any donations may be given to St Bernard’s church, where she was beloved member of the congregation.