by Marv Bachrad, publicity director, Dover Downs
Dover, DE — William M. Chambers, Jr., 76, former president of the Delaware State Fair which owns Harrington Raceway and one of the most popular and humble people in southern Delaware, died Nov. 19, 2011.
Mr. Chambers, a longtime harness racing supporter, was a member of the USTA, Delaware Standardbred Owners Association and the previous Cloverleaf Horsemen’s Association.
He is credited with being an active supporter of the legislation providing support of Delaware’s racing industry and Harrington and Dover Downs harness racing and Delaware Park Thoroughbred racing.
A lifelong resident of lower Delaware, Mr. Chambers served in the U.S. Army National Guard and served an active tour of duty in Germany. Following his honorable discharge in December 1958, he joined the family business founded by his father in 1915. His first duties were as a welding, auto body building and tow truck operator. He later operated Dodge and Chrysler franchises for many years.
One of his proudest moments came when he was presented a plaque by the Delaware State Police in recognition of his family business as the oldest towing company in The First State.
In 1966, Mr. Chambers was elected to the Delaware State Fair Board of Directors. He was elected its president in 1988 and served until 1996, remaining on the boards of the State Fair and Harrington Raceway. During that association, he is credited with bringing business changes to develop the State Fair and Harrington Raceway.
During his career, Mr. Chambers at one time was a Democratic Committeeman. He also was a member of the board of directors of the First National Bank of Harrington, JC Penny Bank and Felton (Del.) Bank and a number of public service causes.
In recent years, he, along with his wife, Betty, and daughter, Bonnie, bred, owned and raced horses at Delaware racetracks.
Mr. Chambers is survived by Betty, his wife and companion of 55 years; son, Jeffery; daughter, Bonnie; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
A huge crowd of friends turned out for to pay last respects at his funeral on Sunday (Nov. 27) at the Delaware State Fair.