David “Reds” F. Nilan, 78, of Kennett Square, died Thursday, July 13, at the Pocopson Home. He was the husband of Nancy Mackie Nilan who passed away in 2001, and with whom he shared 33 years of marriage.

Born in West Chester, he was the son of the late James Nilan and the late Miriam Broomhall Nilan.

Reds was a groundskeeper at Longwood Gardens for more than 35 years, retiring in 1997. After retiring from Longwood Gardens, he worked at the Chester County Courthouse in the Sheriff’s office for 10 years.

He volunteered to help clean St. Patrick’s Church and he also helped with Christmas baskets for the needy.

He was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church.

Reds was a good listener and he enjoyed gardening, watching TV, playing with his dog and cat, going out to eat, and being with his family and friends. He was an umpire for many years for the KAU Little League and he also coached for various sports. He enjoyed playing basketball with his nephews.

He is survived by two daughters, Megan M. Nilan of Kennett Square, and Tanna A. Nilan of Newport, Del., and three grandchildren, David Troy Nilan, Megan Zavala and Franklin Thompson.

He was predeceased by one sister, Patricia Konitzer, and two brothers, James and Thomas Nilan.

You are invited to visit with his family and friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, July 19, and again from 10 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 20, at the Foulk Funeral Home of West Grove, 200 Rose Hill Road, West Grove. His Mass of Christian Burial will follow at noon at St. Patrick Church, 212 Meredith Street, Kennett Square. Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Route 82, Kennett Square.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Kennett Area Community Service, 136 W. Cedar Street,  Kennett Square, PA 19348

To view his online tribute and to share a memory with his family, please visit www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com

Arrangements the Kuzo Funeral Home, Kennett Square.