MILTON, Del. - State Rep. Stell Parker Selby has resigned effective immediately after missing the entire legislative session following a major stroke this past winter. In her statement, Parker Selby referenced the growing attention to her absence. The announcement comes after continued coverage from CoastTV.
In a letter to House Speaker Melissa Minor-Brown, Selby cited a stroke in December and said she could no longer serve with the “full energy, presence, and focus” her district deserves.
It was first confirmed by CoastTV June 6 that Parker Selby suffered a major stroke over the winter. She was sworn in at home in March, nearly three months after the General Assembly convened, and a photo taken during that ceremony showing her in a wheelchair remains the only image released publicly this year. The representative would go on to miss five months of the legislative session.
Selby was first elected in 2022 and re-elected for a second term. She served on the transportation and veterans affairs committees and was known for her advocacy for underserved communities.
Nick Decerchio, a Lewes democrat who voted for Parker Selby says he still hopes a solution is found for situations like this.
"We weren't convinced they were doing the right thing, but I think we're satisfied now and happy with the result," said Decerchio.
Milton local, Kathy Marks, says she voted for Parker Selby and thought she would come back.
"I felt like just recently that she should resign because she's not helping us any, and that's too bad but she needs to work on her health," said Marks.
Milton local Larry Holding says he still has unanswered questions.
"How much farther is that going to put us behind? You know what I mean? Because now you're bringing in another face; they have to catch up with whatever's been going on," said Holding.