Sidney Leon Root, age 64, of Wilmington Delaware, passed away peacefully Saturday, April 22, 2023 surrounded by his family and friends.

Sid, as he was known, was born in Oceanside, CA, on August 6, 1958. Son of the late Frances (Nicol) and Gerry Root.

He graduated from Tredyffrin-Easttown High School, Berwyn, PA in 1976, attended Art School in Pittsburgh, PA, then worked for a while as a Graphic Illustrator. He later became an Audio Engineer and IATSE Stagehand.

As a Union Statesman and Head Flyman for The Playhouse on Rodney Square in Wilmington DE, he is credited with introducing and mentoring many stagehands young and old in the technical aspects of the theatrical industry. "Train your replacements" was a popular refrain of his.

An accomplished, gregarious musician and singer, his passion drew companions and budding musicians around him like gravity. Sid was known as "Father Tuesday" for his role in creating in the late 1980s a weekly social and musical gathering of friends known only as "Tuesday", which continues to this day.

He referred to himself as the "song thief" for his cover songs, performing them beautifully and eloquently, making them his own. His CD, The Fullness of Time, was a proud bucket-list accomplishment.

At the Philadelphia Folk Festival, he volunteered on several committees - including the Q committee and later the Archives Committee. He remains on a very short list of people who volunteered there across 45 years.

Sid was abundantly wealthy in love, knowledge, and possessed a unique and inclusive giving spirit.

An avid camper and self-proclaimed hippie ("What's wrong with peace, love and happiness, anyway?" he would say), Sid loved camping with friends at the Rainbow Gathering. At this annual quest to a designated national forest, he enjoyed his time at the Lovin' Ovens campsite running the boil fire and connecting with his brothers and sisters through stories and songs.

Sid enjoyed reading, playing music, rock climbing, helping friends, teaching fight choreography at local high school theaters, setting up stages for concerts in Wilmington's public parks, or just "hanging out" with his wife, who he adored so passionately.

Sid is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, Leigh Deveres; son, Kirk Root; step-daughters, Kelly and Jessica; grandchildren, Elise and Christian; brother, Jerry Root; and numerous close family friends he all loved dearly.

A beautiful force of nature, "Sidley", the Lionhearted, will be greatly missed. "Rest In Peace my dear friend. I'll see you in my dreams." The world shone brighter and is a better place for his presence! He is and will always be sorely missed.

A celebration of life for Sidney will be held on Tuesday, May 9th, 2023, at The Playhouse on Rodney Square (his work home of 35 years) at 1007 N. Market St., Wilmington, DE 19801, starting at 5pm til…

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Sidney's name to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Kempton, PA (www.hawkmountain.org/give/donate-now).