Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Rosemary Shipp Joyce, a beloved wife, mother, and esteemed member of the Annapolis community, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025, at the age of 76. 

Born on December 23, 1948, in Washington, DC, Rosemary’s life was marked by her unwavering love for her family and her dedication to her profession as a realtor. Growing up in the vibrant city of Washington, DC, Rosemary developed a deep appreciation for the beauty and intricacies of the world around her. It was in this dynamic environment that her spirit flourished, leading her to create a life that would touch countless others. Rosemary’s journey of love and partnership began when she married Patrick Joyce, and together they shared over 55 wonderful years of marriage. Their love story included living in various cities, including Cincinnati and ultimately Annapolis, Maryland, where they made countless memories together. As a mother, Rosemary was the cornerstone of her family. 

She is survived by her loving husband, Patrick J. Joyce, as well as a devoted son,  Patrick E. Joyce, and her cherished daughter, Bridget J. Fischer. Rosemary’s legacy will continue through her family, who will forever carry her warmth, kindness, and strength in their hearts. In addition to her role as a devoted wife and mother, Rosemary was a remarkable and established realtor in Annapolis. Known for her genuine care for her clients, she always put people first, ensuring that each individual was treated with respect and understanding. Her passion for helping people find their homes was not just a career; it was a calling that she embraced wholeheartedly. Rosemary’s dedication to her profession earned her the admiration of many in the community, and her impact will be felt for years to come. Rosemary's life was a testament to resilience, love, and community. She touched the lives of everyone she met, whether through her professional endeavors or her personal connections. Her gentle spirit and compassionate nature will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

A funeral service celebrating Rosemary's life will be held on May 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Holy Family Church in Davidsonville, MD. Prior to the service, there will be a viewing at the church from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, providing friends and family an opportunity to pay their respects and share cherished memories. As we bid farewell to Rosemary Shipp Joyce, let us honor her legacy by carrying forward her love, kindness, and dedication to others. She will forever remain in our hearts, guiding us through the memories we hold dear. May she rest in peace.

Boyd William Miller, Sr. “Bill” of Edgewater, Maryland, entered eternal life on May 16, 2025, at the age of 84, surrounded by his family. Bill was born on November 21, 1940, to Eileen and Boyd Miller. He was predeceased by his two sisters, Kay Morris and Ellen Bryant.
He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of over 64 years, Delma, as well as his children, Boyd Miller, Jr. (Patricia) and David Miller (Lisa), his grandchildren, Rylee Miller, Shane Miller, Nicole Cochran, Shannon Grimard, and Kristin Buser.
Bill will be remembered as a man of faith and adventure, and one who prioritized family above all else. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather of five, great-grandfather of eight, and friend to many. Bill absolutely adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren as he shared a very special and unique relationship with each of them.
Bill pursued a professional career as a bricklayer, and later joined the Stone and Marble Mason Union in DC. He displayed his beautiful stonework and exquisite craftsmanship at the Capitol Building in Washington, DC, the World War II Memorial, the Reagan Building, and many other distinguished landmarks in Washington, DC. One of Bill’s proudest accomplishments was earning his GED at the age of 65 and walking across the stage in his cap and gown to receive his diploma on October 12, 2006. Anyone who knew Bill would say he enjoyed an intense passion for all of his hobbies and recreational lifestyle. An exceptional athlete, Bill spent endless hours riding his collection of motorcycles, hiking, running marathons, cycling, golfing, bowling, and building just about anything he set his mind to. His family knew him as a wise man living life to the absolute fullest; whilst sharing wisdom through his words, but more, often his guidance came quietly through his example.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Bill’s life on Saturday, May 31 from 10 am until his memorial service begins at 11 am at Davidsonville United Methodist Church, 819 W Central Avenue, Davidsonville, MD 21035. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bill’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online <a href="https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sl=donate-now&sc_dcm=58700008005633531&sc_cid=kwp&ds_rl=1291300&ds_rl=1285465&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17681679263&gbraid=0AAAAADuyZN4cvDUXT6onBS2MXSE0WVqrD&gclid=Cj0KCQjwiqbBBhCAARIsAJSfZkbDQlvIkEL8pfo3DOxYy0nIxwGc5wd4yTozsuhOx-T6j0bbvMiobwMaAuH6EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">here</a>).
Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather for Enrique's Life Celebration on Saturday, June 7, 2025 from 3 P.M. until 6 P.M. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745.

Edward Leo Wisenbaler, Jr., affectionately known as “Ed,” passed away peacefully in Annapolis, MD on May 15, 2025, at the age of 85.

Born on July 2, 1939, in Buffalo, NY, Ed led a life of purpose, integrity, and quiet strength. He served honorably in the U.S. Air Force for four years, a period that reflected his deep commitment to service. Following his military service, Ed completed Banking Institute courses and pursued a degree in Paralegal Studies. His professional life was devoted to both the banking and legal fields, culminating in a successful career as a banker and paralegal. He retired from Nations Bank, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and dedication.

Ed was a member of St. Anne’s Episcopal Church in Annapolis. He found joy and challenge in the game of chess, was passionate about genealogy, and loved travel and classical music. These interests reflected his intellectual curiosity and love for history, culture, and thoughtful reflection.

Ed is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Margaret Dean Wisenbaler; his sons, Edward L. Wisenbaler III and wife Stephanie, and James M. Wisenbaler Sr. and wife Kristin. He was a proud grandfather to Kayleen Rosser, James M. Wisenbaler II, Edward L. Wisenbaler IV, and Kennedy Wisenbaler, and great-grandfather to Jase and Mason Rosser. His family was the center of his life, and he cherished the time spent with each generation.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Leo Wisenbaler, Sr. and Evelyn Peora Wisenbaler.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory in Edgewater, MD. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM. Interment at Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville.

Ed will be remembered for his wisdom, quiet humor, and unwavering love for his family. His memory will live on in the lives of those he touched.

Online condolences may be offered using the Memories tab on this page.


Relatives and friends are invited to gather for Violeta's Life Celebration on Saturday, June 14, 2025 from 2 to 8 P.M. and on Sunday, June 15, 2025 from 2 to 8 P.M. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, June 16, 2025 at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7804 Livingston Rd, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Internment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 8000 Woodyard Road, Clinton, MD 20735.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Pompeia's life on Wednesday, May 21 from 2-8 PM at the KALAS Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745. A Mass of Christian burial will be offered on Thursday, May 22 at 10 AM at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7804 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745. 

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Frances Elaine Joines, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Frances peacefully departed this world on May 13, 2025, leaving behind a lifetime of love, kindness, and cherished memories.

Born on March 8, 1951, Frances lived a life devoted to family. She was the loving wife of William “Bill” Joines, with whom she shared 56 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a strong and enduring family, raising five children: Cheryl McAndrew, William (Crystal) Joines, Jr., Michelle (Bob) Kianos, Terry (Vito) DiPaola and Lee (Julie) Joines. Her love and guidance shaped the lives of her twelve grandchildren, and she was blessed with fourteen great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy.

Frances will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to family, her compassionate heart, and the warmth she extended to all who knew her. Her presence brought light into the lives of many, and her legacy of love and strength will endure through the generations she nurtured. 

Equally unforgettable was her impeccable sense of style and fashion. Whether dressed for a special occasion or simply enjoying time with loved ones, she carried herself with elegance and grace, leaving a lasting impression with her timeless charm and sophistication. Her keen eye for fashion, paired with her warm personality, made her a source of inspiration to those around her.

A celebration of Frances’s life will be held in the coming days. Family and friends will gather to honor her memory and share the countless stories of her love, wisdom, and kindness.

She will be deeply missed but never forgotten. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Wednesday, June 4 at 11 AM at St. Mary of the Mills Catholic Church, 114 St. Mary’s Place, Laurel, MD. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. James Roman Catholic Church, 3628 Rhode Island Ave, Mt Rainier, MD 20712.



JOHN BYRON HURLBURT, 81, of Fort Washington, Maryland passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025, at Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C. He was born on June 12, 1943, in Ossining, N.Y., the son of James Parker Hurlburt and Dorothy Hosford Hurlburt.

Much of his youth was spent in Vermont, where his parents both once lived and where many of his relatives continued to live. He loved to fish and hunt with uncles and cousins and even enjoyed working on their farms. Summers drew him to the family camp on Lake Champlain’s Long Point in North Ferrisburgh, Vt., where he enjoyed boating, swimming and fishing.
 
As an adult, John was the President of the Hurlburt Family Reunion for many years. He collected family memorabilia and became an expert in Hurlbut/Hurlburt Family genealogy. He pioneered a Hurlbut/Hurlburt Family website and conducted much genealogical research, which is now posted on ancestry.com.
 
In 1988 John established his own business, Motor World, with locations in Virginia and Maryland. Now consolidated at 5325 Beech Road, Suite 25, in Temple Hills, MD., owner-operated Motor World specializes in comprehensive auto repair and maintenance services, including engine, brake and transmission repairs, with priority on quality workmanship and “exceptional customer service,” backed up by a 4.5 out of 5 customer rating.
 
On January 30, 1999, John married Luz Robles Estores, who was born in Rosario, Cavite, Philippines, immigrated to the United States in June 1991and met John during worship at the Filipino American Christian Church near their home off the Indian Head Highway.
 
Besides his wife, John is survived by their daughter Phoebe Jane Hurlburt, a recent graduate of the University of Maryland Baltimore County, and their son John Wesley Hurlburt, a student there now. He is also survived by an adopted child from a previous marriage, Lynsey Hurlburt. Other survivors include his brother James Hurlburt and sister-in-law Gail Hurlburt of Hasbrouck Heights, N.J., his sister Martha Jane Hurlburt Salter of Chertsey, England, several cousins and many nieces and nephews.
 
John had a great sense of humor and loved to tell jokes. He was a friend to all.
 
The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Saturday, May 24, 2025, followed by a celebration of John’s life at 6:00 p.m. at Kalas Funeral Home, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745.
 
Family and friends are invited to celebrate John's life from 4-6 PM on Saturday, May 24th at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745. A funeral service will follow from 6-8 PM. 


With great sadness, we announce the passing of Bernice Idella Ambrose, 94, of Annapolis, MD on May 13, 2025.  She had had Lewy body dementia for eight years and was a resident at Sunrise of Annapolis.  She was born on June 25, 1930, to Harry and Alice Barron.  Bernice was the fourth of seven children.  Perhaps being the middle child helped shape her into the kind, loving, and dependable woman she became - one known for her strength, independence, and sharp sense of humor.

As a teenager, Bernice’s family relocated to a farm in Cabot, PA, where she met the love of her life, Andrew Ambrose, Jr.  Together, they raised two children, Cathryn and Dean.  Bernice was a devoted mother who rarely missed her children’s - and later her grandchildren’s - sports games, performances, and school events.  She lovingly served as a Brownie leader, Cub Scout leader, and Vacation Bible School teacher.  Her children always knew they could count on her unwavering support.

After Andrew’s passing in 1979, Bernice courageously supported herself by becoming a certified nursing assistant at Concordia Nursing Home in Cabot.  In 1987, she moved to Maryland to be closer to her daughter and continued her caregiving work at Crofton Convalescent Center.  Her innate kindness and compassion did not go unnoticed - one physician remarked the level of care she provided simply could not be taught.  In 1989, she was honored as an exemplary health care provider.

Upon retirement, Bernice became active in the Odenton Senior Center, participating in classes and enjoying many group trips.  She enjoyed traveling, gardening, reading, and solving crossword and jigsaw puzzles.  A lifelong animal lover, she provided a warm and loving home to many dogs and cats.  But her greatest joy came from her grandchildren, whose activities she continued to attend and support whenever possible.

Surviving are her daughter, Cathryn Kravitz (Frank, deceased) of Annapolis, her sister Dorothy McBride of Butler, her daughter-in-law Nancy Ambrose (Dean, deceased) of Parker, PA, three grandchildren:  Michael Kravitz (Natalie) of Leonardtown, MD, Andrew Ambrose of Butler, and Jessica Ambrose (Michael Beck) of Freedom, PA, two great-granddaughters:  McKenna Ambrose and Cora Beck, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Andrew Ambrose, Jr.; her son, Dean Ambrose; her parents; three brothers:  Manus, Tyler, and William Barron; and two sisters:  Alberta Ambrose and an infant sister.

Per her wishes, no services will be held in Maryland.  A graveside service for the family will be held this summer at St. Luke’s Lutheran Cemetery in Cabot, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (912 Killian Hill Road SW, Lilburn, GA 30047), the SPCA of Anne Arundel County, or the Butler County Humane Society.  


Victoria “Vicki” Gaynor Lerch, age 80, of Lothian, Maryland, passed away peacefully after facing a rare and aggressive form of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma with grace, strength, and quiet courage, surrounded by loved ones. Born on April 24, 1945, in New London, Connecticut, Vicki was the beloved daughter of Joseph “Joe” and Mary Gaynor and the older sister of Jim Gaynor.

Vicki obtained her degree in nursing at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD. It was there that she met her husband of almost 60 years, J.J. Bernard “Bernie” Lerch III, on a blind date—a connection that blossomed into a lifelong partnership marked by love, faith, and community.

Vicki and Bernie built their life in Lothian, where they raised two children, John J.B. “JJ” Lerch, IV of Elizabethtown, PA and Theresa Lerch Nahajzer of Sherman Oaks, CA. Vicki’s creativity and passions were ever-present: she had a deep love for music, sewing, baking, and history. These talents found expression in her work as a volunteer and later curator, at Historic London Town and Gardens, where she designed and created authentic colonial costumes and shared her historical knowledge as both a docent and docent coordinator.

A devoted member of Mount Zion United Methodist Church, Vicki served as the adult choir director for decades.  She lived a life grounded in faith and filled with music.

Vicki also supported Bernie’s service with the Ruritan Club, attending conferences by his side and contributing countless volunteer hours, including baking countless pounds of gingerbread for the Lothian Chapter’s fundraisers over the years. 
She spoiled her family with her cooking and her Christmas cookies became a cherished holiday tradition, lovingly shared with friends and family each year.

She is survived by her loving husband, Bernard, her children JJ (Jen) and Theresa (John), and her grandchildren: Abbie and Jacob Lerch, and Julian and Luka Nahajzer.

Vicki will be remembered for her warmth, her song, the strength of her faith and the way she showed love through the things she made, taught, and shared.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Mount Zion United Methodist Church,  122 Bayard Road, Lothian, MD, 20711. The family will receive visitors from 10am until 10:45am, with the service beginning at 11am. A luncheon will follow in the church social hall, all are welcome to attend. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society 1201 15th Street N.W., Suite 410 Washington, D.C. 20005. Online condolences and tributes may be made by using the memories link on the left.

Carla Helen Gramza Turner, 82, died peacefully at her home in Edgewater on May 11, 2025 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Born to the late Carl and Eveline Schammel in Baltimore, Maryland on April 19, 1943, she graduated from Glen Burnie High School in 1961. From there, she met her husband Albert Gramza, who was serving in the Navy. Once his term was up, they married on June 20, 1962 and were married for 39 years before he passed away in 2001. 

During her lifetime, she was an avid member of the Southdown Shores Community where she and Al raised their family. She was a member of the board of directors and helped organize and run countless community activities.  Carla was a parishioner of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, where she ran Bingo for numerous years. She was also a member of the Lady Lions Auxiliary Club. Carla coached a women’s softball team, a youth softball team, and in more recent years, a tee ball team for her granddaughter. 

Throughout her life, she enjoyed playing softball, tennis, bowling, golfing, camping at Assateague, and playing cards.  Carla also worked for Colonial Florist, Annapolis, for more than 15 years.

Carla’s most notable achievement was the ability to make anyone feel loved and welcomed into her family. She was known to listen, support, and laugh with everyone who knew her. This is evident in the number of non-blood family members who call her “Mom” and “Grammy”. 

After her first husband Al passed away, she was blessed to find a partner with George G. Turner Jr., of Edgewater, Maryland.  They were married on December 6, 2003.  Together, they golfed, traveled, and were snowbirds in Florida.  However, they spent most of their time together attending the countless swim meets, wrestling tournaments, football, basketball, lacrosse, volleyball and field hockey games of their grandchildren. Carla spent 11 loving years with George until his passing in 2014.

Carla is survived by her daughters, Candace Gramza Brown (Bill) and Kimberly Gramza Goodrich (Burt); her stepson, George Turner III, known as “Buddy”; her stepdaughters, Vicki Brashears (Mark), Kristine James (Bill), and Patricia Turner;   and her two bonus daughters, Dawn Walters and Heather Wood. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Ben Brashears (Briana), Lindsey Snider (John), Ian Turner, Robert Garland (Abby), Jennifer Cannon (Chris), Jessica Van Hoesen (John), Owen James, Benjamin Brown (Savana), Samuel Brown (Ashley), Hannah Brown, Abigail Brown, Robert Goodrich, Jacob Goodrich, and Alexis Goodrich. In addition, she is survived by nine great-grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to Carla's life celebration on Thursday, May 15 from 1 to 3 and again from 6 to 8 pm at Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, where her memorial service will be held on Friday, May 16 at 11 am.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122 or online <a href="https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/donate-now/">here</a>. Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

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