Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Virginia Catherine Sanford Smith “Ginger” (Age 82).
Ginger passed away peacefully at her home in Davidsonville, MD on January 22, 2021. Ginger was born on April 20, 1938 in Washington, DC and was immensely proud to be a third generation Washingtonian. She was a 1956 graduate of Anacostia High School in Washington, DC and enjoyed long lasting friendships with her Anacostia High School alum and her Broadview Baptist Church family. Ginger was an avid Scrabble enthusiast and she loved to go “2ABEACH”. She was the beloved wife of the late Homer Wiley Smith, Jr.; mother of Deborah L. (Dave) Whitaker of White Plains, MD, Dale K. Smith of Annapolis, MD and Douglas W. (Sharon) Smith of Huntingtown, MD; sister of Shirley Milloy of Bethany Beach, DE; grandmother of Danny, Lauren, Jason, Dustin, April, Troy and Corey; great-grandmother of Nolan, Charlotte, Everly, Cash, Wiley, Liana and Colt, also survived by many nieces and nephews. Per her wishes, there will be no services. Online condolences and tributes may be made by using the link on this page.

William "Billy" Wilson Lawson, 83, of Edgewater, MD passed on January 20, 2021. Billy was born on October 27, 1937 in Prince Georges County to the late John and Elise Lawson. He was a lifelong resident of South County who worked tobacco farms, was an oil truck driver for Hardesty & Monroe, a tree trimmer, and owned B&W roofing company with his brother-in-law.  In his spare time, Billy enjoyed gardening and crabbing.  In addition to his parents and siblings, Billy was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 39 years, Alice Lee Lawson. He is survived by his three children, James (Lorena) Lawson of Lothian, MD, William "Boogie" Lawson, Jr., and Linda (John) Lee Ash both of Edgewater; four grandchildren, Brooke and Jimmy Lawson, Nikki and Justin Paddy; and loving companion of more than twenty years, Lois Ward.  Billy was “Pop” to so many more and will be remembered for his open heart and home. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Billy's life on Monday, January 25, 2021 from 12pm until his service begins 2pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. Interment to follow at Hillcrest Memorial Cemetery. Condolences may be left at the link on this page.

Allen Lee, 86, a resident of Denton, MD and formerly of Odenton, MD, died on Tuesday, January 19 at Laurel Regional Hospital due to the COVID-19 virus. Born on September 3, 1934 in Annapolis, MD to the late Roland and Margaret Kelly Lee, Allen served in the US Army. He then worked as a utility operator with the City of Annapolis for many years. Allen was preceded in death by his wife, Edith Lee. He is survived by his daughter, Betty (Andrew) Neuwirth of Denton, MD; his sister, Elsie of Florida; his granddaughter, Jessie (Shawn) Benson and his great-granddaughter, Zhane Benson. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Allen's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Sunday, January 24 from 3 to 5 pm and on Monday, January 25 from 9:30 to 10:30am, with a graveside service immediately following at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens at 11 am. Condolences may be made by using the Memory Wall tab on this page.

Gail Patricia Morauer, 78, of Edgewater, MD, died on January 19, 2021, in Annapolis, following a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease. Born December 11, 1942, in Washington DC, she was a 1960 graduate of Oxon Hill High School. Gail worked as a typesetter on projects for the Naval Research Laboratory before transitioning to becoming a full-time mom. Her most cherished moments were time spent with her family. Gail was an exceptional mother, devoting herself to her sons and husband. 

An avid skier, she spent winter weekends driving the family to Seven Springs in Pennsylvania where Gail & Roy had a 2nd home. She also made multiple trips to Colorado to ski with her family. She loved any & all animals, often feeding the wildlife in her yard. She was a kind soul with a beautiful heart. She loved to laugh and everyone who met her was made better for knowing her. 

In later years, she spent every moment possible with her four grandsons - they were the center of her universe and she loved them to no end. She was our matriarch. She was the center of our family. We mourn her loss but are very grateful that she has found rest and peace. Her memory will live on thru all that knew her. Gail is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Roy Morauer; two beloved sons, David (Terri) and Ryan (Erika) Morauer; and four grandchildren, William, Charlie, Sergio, and Alex. Services will be held privately due to the pandemic. 

A celebration of Gail’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Hwy., Pasadena, MD 21122, or online at www.hospicechesapeake.org. 

Condolences may be made by using the Memory Wall tab on this page.

C. David Agee, age 73, a 38-year resident of Edgewater and previously of Lanham, MD, died January 19 at his residence. Born November 3, 1947 in Roanoke, VA, Dave’s career as a carpenter grew with time into managerial positions of the trade and he retired from the Washington Area Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO) as Assistant Superintendent, Office of Plant Maintenance. He proudly served his country in the US Army for three years, including a tour in Vietnam, being honorably discharged in 1970. 

Dave was a member of the Annapolis American Legion, Upper Marlboro Moose Club, Annapolis Fleet Reserve and the Harley Owners Group. His hobbies included spending time with his family, riding his Harley, traveling, dancing, skiing and playing poker. 

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Sharon M. Agee; son, David M. Agee of Shadyside; and brothers Bruce (Kristine) Agee of Clinton and Chris (Gaynor) Arnold of San Diego. Dave was preceded in death by his father, Macey M. Agee; his mother, Virginia Arnold; his stepfather, Walter Arnold; and two brothers, Forrest Agee and Jeff Arnold.

Relatives and friends are invited to share in the celebration of Dave’s life at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomon’s Island Road, Edgewater, on Thursday, January 28 from 4-6:30 PM, followed by a funeral service at 6:30 PM. Interment will be private. The funeral service will be livestreamed on Zoom. That can accessed here:

<a href="https://zoom.us/j/99108524758?pwd=aHZPbll0R3JlNkZrYWQwcGV1bGRVQT09">Funeral Service for C. David Agee</a>

Meeting ID: 991 0852 4758
Passcode: 543938

In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of C. David Agee may be made to UMBF, Inc. (University of Maryland, Baltimore Foundation, Inc.) in support of the Program in Transplantation. Please make checks payable to UMBF, Inc. and indicate David Agee on the memo line. Send your gift to: University of Maryland Baltimore, Office of Philanthropy Operations, 220 Arch Street, 13th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201. Please contact Pamela Lambert with any questions at <a href="mailto:plambert@som.umaryland.edu">plambert@som.umaryland.edu</a> or 410-706-0419. Additionally, gifts may be made online by clicking <a href="https://medschool-umaryland.givecorps.com/causes/16912-program-in-transplantation">HERE<

John Nicholas Vassos, 59, a resident of Montgomery County, MD, died on Monday, January 18 at his home surrounded by his family after a hard fought two year battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on November 27, 1961 in Washington, DC, to Elaine and the late Nicholas Vassos, John was a graduate of Salisbury University. He owned and operated BCE Corporation and CapX Solutions. John was a longtime member of St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Washington, D.C and he had a special relationship with St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Bethesda, MD. In addition to his mother, John is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Joan Vassos; his four children, Nicholas Vassos of Washington, DC, Erica Vassos of Rockville, MD, Luke Vassos of North Bethesda, MD and Allison (Noah) Joseph of Brookeville, MD; his sister, Katina Vassos of Washington, DC and his grandson, Boomer John Joseph. 

John embraced life with vigor and never did anything halfway. If you were his friend, he loved you forever and would do anything for you. He was known for his epic generosity and it is impossible to count the number of people and organizations he supported.

For many years many of his best times were spent coaching youth football for Olney Boys and Girls Club and White Oak Football. He loved seeing each player develop their skills while teaching them about the importance of sportsmanship and other life lessons. He embraced the players and their families and made sure every one of them knew how special they were to him. He made these organizations feel like families and not just sports teams. And he bragged until the end about his 6 Pop Warner National Championship wins! 

The beach was his most favorite place in the world and sitting on his dock at sunset with family and friends was his heaven on earth. The cornhole boards were always set up and he welcomed a good game anytime! “Johnny’s By The Bay” will remain forever in our hearts!

Many afternoons were spent with his “Greek uncles” playing cards and the stories of who cheated more are still being debated. They even terrorized the oncology ward at Sibley playing cards in the tiny infusion rooms while John waged his war against his cancer. 

He loved watching sports and there was always a game on the TV. He would even watch corn hole if there wasn’t anything else on!

To say he was proud of his kids would be a massive understatement. They will carry on his legacy of generosity, his passion for life, and his love of family and friends!

Friends are invited to celebrate John’s life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Thursday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. Due to COVID restrictions, we ask that you quickly pay your respects to allow others to enter the facility. A private funeral service will be held on Friday, January 22 at Ss. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Annapolis, MD with interment at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the <a href="https://wjacademy.giv.sh/470d">Washington Jesuit Academy</a>, c/o Advancement Office, 900 Varnum Street NE, Washington, DC 20017.

Condolences may be made by using the Memory Wall tab on this page.

Phyllis A. Rogers, 84, a resident of Annapolis, MD, died from complications of COVID-19 on January 18, 2021.  She was born on April 4, 1936 in Scranton, PA, to the late Phyllis Reid and John Harding.  Because of her gift for serving others, Phyllis worked as a registered nurse.  She enjoyed reading, bingo, and attending family events and gatherings.  Phyllis will be remembered as a dedicated mother, grandmother, and friend.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two sons, Bruce N. Rogers, Jr. and Scott Rogers; and three siblings, Michael Harding, Lucille Hoffman, and Barbara Riordan.  Phyllis is survived by her high school sweetheart and husband of 63 years, Bruce N. Rogers; two daughters, Kimberly Gauvin of Welcome, MD and Patricia Smith of Odenton, MD; a brother, Thomas Reid of Rutherford, NJ; seven grandchildren, Justin Rogers, Gregory Gauvin, Jr., Andrew Gauvin, Morgan Reid Smith, Joshua Gauvin, Tyler Rogers, and Lyndsay Rogers; and five great-grandchildren.  A celebration of Phyllis’ life will be planned when it is safe for everyone to gather.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105. Online condolences and tributes may be made by using the link on this page.  

Condolences may be made by using the Memory Wall tab on this page.

Marie Barnes Allman, a resident of Crofton, MD and previously of Kettering, MD died January 18, 2021 from complications of Alzheimer’s disease.

She born October 5, 1945 in Washington DC to the late Thomas J. and Julia Barnes. She attended Notre Dame Academy in Washington DC, and Mount Aloysius Junior College. While raising 6 children and working, she completed her BA in English at the University of Maryland, graduating in 2002.

Marie worked at Prince George’s Community College as the administrative assistant to the Vice President. She enjoyed spending time with her family and many friends. She also enjoyed her Group A Book Club, bowling with the Kettering ladies, and playing in her bridge groups.

Marie is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Bernard A. Allman, her 6 children and 8 grandchildren: Michael Patrick and his spouse Victoria Allman; Timothy and his children Fay Rose and Sean; Bernadette Allman; John and his spouse Amber and their children Kellen and Kate; Matthew and his spouse Monika and their children Maya and Kai; Thomas and his spouse Elana and their children Ella and Jacob.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 1800 Seton Dr., Crofton, MD. Interment Mount Olivet Cemetery, Washington DC. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Hwy., Pasadena, MD 21122. An online guestbook is available by visiting the link on this page.

Condolences may be made by using the Memory Wall tab on this page.

On Saturday, January 16, 2021; the beloved Husband of Erlinda Ramirez; Father of Emilio (Malou) Ramirez, Jr., Lynn (Joseph) Matundan; Sheila (John) Pozzi and Gina Caling; Brother of George and Lourdes Ramirez; Grandfather of Ericson, Erica, Emil Ray, Rachel, Aaron, Chezka, Ronnie, Emily, Kate and Will; Great-Grandfather of Ethan, Eli, Jack and Arya. 

Relatives and friends are invited to Emilio's Life Celebration on Monday, January 25 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, MD at 10 a.m. Interment Resurrection Cemetery.

Darlene R. Brown departed this life on January 16, 2021 following an illness.  Born Darlene Basile on April 26, 1948, Darlene’s father was an officer in the newly established U.S. Air Force.  She lived in many places around the world before attending Loretto Heights College in Denver, CO where she earned her B.S. Nursing degree.  Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Paul John Basile, Colonel USAF, Retired and Dorothy Dyke.  She is survived by her son, Paul J. Kafka; his wife, Jennifer; 4 grandchildren: Joshua, Jakob, Samuel and Sierra; and 3 great-grandchildren.  Darlene worked as a nurse in a civilian capacity and served as an army officer in the reserves.  Her professional career was primarily in the Washington area.  She was on the board of the National Ballet, the Board of Republican Women of Calvert County, and a member of American Legion Stallings-Williams Post 206, Chesapeake Beach.  After retiring, Darlene pursued her true vocation of art and was recognized for her paintings.  She felt close to her friends in the arts community, speaking the language of art.  

A Memorial Mass will be offered at 10AM on Saturday, February 27 at Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic Community, 1601 W. Harmony Road, Owens, MD 20736.  Inurnment will follow with military honors at the church columbarium.  Family and friends are then invited to celebrate Darlene’s life and attend a  reception at American Legion Post 206 at 3330 Chesapeake Road, Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732.  Online condolences may be offered using the Memory Wall tab above.

Please take a moment to sign the family's online guestbook by visiting the link on this page.

In loving memory of James (Jim) Henry Zimmet, beloved son, brother, and great friend, who passed away on January 15, 2021.  Born on August 15, 1963, Jim was the youngest of three children to Heini and Margit Zimmet.  This year marks the 60th anniversary of Jim’s birth.

Raised in Oxon Hill, Maryland, Jim worked in several trades upon graduating from high school.  In joining his father’s business, Jim became a master at the skill and art of plastering, gracing many Washington D.C. Victorian homes with his talented work.  As certified historic renovators, the Zimmet team was also commissioned to work on several historic sites, including the Harry S. Truman oval office in Independence, MO, and George Mason’s Gunston Hall in VA.  Jim later joined the Architects of the Capitol, bringing his plastering skills to maintaining and preserving the buildings of the Capitol campus in Washington D.C.

Jim will be remembered for his creativity, resourcefulness, and his ability to bring joy to those around him.  A man of many talents, with a contagious smile, he was loving, giving, and kind-hearted. His favorite pastimes were listening to music and playing guitar, fishing and spending time with his friends, often having them along to his favorite vacation spot, Outer Banks, NC.  He was a natural chef and loved to cook.  And no one can deny that he was a diehard Redskins fan.

As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate his life and the profound impact he had on all who knew him.  May he rest in peace, knowing that his love and influence continue to shine brightly in the lives of those he touched.

Patricia Ann Long
Mar. 25th, 1933 ~ Jan. 14, 2021 (age 87)
  
The end of an era came to pass on January 14, 2021, with the peaceful passing of Patricia Ann Long, in her home with family by her side, at the age of 87. She was born March 25, 1933, in Washington DC, to the late Willard and Mary Harrison. Beloved wife of 60 years to the late Henry F. Long, JR. “Jack”. Devoted and loving mother of Henry "Jack" (Mary Ann) Long, III, Beverly Long, Laura (Martin) Dittes, Stephanie (Donald) Patten, Brenda (David) Holson, Patricia (Richard) Stellabuto, and the late Dale (Bobbie) Long.

Grandmother of Jennifer (Ian) Kelly, Henry (Lauren) Long IV, Lindsay (Benjamin) Quilty, Tinka Long, Holly (Charles) Pelley, Heidi (Troy) Sisson, Shane (Deirdre) Hayward, Tiffany (Matt) Riley, Patricia (Steve) Hardesty, David (Katie) Holson, Jr., Brigette (Danny) Procopio, Jake (Danielle) Holson, Troy (Alicia) Holson, Trevor (Shelby) Holson, Reagan Long, Aiden Long, Jordan Stellabuto and Taylor Stellabuto. 

Great grandmother of Christopher Jr, Riley, Walter, Wesley, Henry V, Charlotte, Lily, Louis, Desmond, Dustin (DJ), Madalyn, Dylan, Frank III, Shane II, Kylie, Tyler, Haley, Summer, Steven,Jr, Chase, Joshua, Gabrielle, Alyssa, David III (Tony), Ava, Alexis, Nathan, Cash, Scarlett, Parker, and Trevor Jr. 

Patricia enjoyed golf, vacationing in Jupiter FL, and watching the Washington Redskins football and Washington Nationals baseball teams in her free time. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and her beloved cat Honey.

She was preceded in death by three sisters, Betty Harding, Doris Nowell, MaryLou Price, three children, Guy, Patrick and Patricia Long, three grandsons, Dustin Dittes, Frank Hayward Jr., Richard Stellabuto Jr., and one great granddaughter, Natalee Hayward. 

Friends may pay their respects at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd. Edgewater, MD 21037 on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, followed by a funeral at 12:30PM.   Entombment will be private.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. 


On Wednesday,  January 13, 2021 at her residence in Waldorf, MD. She was born on January 3, 1930 to the late Floyd A. Frances Bramlett. She is survived by her longtime dear friend Willard Dahl. A gravesie service will be held on Monday, January 18, 2021 at 1 p.m. at Washington National Cemetery, Suitland, MD. Please arrive at 12:45 for the service.

On Wednesday, January 13, 2021; the beloved wife of Antonio S . Quintana; mother of Dennis and Henry Quintana. Relatives and friends are invited to Pilar's Life Celebration on Saturday, January 30 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD. A memorial mass and interment will be held at later date. 

James Robert Luber, “Robbie”, a 10-year resident of Galesville, MD, died on January 13, 2021 following a drowning accident.  Born July 6, 1963, in Washington, D.C., Robbie was employed as an electrician.  He enjoyed art, cars, and loved living on his boat.  Robbie was preceded in death by his mother, Jackie Rae (Reid) Luber.  He is survived by his father, Leroy “Happy” Luber of Churchton, MD; and a brother, Dennis Luber of Odenton, MD. A graveside service will held on Friday, January 22 at 1 pm at Cedar Hill Cemetery, 4111 Pennsylvania Ave., Suitland, MD. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Galesville Fire Station, 4680 Muddy Creek Rd., Galesville, MD 20763.  Online guestbook available by visiting the link on this page.

On Wednesday, January 13, 2021 Alane passed away. 

Relatives and friends are invited to Arlane's Life Celebration on Friday, January 22 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Saturday, January 23, 2021 at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Rd., Oxon Hill, MD at 10 a.m. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. 

A viewing for Randy is on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD. from 6 to 9 p.m. The family requests that the guests pay their respects and only stay briefly to give other people a chance to pay their respects. The Funeral Service and Interment are private.

Honoria Soriano Miranda or “Nora” to those that know her, passed away on January 12, 2021, one day after her 82nd birthday. Nora was born in the Philippines, in the municipality of San Nicholas in the province of Pangasinan. She was the fourth of six children by her parents Severino Soriano (father) and Christina Framo Soriano (mother).

Her dream as a young woman was to go abroad to the United States to work as a nurse. As a graduate of Dagupan college with a degree in nursing, she made that dream come true when she was recruited by Cook County Hospital in Chicago, IL in 1966.  Soon thereafter, she met her future husband, a young U.S. Navy sailor named David Miranda. They married that same year and went on to have three children - Barton, Lisa and Judy. During her husband’s stint in the Navy, they lived in several places like Tacoma, Washington and Long Beach, California and eventually settling down in Accokeek, Maryland.

Nora would go on to have a successful 30-year career working as a registered nurse at Columbia Hospital for women in Washington, DC. She worked tirelessly to provide for her family and ensure her kids could go to college.

When she wasn’t working, Nora loved gardening and caring for her houseplants. The vegetables she grew were so plentiful that she had so many people asking if they could buy some. Nora was also a remarkable cook. Her special Chicken Adobo was so good, it became her favorite weapon in bartering.  

Nora enjoyed singing, dancing and socializing. She was warm and welcoming to everyone she met and always took the opportunity for friendly conversation. She was a devout Christian– she spent time reading her bible and attended protestant services at Andrews AFB. Finally, she valued spending time with her two grandchildren Isabel and Christine, whom she extremely adored.

In addition to her parents, Nora was preceded in death by her sister, Apolinaria and her two brothers, Ernesto and Nelson.

Nora is survived by her husband of 54 years, David Miranda and her children Barton Miranda, Lisa Baker, and Judy Miranda; her grandchildren Isabel Burick and Christine Baker; and her sisters Teodora Lagmay and Ana Soriano.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Nora’s life on Sunday, January 24th at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD. Her viewing will be from 1 to 4:30 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 4:30 p.m.  Nora will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery.


William C. Wood “Chester”, 91, a resident of Annapolis and a lifelong resident of Prince George’s County, went to be with the Lord on January 12, 2021. Chester was born on May 27, 1929 in Silver Hill, MD to the late Thomas and Linda Wood. Farming was Chester’s passion in life as he worked with his brother’s on their family farm in Upper Marlboro, MD. He was a lifelong member of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Temple Hills, MD and a member of the Farm Bureau. Chester devoted his life to his family and friends.

In addition to his parents, Chester was preceded in death by his wife, Louise Wood, one daughter Linda Sue Wood and his 10 siblings; Paul, Thomas, John, Richard, Walter, Joseph Samuel, Mary Ellen and Mildred Wood, Viola McDonald and Pauline Hayden.

Chester is survived by his girlfriend Helen Smith; his daughter Sherri Lee(Tony), of Cumberland; two stepdaughters, Phyllis Policicchio (Jim) and Lisa Lephew (Neil); two sisters; Evelyn Larsen (Jim) and Rose Marie and the late Al Long; his grandchildren Alex Passarell (Katrina), Natalie Ellison (Joe), Jonathan Connor (Jen), and Jacqueline Segura (Juan); his great-grandchildren Brendan and Brianna Passarell, Jason and Lily Ellison and Kinley and Kolton Connor; and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Chester’s life on Friday, January 15 from 2 pm to 4 pm and 6 pm to 8 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. Please note the funeral service will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, January 16, 2021 at our Oxon Hill location, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD. Interment will follow at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Online condolences may be made by visiting the link on this page.

**Please note the funeral service will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, January 16, 2021 at our Oxon Hill location**

Matthew Edward Overton was born in Los Angeles June 10, 1936.  During the war, his parents owned and operated a cattle ranch near Tehachapi, CA, where he learned how to hunt and operate a tractor, among other things.  After the war, his family moved back to Los Angeles until the family relocated to La Paz, in Baja, Mexico, in 1954.  Matthew would attend Black-Foxe Military Institute in Los Angeles, which included many notable alumni.  During the Christmas and summer breaks, he would drive the thousand miles from Los Angeles to La Paz, mostly on dirt roads, to visit his parents and sister.  Because of the time he spent in La Paz, he became fluent in Spanish, a skill which would serve him well during his many adventures driving the dirt roads of Baja.  He also became an avid sailor and skin diver.  

After graduating from Black-Foxe, he attended the University of Arizona where he completed his Associates Degree in English.  He was drafted into the Army and was honorably discharged after two years at the end of 1962.  During his time in the Army, he became a clerk typist and was a member of the “chairborn division” as he liked to call it.  His last year in the Army was spent in St. Louis where he would process all of the St. Louis Cardinal baseball players when they had to complete their two weeks of reserve duty.  He never missed an opportunity to tell anyone who would listen just how close America came to WWIII during the Cuban Missile Crisis.  

After his service in the Army, he returned to Los Angeles where he met his future wife from Denmark, Else.  During the 57 years they were married, they had a son and a daughter.  Matthew spent most of his professional career as an automobile and property claims specialist with various insurance companies in the Los Angeles area.  He loved nothing more than to go behind closed doors in a judge’s chamber and haggle over the value of a claim with a personal injury lawyer.  He lived for those moments and got to know several of the judges very well.  Even after he retired, he would be called in to help resolve highly complex insurance claims from time to time.  

After retiring, he and his wife traveled extensively, and he dedicated his time to his family, especially his grandchildren who affectionately called him “Far-Far” which is Danish for “Father’s Father.”  In 2009, Matthew and Else moved to Arnold, MD, where they became very involved in a community church, made many new friends, and did lots of local travel and road trips.  One of his favorite activities was to spend time reading books out loud to his wife.  He had a marvelous sense of humor and also had a passion for reloading and vintage firearms.  Matthew had an amazing command of the English vocabulary and instilled in both of his children the importance of keeping up to date on events, keeping an open mind, and maintaining a high standard of ethics.  He also had a passion for supporting young men who came from single parent families and loved serving as a surrogate father by getting them involved in various outdoor activities including camping trips to the Mojave Desert and Baja, Mexico.  

Matthew Edward Overton was a devoted husband, stalwart father, gentle grandfather, charismatic storyteller, and loyal friend to many. He was a man of (mostly) good and oftentimes sardonic humor, and a never-ending supply of sharp witticisms. He was a charming, charismatic gentleman with a great many adventures and unique stories to his name.  He was a man who lived for storytelling and harbored a great love of travel, crossword puzzles, and devotion to his family. He was, at times, a quiet, thoughtful, and tenderhearted soul who listened to those around him and offered his support.

Matthew is survived by his wife, two children and four grandchildren. Those who knew him will attest to the legacy he left behind.  

All services for Matthew are private.

Online condolences and tributes may be made by using the link on this page.  

Janet Poole Briggs, age 81, passed away on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 after a long illness. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Briggs. She is survived by her daughter, Sherri Washington, son, Gary Poole,  three grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, three sisters and a host of other relatives and friends. A Private Family Home Going Service will be held at the Largo Community Church, 1701 Enterprise Road, Mitchellville, MD 20721 on January 25, 2021 at 11:00 A.M.  Interment immediately following services at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 1300 Bladensburg Rd., NE, Washington, DC. 



Obituaries

Blair Mildenberg

Virginia Smith

William Lawson

Allen Lee

Gail Morauer

C. David Agee

John Vassos

Phyllis Rogers

Margaret Pastirik

Marie Allman

Emilio Ramirez

Darlene Brown

James Zimmet

Patricia Long

Frances Bramlett

Pilar Quintana

Frank Mozingo

James Luber

Arlane Samonte

Randy Mann

Honoria Miranda

William Wood

Matthew Overton

Janet Briggs