Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Relatives and friends are invited to Sheila's Life Celebration on Monday, December 29, 2025 from 10 a.m. until the start of the funeral at 11 a.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745.  Interment to follow at National Harmony Memorial Park, 7101 Sheriff Rd., Hyattsville, MD 20785

Please check back for a full obituary.

Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Brigid Brown Cobbs of Annapolis, Maryland passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025 at the age of 70. Throughout her life, Brigid left a lasting memory on all who met her with her loving spirit and humor.
Born on December 13, 1954 in Baltimore to the late Joseph and Janice Brown, Brigid was one of four children. She was raised in Baltimore, graduated from Mercy High School, and went on to obtain her Bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s College of Maryland. 
Brigid then lived in New York City, where she began her 35+ year career as an international flight attendant, originally with PanAm and eventually Delta. It was the perfect job to complement her love of travel. Brigid traveled extensively and frequently with family and friends, visiting six of the seven continents, all but Antarctica. Traveling was one of Brigid’s greatest joys. 
Brigid returned to Maryland to live in Annapolis, where she and her then-husband, Drew, raised their daughter, Paige. She was a devoted mother, always offering comforting and honest advice. Her daughter and her friends will always remember her open-door policy, warm welcomes, and homemade, perfectly under-cooked blondies. 
Brigid was a devout Catholic and long-time parishioner at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Annapolis, where she volunteered at the parish’s Eucharistic Adoration Chapel. She will be remembered for her faith. 
Brigid is survived by her daughter, Paige; her son-in-law, Jake and her grandson, Patrick Starke all of New York, NY; her brother and sister-in-law, Daniel and Mary Brown of Eldersburg, MD and her two sisters, Kathleen Wirtz of Glen Burnie, MD and Monica Shano of Perry Hall, MD. She was also a beloved aunt, “Auntie B”, to many nieces and nephews who will carry her memory and legacy in their hearts forever. 
Mass of the Resurrection will be offered on Saturday, February 7 at 10:30 am at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 109 Duke of Gloucester St., Annapolis, MD. All who knew and loved Brigid are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to be made in her memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (online <a href="https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?frequency_selected=0&dedication=2&sc_dcm=137187318174&sc_cid=kwp&sl=give-in-honor&gclsrc=aw.ds&ds_rl=1291300&ds_rl=1285465&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17681679263&gbraid=0AAAAADuyZN76qWuucjnjDW1NtqL4TeCbl&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIwPjt5JvCkQMVsjYIBR3tzhlaEAAYASABEgKxofD_BwE">here</a>), a cause close to her heart. 
Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

Charles (“Buddy”) Henry Beavers III, a 30-year resident of Davidsonville and previously of New Carrollton, MD, died on December 10, 2025, at age 90.
Born on October 25, 1935, in Washington, DC, to the late Charles H. II and Teresa Beavers, he attended Suitland High School and later worked for the WSSC as a Construction Inspector from 1969 to 2000. He also worked for Rosecroft Raceway and the Maryland Jockey Club.
Charles loved the Washington Redskins and enjoyed horse racing and going to the gym.
He is survived by his loving wife of over 50 years, Judith Ellen (Lanham) Beavers; his children, Richard, Charles H. IV, Sharon, Lisa, and Joseph; his grandchildren, Jason, Justin, Jesse, Teressa, Casey, Adolph, Lindsay, Margaret, Edward, Elizabeth, Sophia, Mary, George, and Joseph, Jr. He is also survived by four great-grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Charles' life on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W. Central Avenue, Davidsonville, MD 21035, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens, Davidsonville, MD.

Please use the memories tab on this page to leave a message or a condolence for his family.

Donald Eugene Liff of Annapolis, MD passed peacefully on December 9, 2025, at the age of 93 due to natural causes. Born on May 3, 1932, at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, DC to the late Maurice and Dorothy Lucille Gray Liff, Don grew up in Washington, DC, attending Webb Elementary, Eliot Junior High and Eastern High School. Don was a proud member of the Navy, serving on the USS Rankin (AKA-103) and the USS Oglethorpe (AKA-100) from 1951 to 1955. Don learned to barber in the Navy and loved to say he was the only one for whom the captain removed his hat. After his navy service, he attended the District of Columbia Teacher’s College where he played on the football team. Don married Barbara Ann Clark on June 16, 1956. They raised four children in Silver Spring, MD where they were very active in St. Camillus Catholic Church. Don, Barbara, and family spent their summers at the beach in Fenwick Island, DE for more than 50 years in the bay front community of Cape Windsor, their ‘happy’ place.  They always had an open-door policy to everyone who wished to visit, including a boat ride, a few steamed crabs, lawn toys for the kids and a classic “Pop” joke that made us all laugh. After retiring from NSA in 1987, Don and Barbara moved to Heritage Harbour in Annapolis. You would find Don active in many social activities, including golf, playing Bridge, art classes, or enjoying the dances and parties held at the lodge. Don was a social person so living in a vibrant community suited him well. Don and Barbara moved to Brightview Senior Living (Annapolis) in 2022, where he became involved with their Veteran’s group, the poker club, and the choir and never missed a painting class (his favorite). While living in Annapolis, Don and Barbara were members of St. Mary’s/St. John Neumann for over 35 years.
He is survived by his children, Terrence Clark (Gail) Liff and Rosemary Anne Liff (Scott) Kirwin; his six grandchildren, James “Jay” (Sarah) Walsh, Bradley (Stephanie) Walsh, Alexandra Liff (Patrick) Small, Caitlin Liff (Daniel) Schiavo, Keegan (Shelton) Liff and Kelsey Liff; his eleven great-grandchildren, Carter, Landon and J.R. Walsh and Dean, Blair and Henley Walsh, Clark Schiavo, Ian and Nolan Small, Cecelia Hudson and Margaret Liff; his sister, Shirley C. Frye née Liff of Hernando, FL. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and their children. Donald was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Ann Liff née Clark, and his children, Donna Louise Liff (James) Walsh and Timothy Eugene (Carla) Liff. Don and Barbara were always very proud of their beautiful family. Friends are invited to celebrate Donald’s life on Friday, January 16th from 3 to 7 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd, Edgewater, MD. Mass of the Resurrection will be offered on Saturday, January 17th at 10:30 am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N Bestgate Rd, Annapolis, MD. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Donald may be made to the ALS Association at ALS.com (Georgia; in memory of Timothy E. Liff).
Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Karlie Ann Everett (nee Lamke) died on December 8, 2025, as she wished, at home in Annapolis overlooking her beloved Back Creek. Karlie was born on January 10, 1946, in New Jersey. She met her husband, Gerald, on a blind date, and they married in 1967. Together they raised their daughters Kathleen (+ Rick) and Michele (+ Loren). Karlie took care of her family while working full-time as a schoolteacher and later, an elementary school principal, and earned her master’s and doctoral degrees in education. She was employed by Anne Arundel County Public Schools for more than 30 years. After retirement, Karlie poured the love and devotion she previously shared with a school full of children into the lights of her life, her three grandchildren, Beck, Annie & Emily. Karlie was a dedicated docent at the Annearrundell County Free School and requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to the museum's steward, the Anne Arundel Retired School Personnel Association (AARSPA, 2644 Riva Road, Annapolis, MD 21401, www.aarspa.org). In addition to her husband, children, grandchildren, sons-in-law, nieces, nephews, and a full circle of extended family and friends, Karlie is survived by her brother Ken and sister Teresa. The family is planning a "Party for Karlie" on Memorial Day weekend, with steamed crabs, good food, great wine (she left us a list!), and the music she loved to dance to.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Thomas' life on Saturday, December 20 from 11 AM to 1 PM at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Edgewater, MD 21037. Burial will be private. 

Robert Rowland Jr honorably served in the United States Army, retiring at the rank of Sergeant after more than six years of dedicated service. An Infantryman, he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, serving combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. His service was distinguished by courage and professionalism, earning him the Combat Infantryman Badge, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with Arrow Head, multiple Army Good Conduct Medals, and The National Defense Ribbon, among other honors. He took great pride in serving his country and standing alongside his fellow soldiers in defense of freedom.





Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bobby's life on Tuesday, December 16, from 4 pm until 5 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD 21037

Interment with military honors will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined. We will update this page once we have confirmation of the burial date.

A complete obituary will be available soon. You can leave a message for his family by using the memories tab on this page.

Allen Joel Sacks, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, adventurer, pilot, biker, community volunteer and hero, passed away at the age of 91. 

Born in March 1934, in Chattanooga, TN, to Rose and Samuel Sacks, Allen spent his formative years in Arlington, VA, with his parents and younger sister Bernice. Active in sports and student government in junior high and high school, Allen graduated from Washington-Lee High School and later attended the University of Virginia. It was during his freshman year at UVA that Allen, a member of ROTC, noticed a fire at the ROTC Academic Building and rushed in to help, salvaging military supplies worth over $45,000 (equivalent of over $500,000 today). Shortly after, Allen was recognized for his heroics with a letter of commendation at a military parade review in his honor. 

Allen's love of aviation and motorcycles was honed when he joined the United States Air Force. He enlisted for service and trained at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas in 1952, as a member of Squadron 3705, Flight 1263. After being stationed in Bremerhaven, Germany, Allen worked with NSA breaking code. When not working, Allen enjoyed riding his newly acquired motorcycle. 

After an honorable discharge from service, Allen arrived home in Virginia and began working at his parents' men's wear store. He soon met the love of his life, Thelma Gellman, at a dance, after being introduced by a mutual friend. They married in 1957, raising three children in Bowie, MD, where they were the proud, original owners of a Levitt & Sons rancher. It was in Bowie that Allen furthered his passion for airplanes, working weekends at Freeway Airport and ultimately obtaining his private and commercial pilot's licenses and flying his cherished Ercoupe two-seater airplane. In his spare time, Allen could be seen riding his motorcycle, often with one of his children sitting behind him. Allen's other activities over the years included skydiving, bowling, and boating. 

Allen began working full-time for C&P Telephone Company, first as a lineman and ultimately working his way up to Consulting Engineer. He joined the Bowie Fire Department as a volunteer fireman and also joined several civic and aeronautic organizations, including the Lions Club and Civil Air Patrol. He rescued and assisted many people over the course of his lifetime, including saving a young man from a Bowie house fire and another man from a small airplane after a crash landing, being first at the scene of both incidents. He always seemed to be at the right place at the right time and he never hesitated to bravely rush in when needed. 

After retiring from C&P, Allen and Thelma moved to the Eastport neighborhood of Annapolis, MD. Allen enjoyed owning and operating an antiques store on Maryland Avenue (Allen's Alley) and also joined the Annapolis Police Department as an auxiliary officer. His favorite police duty was portraying McGruff the Crime Dog for several years. He also worked with Habitat for Humanity helping to build houses and collected eyeglasses for the Lions Club. Additionally, he organized turning an unused parcel of land behind the Eastport Post Office into a viable park for the community. The City of Annapolis offered to name the park after him but he asked that it be named just "Post Office Park," and had a bench dedicated to his late mother set among the flowers he planted there. 

Allen and Thelma especially enjoyed traveling, often accompanied by one or more of their grandchildren. Favorite travel locations included Greece, Alaska, Israel, Bermuda, and cruising all over the world. Allen also volunteered at the Colonial Players Theater in Annapolis and worked part-time as a bus driver for the City of Bowie Senior Center. 

Leaving cold weather behind, Allen and Thelma moved to Sarasota, FL, where Allen continued his volunteer career, working at Doctors Hospital and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and as a bus driver for a local senior housing complex. Always a motorcycle enthusiast, Allen joined the Sarasota Harley Davidson Motorcycle club (HOGS), riding his Harley in their annual Teddy Bear Run for Children's Hospital and volunteering every weekend to raise money during their weekly hotdog events. Additionally, he also volunteered as a reading tutor for local elementary schools and was on the Board of Directors of his community Home Owner's Association. Allen was also a proud volunteer at the Sarasota National Cemetery, where he assisted families of Veterans during funeral services. 

In 2019, Thelma became ill, prompting a 2020 move back to Maryland to be closer to family. Allen moved to Ginger Cove in Annapolis two years after the death of his beloved wife. At Ginger Cove, Allen joined in activities such as acting and singing on stage for the first time in a Ginger Cove production. He also enjoyed dancing and working out in the gym. Additionally, he volunteered at the site's convenience store and helped out at Ginger Cove's rehab center. 
Through his storied life, Allen, first and foremost, loved his family. He leaves behind his children Deborah (David) Cook, Michael (Susie) Sacks, Karen (Stephen) Gindes; grandchildren Corinne (Allen) Bingham, Sarah (Jon) Bergkamp, Allison (Jason) Roland, Holly Gindes, Robert (Anna) Gindes, Kelsey Sacks, Amy Sacks; six great- grandchildren; and his dear friend Carolyn Osgood. He was predeceased by his wife Thelma and sister Bernice. 

Allen never met a stranger and loved talking with everyone he came in contact with. He always gave 100% and was a friend to all. He tried to be the best at everything he did...and he was. 

A celebration of life funeral service for Allen will be held on Wednesday, December 10 at 10 AM at Ginger Cove Friendship Hall, 4000 River Crescent Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401.  Burial will be at 3 PM on Wednesday, December 10 at King David Memorial Gardens, 7482 Lee Hwy., Falls Church, VA 22042.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hospice of the Chesapeake, www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving or to the charity of your choice. 


Michael Wilmer Smith, 73, a chemist and resident of Millersville, MD for almost 40 years died at his home surrounded by his family on December 4, 2025 after a short bout with cancer. Michael was born on July 8, 1952 in Richmond, VA. Growing up, he lived in the Netherlands from ages 5 to 8, and returned to live in Edgewater. He was an Eagle Scout and liked to sail and fish as a young boy. He graduated from Washington College in Chestertown, MD with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. He later studied at Loyola College in Baltimore pursuing his master’s degree. He spent most of his 40-year career working at various pharmaceutical companies in the Baltimore area. He managed teams to formulate, analyze, and test a variety of drugs for usage in combatting many illnesses. His last full-time position was with PII (Ascendia Pharmaceuticals) in Hunt Valley. He later worked part-time as a consultant for product development in Ohio before retiring in 2010. Michael enjoyed collecting coins, taking care of his dog, learning about history, and was fascinated by outer space and UFOs. He enjoyed vacationing in Florida, Mexico, and most recently in Idaho, where two of his three grandchildren live. He was preceded in death by his wife of 36 years, Ann James, who died in 2021. He is survived by his daughter, Caitlyn Harmon (Jacob) of Pocatello, ID; his step-son, Ryan James of Glen Burnie, MD; his sister, Nancy Smith of Towson, MD, and three grandchildren, Kylee James, Hailey Harmon, and Benjamin Harmon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Maryland SCPA or Guiding Eyes for the Blind.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Michael's life on Friday, December 12 from 12:30 to 1:30 pm at Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD 21037. Interment to follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, 1911 Forest Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401.

Ocie Lee Potts was born July 12, 1949, to Otis and Minnie Fitts, in Centreville, Alabama. She was the oldest of two girls and had big dreams. Those big dreams brought her to Washington, DC where she worked for GEICO and the FBI before ultimately landing a job at Metro (WMATA). Ocie had a lot of drive, landing a job as the first black female superintendent at the Metro Bus Control Center in Washington, DC, until she retired after 30+ years. 

Ocie had a personality of gold, and she was one of those people that after meeting her you instantly fell in love with her. She loved her family dearly and spoke fondly of them often. 

She leaves many family members to cherish her memories including her son, Shawn C. Davidson (Bobbi), her sister Dianne Mitchelle (Quentin), seven grandchildren, and six great grandchildren, a special niece Michelle Brown (Kevin), three special great nieces, and a host of relatives and friends. Her beloved husband of 40+ years, Ron Potts preceded her in death in 2021.

Ocie had a circle of friends who played a major part in her life. Before and after retiring, her and her best friend Brenda Hoskin, known to all affectionately as Thelma and Louise, went on many adventures in and out of town. Her other dear girlfriends included Roberta, Delores, Linda, Bernette, Janice, Connie, Chaya, Barbara, Danetta, and Mary. Bus trips, Metro retiree reunions, and visiting many different restaurants were some of their favorite things to do.

The Potts and Davidson family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, well wishes, and sympathy during this heartfelt time.

Relatives and friends are invited to Ocie's Life Celebration on Sunday, December 21, 2025 from 2 to 4 pm. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745. A graveside service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. 



Joan Maureen Vetter, of Annapolis, MD, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025, just days after celebrating her 95th birthday with all her children. Joan was born on November 17, 1930 in Jersey City, NJ, the daughter of the late Anna and George Nolan. She is preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, William “Bill” Frank Vetter and her stepfather Henry Coyne. 

Joan is survived by her sister, Ann Reid of Stony Brook, NY, her brother Donald Coyne of Amston Lake, CT, and her five children Gerard (Kathleen) Vetter of Annapolis, MD; Thomas (Lynn) Vetter of Montgomery Village, MD; Janice (Bob Curran) Vetter of Baltimore, MD; Eileen (Nathan) Brandon of Salt Lake City, UT; and Paul (Janet) Vetter of Derwood, MD, her seven grandchildren, Drew (Tina Billiet) Vetter of Baltimore, MD; Suzanne (Andrew) Burnett of Annapolis, MD; Peggy (Jason) Dall’Acqua of Annapolis, MD; Hutton (Zoe) Brandon of Salt Lake City, UT; Nolan (Susan Fender) Brandon of Oak Harbor, WA; Lelia Vetter of Silver Spring, MD; Michael (Elizabeth) Vetter of Timomium, MD, and eight great grandchildren.

Despite losing her beloved father when she was age 7, Joan had a “wonderful childhood,” wrapped in the love of her maternal grandparents and cared for also by her mother’s two devoted sisters and their dear husbands. Joan recalls her grandmother spoiling her by allowing her to eat liverwurst sandwiches for breakfast.

Joan loved sharing family stories and memories, aptly describing herself as someone who always liked to talk and perform and stay busy. In her words, “I was never a quiet child.” Throughout her life, Joan was a faithful Catholic and credited the late Sister Eileen Marie and Sister Dolores Marie for their significant contributions to her academic and life achievements.

Joan graduated as valedictorian from Holy Rosary Academy in NJ in 1948, having earned a scholarship to attend there, and commuting to school via two different buses.

Joan was known for being a whirlwind of energy, with her strong work ethic evident even as a teenager when she helped sell newspapers at her Aunt Rose’s news stand at the NJ-NY ferry landing and also sold calendars for a funeral home. After gaining experience as a secretary at an investment firm during high school summer and holiday breaks, and attending secretarial school at night, Joan worked at Harris, Upham and Company on Wall Street, taking shorthand and typing correspondence for several brokers. While working full-time, Joan attended Hunter College.

Joan married Bill Vetter on June 30, 1951 at St. Catherine of Sienna Roman Catholic church in NY. Joan remembers their first date being at Sunken Meadow State Park in NY, accompanied by Joan’s sister, Ann, and Bill’s sister, Marian, who had conspired together to introduce the “St. Albans Girl” to the “Harvard Man” (as a 1951 Long Island Daily Press headline described the couple).

Joan and Bill lived on Long Island, NY and had five children before relocating in 1966 to Gaithersburg, MD where they lived for 25 years. They were active members of St. Martin’s Catholic Church, where Joan sang in the choir for many years.

Joan worked for Montgomery County Public Schools for 19 years, beginning as an inaugural career information technician at Poolesville High School in Poolesville, MD for four years and then directing the Career Information Center at Gaithersburg High School in Gaithersburg, MD for 15 years. Joan took pride in helping students make the right college choice and hoped she made a difference in those students’ lives.

After retiring, Joan and Bill lived in the Lake of the Woods community near Fredericksburg, VA for 15 years, and then settled at Lansdowne Woods in Lansdowne, VA for more than a decade. Joan moved to Annapolis, MD in 2021 to be near family.

Joan loved her large family, and most wanted to be remembered as a good mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and great-grandmother. She wanted her family to know how much she loved them and hoped she was a positive example to them.

The family would like to thank Joan’s caregivers at Sunrise Bay Village and Hospice of Chesapeake.

Friends are invited to celebrate Joan's life on Saturday, January 10 from 1 PM until the start of her service at 2:30 PM at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road Edgewater, MD 21037. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent in Joan Vetter's memory to Catholic Charities of Baltimore at cc-md.org or 320 Cathedral Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, or made to the charity of your choice.

Services for Bette will be private at this time. Please take a moment to leave a condolence or message for the family by using the memories tab on this page.

Marjorie “Margie” Lorraine Willett, 84, of Edgewater, Maryland, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025.

Born on September 16, 1941, in Washington, D.C., Margie was the daughter of the late James and Frances Nichols. She grew up in the Michigan Park Hills neighborhood in Hyattsville, where she developed life-long relationships with friends as close as family members. She was a proud graduate of Northwestern High School and began her career in public service shortly thereafter. Margie spent many dedicated years working for the Federal Government, often telling the numerous “carpool stories.” After retiring, she became a full-time homemaker—a role she embraced wholeheartedly.

In 1966, Margie married the love of her life, John “Sonny” Willett, and together they made Edgewater their home for the next 60 years. Their marriage was a true partnership filled with devotion, humor, and family. Sonny often joked to friends that Margie “made him Sunday dinner every night,” a testament to the care and love she poured into their home. Throughout their marriage, Margie and Sonny shared their lives with a succession of beloved Beagles—Petunia, Marigold, and Lily.

Margie’s later years were defined by her quiet strength and unwavering loyalty to those she loved. She and Sonny spent many years caring for Sonny’s mother, Maybelle .and Margie’s mother Frances. After Maybelle’s passing in 2013 and Sonny’s in 2015, Margie often spoke of how blessed she felt that Theresa and her husband, Tom, rebuilt Maybelle’s home which was next door. Theresa watched over Margie daily, providing comfort, companionship, and constant support.

Life brought challenges—most notably a house fire in 2018 that temporarily displaced her, and later the illness that ultimately took her—but Margie faced each hardship with resilience. During those years, Theresa lovingly cared for her, remaining faithfully by her side, including at the moment Margie took her final breath.

Margie is predeceased by her beloved husband John “Sonny” Willett. She is survived by her loving daughter Theresa Locke, and Theresa’s husband Tom, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Margie will forever be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, aunt, cousin, neighbor, loyal friend, and, of course, on-line shopper.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes contributions to a charity of your choice in Margie’s memory.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Margie's life on Tuesday, December 9 from 5 to 8 PM at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road Edgewater, MD 21037, where her service will be held on Wednesday, December 10 at 10 AM. Interment will follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens.

Please check back for a full obituary.

Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

Streaming Link for Bertha Jones Gray Memorial Service
<a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.youtube.com_live_ETkLZISz7W4-3Fsi-3D-5FX4aBlN9pK51UpmZ&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=QgmEUd3D0nsQGXrdfglicfSs58oHOocQ6Wug7uA7h3k&m=rLPyfLaOmtoJD9zxqOcEcrPJvwzraMQ-hhOEGkW5OaJZOsHCqec7aPQnLFD3Qv6M&s=FVcoFDYNpYvQyoWdow3xnD6WNBq_nFpMZy2KdbIckCo&e=">Bertha Jones Gray Memorial Service </a>


A smile you could hear over the phone. A presence that brightened the darkest day. A joyful laugh, paired with a nurturing hug, assured her that she loved you deeply. That was Bertha Jones Gray.

Bertha was born on March 29, 1938, in Baxley, Georgia, to the late Rev. David L. Jones, Sr., and Mrs. Alberta L. Henry Jon After a brief illness, she entered eternal rest and joined her Savior Face to face in the early morning hours of December 2025, at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, Maryland. She was 87 years old.

On November 6, 1965, Bertha married the love of her life, SFC William (Bill) Preston Gray, Sr. Their 54-year marriage is a testament to love, faith, devotion, and partnership. Together, they raised eight children. In the mid 1970’s, after returning from being stationed in Germany, they made their home in Silver Spring, Maryland, and later retired to Waycross, Georgia, in 2000. In February 2025, Bertha returned to Maryland, where she remained with her daughter Carmen until her passing.

Bertha was educated in the Appling County School System in Baxley, Georgia. After high school, she moved to Washington, DC, where she attended vocational business school and began her career as a civilian federal employee. She worked for the Small Business Administration before transitioning into journalism and public affairs at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. While earning her Public Affairs and Media Specialist certification through the Department of Defense, she wrote for The Stripe NKA The Stars and Stripes Newspaper and retired after almost 30 years of faithful federal service.

Following retirement, Bertha continued to pursue her interest in real estate, earning her Maryland & DC real estate license and working with several agencies throughout the DMV area and later in Waycross, Georgia. Even in retirement, she continued serving others, including her work as a switchboard operator at Satilla Regional Hospital, where many were comforted by her bright, soothing voice.

Bertha was a radiant light to all who knew her. She loved butterflies and often said, “Butterflies are free,” seeing them as a reflection of life lived unbound and beautiful in Christ. From an early age as a PK (preacher's kid), Bertha accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, and throughout her life, she grew steadily closer to Him through prayer, study, and faithful service. She embodied the fruit of the Spirit—love, patience, kindness, gentleness, and peace—and encouraged and uplifted all who crossed her path.

Though devoted to her work, Bertha’s greatest joy was her family. Whether supporting her husband’s military career, caring for her children, sending care packages, serving as a sports and Girl Scout mom, or nurturing extended family and friendships, she gave of herself selflessly and joyfully.

Bertha was also an active servant in her church and community. She faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher and Deaconess at Clifton Park Baptist Church in Silver Spring, Maryland, supported the American Association of the Deaf & Blind, and worked alongside The Good Samaritans Incorporated in service to those in need. Wherever she lived, she served faithfully in her place of worship, most recently as a devoted member of South Side Baptist Church in Waycross, Georgia.

One of Bertha’s greatest joys was being a founding member of the Jones–Manor–Gray Family Reunion. Planning and participating in these gatherings brought her immense happiness, and she cherished the time spent strengthening family bonds across generations and distances.

Bertha leaves to cherish her memory six beloved children and their families: daughters Teresa Gray Jones (the late David) Roanoke, Virginia; Carmen Ayanna Gray (Marcus Dominguez) of Washington, DC; Sonia Gill Clough (Roland “Chip”) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; niece and adopted daughter Juanita DeLores Taylor of Brunswick, Georgia; and sons William Preston “Billy” Gray, Jr. (Sharon) of Screven, Georgia; Dearick Jon Gray (Carrie) of Rockville, MD; and Paul Diallo Gray of Waycross, Georgia. She is also survived by her loving sisters Frances Boone, Dessie Burgess, and Harriet Johnson. Her extended siblings Emaul, Cynthia, and Tara; her sister-in-law Lula Wright; her dear friend Hanalore Buckley; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Bertha was preceded in death by her husband, Bill; her sons, Kenneth Alvin Gray and Zoltan Anthony Gray; her parents; her siblings and their spouses; and many beloved family members. Bertha’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who loved her, but one filled with the blessed hope found in Jesus Christ. More than anything, Bertha would want us to seek His love and serve Him wholeheartedly. May we honor her life by sharing the agape love, joy, laughter, compassion, a encouragement she so freely gave. We grieve—but not without hope—for we trust that we shall one day be reunited in the presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Amen and Amen!


A celebration of Bertha’s life will be held at Fort Myer Old Post Chapel on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 3pm. Interment Arlington National Cemetery.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/ETkLZISz7W4">Bertha Jones Gray Memorial Service</a>

For those attending, please arrive at Fort Myer Old Post Chapel no later than 2:00P.M. Please note you must have your own transportation as Arlington does not allow Uber/Lyfts. Anyone 16 years old or older that is planning on attending must have their government issued Real ID with them.

Attached below is the link to access the base.


<a href="https://pass.aie.army.mil/jbmhh">https://pass.aie.army.mil/jbmhh</a>


A repast will be held on base afterwards at the officer's club @ Spates Hall 214 McNair Road from 4:30-7:30 P.M.




Mary Louise “Mary Lou” Prokopchak, 78, of Harwood, MD, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday December 2, 2025. Born on August 4, 1947, in the coal-mining town of Windber, PA to the late Steve G. Beretsel (Berczel) and Mary Rakoczy Beretsel, Mary Lou was a proud coal miner’s daughter and carried that strength and resilience throughout her life. On October 26, 1968, Mary Lou married the love of her life, Michael Edward Prokopchak, in her hometown at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. As they stepped out of the church that day, snow flurries drifted around them - a memory they cherished for the rest of their lives. They honeymooned in Cape Cod before settling in Greenbelt, MD and later made Harwood their permanent home in 1977. After graduating from Windber High School in 1965, Mary Lou moved to Maryland and began a 15-year career with the U.S. Secret Service in Washington, D.C. She supported the Vice President’s security detail and later assisted in training new agents and White House guards at the USSS Training Center in Beltsville, MD. After her youngest son was born, she continued her professional life in part-time roles with Tilden Lawn Nursery and Marine Survey and Design Co. in Davidsonville, and later with the American Boat and Yacht Council in Annapolis. Mary Lou and Mike shared a lifelong love of boating. Beginning with their first 18-foot Deep-V in 1970, they trailered their boat and their boys all over the Chesapeake Bay and to the rivers and lakes of Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Virginia, and South Carolina. Their final vessel, a 46-foot Sedan Bridge, was kept at Selby Bay Yacht Club on the South River until they ended their boating adventures in 2018.A gifted gardener, Mary Lou found joy in planting flowers, trees, and shrubs, creating and nurturing the beautiful outdoor spaces that surrounded her home. She was always generous with her knowledge, offering advice and assistance to friends and neighbors on all things horticultural. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Steve E. Beretsel and her in-laws, Major Michael John (USAF, Ret.) and Edna Marie Prokopchak. Mary Lou is survived by her devoted husband, Mike; her three loving sons, Michael Christopher, Matthew Stephen, and Mark Francis (Theresa) Prokopchak who all live in the Annapolis area. She is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Christopher, Lily, and Garrett and her deceased brother’s wife, Pearl and their children, Christine, Nicole, Stephen, Michael and Patrick and their three grandchildren. Mary Lou was always there for her children, cheering them on and supporting them in all their sports and activities growing up. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Mary Lou's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Tuesday, December 9 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W. Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD on Wednesday, December 10 at 10:00 am. Mary Lou will be cremated, and her ashes will be placed in her husband Mike’s casket upon his passing, so they may rest together for eternity. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Holy Family Catholic Church, youth religious programs or to a charity of one’s choice in Mary Lou’s name. Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page. 

William J. “Skip” Reilly, III, 82, a resident of Dunkirk, MD and previously of Pawley’s Island, SC, died of natural causes on Tuesday, December 2 in Gambrills, MD. Born on July 21, 1943 in Washington, DC to the late Mary Bellina Reilly and William J. Reilly, Jr., Skip was a graduate of Bladensburg High School. He worked at the Washington Star and Washington Post newspapers in various capacities for many years. Skip was a parishioner at Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic Church and was an avid Washington Redskins fan. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Shirley Ann Redd Reilly. Skip is survived by his daughters, Gina M. (Lee) Ritter of Sunderland, MD and Angela M. (Kevin) Mattero of Deale, MD; his grandchildren, Dominic J. Mattero of Deale, MD, Brittany (Manny) Stoltzfus of Chesapeake Beach, MD, Amanda (Chris) Thompson of St. Leonard, MD and Alyssa (Tyler) Welch of West River, MD and his great-grandchildren, Arya, Adelynn, Payton, Chase and Otto. Friends are invited to celebrate Skip’s life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Monday, December 8 from 3 to 6 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 1601 W. Mount Harmony Rd., Owings, MD on Tuesday, December 9 at 11 am. Interment Lakemont Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Davidsonville, MD.

Relatives and friends are invited to Antoine's Life Celebration on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 from 10 A.M. until the start of the service at 11 A.M. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill MD 20745. 

Leslie Gwin Hunt, 77, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025. Born on July 10, 1948, to the late Kelly and Betty Gwin, Leslie grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina with her late brother Kelly Allen Gwin III. She attended Myers Park High School, Hollins College, and Northern Michigan University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. 
An accomplished painter with an exceptional eye for design, Leslie embodied elegance and sophistication in both her personal style and creative vision. She built a career in Interior Design that reflected both her creativity and her parents’ diligent work ethic. In the 1970s, she founded Inside Out Interiors in Marquette, Michigan. And in the 1980s, she brought her talents to Annapolis, Maryland where she established Annapolis Accents, a high-end finishing hardware business serving builders, architects and interior designers. During this time Leslie continued her interior design practice, Leslie Hunt Interiors which served the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area and DMV. She loved collaborating with builders, architects, and clients to create homes of beauty and distinction.
Leslie’s beautiful home was always open to friends, family, exchange students, and midshipmen. She was known for her warmth, hospitality, and unforgettable dinners and gatherings—she truly threw the best parties. 
To her daughters, Christian, Gwin, and Logan, Leslie was a best friend, encourager, teacher, and lifelong example of authenticity. She led with quiet strength and fortitude inspiring all who knew her. She taught her girls to be strong independent women and shared with them her deep love for horses, books, art, music, and design. 
Leslie is survived by her loving husband, Alfred Morton Hunt; her children, Christian Hunt, Gwin Hunt, and Logan (Mark) Hunt; her sister-in-law Cindy Gwin; her nephew Ryan (Jackie) Gwin; her niece Jenna Gwin; and her great nieces Rory and Callie Gwin. The family would like to thank Anna Mejia and Alba Viveros for the wonderful care, comfort and companionship provided to Leslie in the last years of her life.

Online condolences may be shared using the Memories tab on this page.

Robert Lee McKitrick, “Bob”, 98, of Oxon Hill, MD, passed away peacefully at his residence on December 1, 2025. 

He was born in Plain City, OH in 1927 and is the son of Graydon and Ada Schuster McKitrick. He grew up with his brother, William, helping on the family farm on Delaware County Line Road in Marysville. After he graduated from Magnetic Springs High School in 1945, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Afterward, he graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1950, then returned to the Navy as an officer. He retired from the Navy in 1972 and worked at his alma mater for six years. He then moved to Washington, D.C., where he worked for the Urban Institute, retiring in 1989. He and his wife, Mickey McKitrick, often returned to Magnetic Springs High School reunions, as well as traveled across America for Navy ship reunions.

He is survived by his wife, Mickey McKitrick; his two sons, Alan and Scott (Lisa) McKitrick; three stepchildren, Jan, Jami and Daniel (Bridget) Moss; grandchildren, Andrew “AJ” McKitrick and the late Tabitha Howden.  

Relatives and friends are invited to Bob's Life Celebration on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from 10 a.m. until the start of the funeral at 11 a.m. at Oxon Hill United Methodist Church, 6400 Livingston Rd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745.

A graveside service with Military Honors will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026 at 3 p.m. at Arlington National Cemetery, 1 Memorial Avenue, Arlington, VA 22211. Please arrive at the Administration Building at 2:15 p.m. with one's own transportation. Anyone 16 years old or older that is planning on attending must have their government issued Real Identification with them.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the <a href="https://give.tithe.ly/?locationId=12d9168e-df46-4581-b521-2d2b1071f828&giveButtonText=Give%20Online%20Now">Church</a>   Please select Memorials in the drop down menu when donating in memory of Bob. 
GO OSU BUCKEYES! 

Sneh Saini, a devout and loving woman who dedicated her life to caring and providing for her family, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025 surrounded by her children. She was 86 years old.

Sneh was born on January 5, 1939 near Lahore to her mother, Pushpa Dai Jalota and her father, Sardari Mal Kapoor. Sneh had three older sisters and an older brother, who gave her the nickname “Guddi,” or doll. Her family later moved to Hoshiarpur, India. It was in Hoshiarpur where she met the love of her life, Avtar Singh Saini, who was friends with her older brother.

Avtar and Sneh were married on April 17th, 1959, which began the adventure of their lives. Together, they had three children, Seema, Reema and Romi, and raised them in Ranchi, India. While Avtar worked engineering jobs abroad, Sneh worked as an English teacher and raised their three kids in India for the first years of their lives. Then, Sneh flew across the world with Seema, Reema and Romi to join her husband in the United States in 1970. The family of five eventually settled in a quaint white house in Parma, Ohio.

Sneh enjoyed cooking and often hosted friends and family. She loved music, especially singing and used to sing on the radio in her younger years. Her kids and grandkids remember her “fun side,” from playing outside with them as children to playing cards after dinner. Her faith was also an important part of her life: Sneh prayed often and fasted weekly.

Throughout their lives, Sneh and Avtar traveled the world. They saw the mountains in Alaska, the Canadian Rockies and toured across Europe among several places in the world. When their children were growing up, they took them around the United States to see the country together.

Later in life, Sneh became a loving grandmother to five grandchildren and two great grandchildren who she enjoyed spending time with. At the end of her life, she reminisced about her favorite family memories with each of her grandchildren and children.

Sneh is survived by her children and their spouses; Seema and Nitin Timble, Reema and Dan Ruberg, Romi and Anju Saini, as well as her grandchildren; Hersha Timble, Sahil Saini, Sonia Saini, Sara Ruberg, Kenneth Ruberg and his wife, Mollie Ruberg. Her great grandchildren are Waylon and Rose Ruberg, and soon-to-be Nora Ruberg.

Sneh is pre-deceased by her parents, her three sisters and brother; Sita, Santosh, Junak and Khero, and her husband.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Sneh’s life on Saturday, December 6 at 9 a.m. at Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD 21037.

Om Sadgati.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association (P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011 or online <a href="https://www.alz.org/get-involved-now/donate?form=FUNXAHXKQNE">here</a>) or the American Cancer Society (P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or online <a href="https://donate.cancer.org/?campaign=honormemorialmenu">here</a>).


Gilbert (Gil), brother of Rosemary, John, George, and Carl (deceased) ascended from this world on November 30, 2025. Gilbert, son of George W. Dobbs Jr. and Rose (Wastaferro) J. Dobbs of Oxon Hill, MD had unselfishly dedicated his life to being a support figure for his extended family.

Even though Gil acquired a lifelong disability at an early age, he graduated high school. He found to be skilled at assisting with many family projects and became quite good at restoring furniture, creating art, and taking many hours acquiring “treasures” from thrift stores for the family homes. In his earlier years, he was considered a real artist, especially in producing portraits. One of Gilbert’s most significant accomplishments was to care for his parents all the way through their passing in 1989 and 1996.   

Those who knew “Gil” also know he was the biggest baseball fan, ever. At an early age, he brought his brothers to the Senator games at RFK stadium.  He was a regular at EVERY Washington National’s  game in D.C.  He loved collecting foul balls, bobble-head give-aways, and acquiring an impressive array of Nationals paraphernalia. 

Gilbert was loved by his nieces and nephews as they were always pleasantly surprised with his frequent visits and gifts…

Gilbert is survived by his sister Rosemary and his two brothers John and George.


Kathleen Marie Lawrence Duffy, known as “Smoochie” to her college friends, 74, a 37-year resident of Davidsonville, MD and previously of Long Island, NY, passed away November 27, 2025 after a five-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born on October 26, 1951 in Glen Cove, NY to the late Lewis and Miriam Lawrence, Kathleen graduated from Our Lady of Mercy Academy in Syosset, NY in 1969 before receiving her B.S. from Mt. St. Vincent College in the Bronx, NY in 1973. She went on to establish a career as a Medical Technologist with St. Francis Hospital in NY, then started her own laboratory serving local medical practices and hospitals on Long Island.

After moving to Maryland with her husband Dennis, Kathy worked in education as well as retail.  Her personable and outgoing nature often led to chatting-up, if not out-right befriending, people in her checkout line, much to the consternation of managers.  Substituting for Anne Arundel County public schools gave her the opportunity to provide relief for teachers in need of a break, especially on a long-term basis.  She could often be found in the Art room of Davidsonville Elementary, and in the classrooms of Central Special.

Kathleen was a devoted parishioner at Holy Family Catholic Church for decades.  She started the daycare program for the parish, as well as the annual blood drive.  Kathy also worked tirelessly for those in need; as a driving force for the parish’s relief program for inmates of Jessup prison, collections for the Lighthouse Shelter in Annapolis, and activities for the winter relief homeless shelter program.  On multiple occasions she opened her home to teenagers escaping abusive situations and provided safety and security for extended periods.  She once hired a private detective to find the birth mother of a young pregnant runaway and was able to reunite them in time for the delivery.

Kathleen had a great passion for singing and was in the choir from pre-school through college, and most-affectionately with Holy Family.  Singing the midnight mass on Christmas Eve with her friends in the choir was a highlight for her and something she prepared for all year.  As her four children grew up and demanded less of her time and spiritual guidance, Kathy was able to focus on her own spirituality; participating weekly in Nocturnal Adoration, retreats, Bible study, and even joining the Secular Fransciscan Order (SFO) in 2008. 

In addition to her parents, Kathleen was preceded in death by her brothers, Kevin Lawrence (Alice) of Nashville, TN and Keith Lawrence of Philadelphia, PA. She is survived by her husband of over 51 years, Dennis Duffy; her children, Lynne (Paul) of Reisterstown, MD, Matthew (Lizzie) of Washington, DC, Chris (Laurel) of Baltimore, MD, and Erin of Davidsonville, MD; her brother, Kenneth (Anne) Lawrence of Tijeras, NM; her grandson Wyatt Duffy, and her adopted grandson Artem Kalmykov of Ukraine.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Kathleen’s life on Wednesday, December 10 from 4 to 7 pm at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W Central Avenue, Davidsonville, MD, where a Memorial Mass will be held the following day, Thursday, December 11 at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association (P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023), to an Alzheimer’s research organization of your choice, or to a local food bank or homeless shelter or a non-profit of your choice.



Obituaries

Sheila Smith

William Hogan

Brigid Cobbs

Charles Beavers, III

Donald Liff

Karlie Everett

Thomas Campbell

Robert "Bobby" Rowland, Jr.

Allen Sacks

Michael Smith

Ocie Potts

Joan Vetter

Elizabeth Stevens

Marjorie Willett

Frederick Dean, Jr.

Bertha Gray

Mary Lou Prokopchak

William "Skip" Reilly, III

Antoine Whitney

Leslie Hunt

LCDR Robert McKitrick, USN(Ret.)

Sneh Saini

Gilbert Dobbs

Kathleen Duffy