Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Antonio “Tony” Poblete was born in Naic, Cavite, Philippines on June 25, 1935, to Epifanio and Isabel Poblete. He joined the United States Navy in 1961 where he served for 30 years. He retired on March 1, 1991, at the rank of Chief Petty Officer. During his military service he worked at the White House where he served under Presidents Nixon, Ford, and Carter. He was also a proud Vietnam Veteran. After he retired from the U.S. Navy he worked for the U.S. Secret Service as a  Master Special Officer in the Special Services Division, serving under Presidents Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Clinton. He retired in December 1999.

Tony married Eva Serrano on October 15, 1966, and they have 5 children. Tony
was a sociable man and once you got him talking, he would make you smile and
laugh with his jokes. He was an active member of the church at Bolling Air Force
Base where he enjoyed volunteering and helping prepare the church before mass.
He loved exercising, eating out with his family and spending time with his
grandchildren.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents Epifanio and Isabel, his brothers
Herminio and Emmanuel, and his sister, Leticia. He is survived by his wife of 57
years, Eva; his five children, Dion (Leti); Donn; Lani; Anthony (Cynthia) and Ivan
(Jayselle); and his seven loving grandchildren, Nicholas, Malia, Nathan, Marissa,
Ellery, Madelyn, and Veda. He is also survived by his sister Ermelinda Paradero,
along with many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, April 5, at 10:30 am at St. Columba
Catholic Church, 7804 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Interment will take
place at Arlington National Cemetery on Tuesday, July 30th at 2:00 PM. Please arrive 45 minutes early and bring a government-issued ID.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Archdiocese for the Military Services: https://donate.milarch.org/page/82467/donate/1/

BORN: OCTOBER 18, 1939
PROFESSED: NOVEMBER 7, 1963
ORDAINED: JUNE 5, 1969
DIED: APRIL 1, 2024

Fr. Eugene Matthew Rzeczkowski, O.P., was born on October 18, 1939 in Central Falls, RI, the son of Eugene Ludwig and Bernice (née Pipka) Rzeczkowski. He was baptized on February 8, 1942 at St. Thomas’ Church in Providence, RI, and attended grammar schools in Rhode Island and Maryland, ending with St. Thomas the Apostle School in Washington DC. He graduated from Archbishop Carroll High School in Washington in 1957 and from Providence College in 1961. After a year of study as a Fulbright Scholar in Physics at Technische Hochschule in Munich, Germany, he entered the novitiate at St. Joseph Priory in Somerset, OH in 1962, receiving the religious name Matthew.

Fr. Rzeczkowski made his first profession on November 7, 1963, and went on to St. Stephen Priory in Dover, MA, to study Philosophy, receiving his MA in 1966. He studied Theology at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC, making his solemn profession in 1966 and receiving his Licentiate in Sacred Theology in 1970. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 5, 1969 at St. Dominic’s Church in Washington, DC, by Most Rev. Edward John Herrmann, Auxiliary Bishop of Washington.

Fr. Rzeczkowski’s first assignment was to Ohio Dominican College in Columbus, OH in 1970 to serve as chaplain and instructor in Theology. In 1973, he returned to Washington to study Library Science at Catholic University, obtaining his M.S, in 1974 and serving as Assistant Librarian at Dominican House of Studies until 1983. Fr. Rzeczkowski returned to Columbus, OH from 1983-85 to work as theology librarian at the Pontifical College Josephinum, and then back to Washington, DC to be managing editor of The Thomist and business manager of the library from 1985-97, when he was appointed Archivist of the Apostolic Nunciature. In 2000, Fr. Rzeczkowski left the Nunciature in order to work again in the Library of the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception. Among the many thousands of books that he read or ordered, shelved and even reshelved was his own translation of Jacek Salij’s “Dominican Legends: A Cloud of Witnesses from Poland.”  This was published in 2008.  We pray that Father Matthew is among that cloud of witnesses today!

Wake begins at 7:00pm on Friday evening at Saint Dominic’ Church, 630 E Street, SW, Washington, DC,.  The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday morning at 10:30am with burial at Mount Olivet Cemetery to follow at Noon.


Gary Wilmer Christopher, 73, of Edgewater Md. died peacefully in his sleep on March 31, 2024 from complications of Parkinson’s Disease.  Gary was devoted to his family, Orioles baseball and Carolina basketball.  He was a croquet enthusiast, occasional journalist, saxophone player, hobby genealogist, amateur actor, once aspiring pastor and an attorney who was instrumental in abolishing 375 years of capital punishment in the State of Maryland.

Gary was born on April 5, 1950 in Easton Md and grew up on his beloved Eastern Shore in Federalsburg.  He graduated from Colonel Richardson High School, and went on to earn an English degree from North Carolina Wesleyan University and a law degree from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

Upon graduation, Gary clerked for Judge Marvin H. Smith of the Maryland Court of Appeals (now Supreme Court) and then spent 35 years as a state and federal public defender in Anne Arundel County and Baltimore City.  Though not his direct client, Gary’s interventions on behalf of Kirk Bloodsworth led to Bloodsworth’s eventual release from prison and not-guilty finding after becoming the first person on death row in the United States exonerated by DNA evidence.  Gary participated on numerous commissions and task forces.  Among those was an appointment by Governor William Donald Schaeffer to the 1993 Commission on the Death Penalty, which recommended further study into the causes of the racial disparities in Maryland’s administration of the death penalty.  In the waning years of capital punishment in Maryland, he represented the last person executed by the State of Maryland, Wesley Baker.  Gary’s decades of advocacy for his clients and for a fairer justice system helped lead to Maryland becoming the 18th state to abolish the death penalty in 2013.

As taxing as it could be at times to be a public defender, Gary made sure to be at his best outside of the courtroom with his family, friends and colleagues.  He would often say that you cannot judge a person by the worst day of their life.  His mentality as a public defender and his Unitarian Universalist faith required an unwavering belief that each person has inherent worth and dignity, a principle his children have adopted.

Gary shared his unique blend of kindness, generosity and unending curiosity with everyone around him.  He researched and wrote the definitive history of his wife’s family genealogy and history primarily in Maryland dating back to the 1640’s.  He coached youth baseball and for years administered an NCAA basketball tournament pool (for fun only) for dozens, including lawyers and some judges across the state.

After retiring from the Federal Public Defender’s office in 2015, he maintained a small solo practice for a few years, traveled, gardened, made ambitious family dinners, rediscovered the saxophone and took up boxing.  He was always up for fishing with his brother-in-law in the waters of Anne Arundel County and the Northern Neck of Virginia where they had secret spots where the rockfish were always running.  He never hesitated to be there for his grandchildren, whether it was an unexpected school snow day or a week of Camp PopPop hunting for shark’s teeth at Calvert Cliffs.

Gary is survived by his wife of 41 years, Margaret Evelyn Spurgin, their children, Rebecca Christopher (Kevin Hilgers) of Mt. Ranier Md and Ben Christopher (Jessica Deardorff) of Baltimore; five grandchildren, August, Maeve, River, Eloise and Charlie; sister Kate Mitchell of Baltimore and brothers David Christopher of Baltimore and Bill Christopher of East New Market.  He was predeceased by his parents Jack Christopher and Clara Mae Morris Woodman and brother John Christopher.

The family is immensely grateful for the compassionate care he received the past two years at BrightView South River.  A memorial service is scheduled for May 19, 2024 at 2:00 PM at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis, 333 Dubois Rd., Annapolis MD.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis or <a href="https://secure3.convio.net/prkorg/site/Donation2?10243.donation=form1&df_id=10243&mfc_pref=T">The Parkinson’s Foundation</a>.

Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on the left side of this page.

Deborah S. Tipton, 72, a 37-year resident of Davidsonville, MD, peacefully passed away at home on March 29, 2024, after a long battle with cancer. Deborah had a lifelong love for horses and was a barrel racer. She was also a dog groomer and breeder of Cocker Spaniels and Pomeranians. Deborah loved working in her yard and spending time with her family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clifton R. Ward, and Eleanor B. Farmer, and a brother, Edward Ward of Edgewater, MD. Deborah is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, William C. Tipton; two children, Shawn Tipton of Goldsboro, MD, and Michelle Koester of Edgewater, MD; a sister, Barbara Longo of Shady Side, MD; and three grandchildren, Hunter W. Koester, Austin W. Tipton, and Samantha B. Tipton. Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Debbie’s life on Wednesday, April 3 from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD, where a funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 4 at 10 am. Interment Lakemont Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

John Placido of Riva, MD passed away suddenly at home on Good Friday, March 29, 2024. The after-effects of Covid, which he contracted in December of 2020, contributed to his early death. Born on October 19, 1967 in La Plata, MD to Joan L. and the late Dr. Daniel J. Placido, John spent his formative years in Oxon Hill and as a teenager moved with his family to Davidsonville. He graduated from Queen Anne Episcopal High School in Upper Marlboro and then went on to study at Mt. St. Mary's College and the University of Maryland at College Park. His varied career as an award winning sales professional began in a small marine supply shop in Annapolis which brought him to his final destination with Donavan Marine. John's territory stretched from the coast of New Jersey to Virginia Beach. As a young boy of five, he was as adept as an adult in launching a fishing boat. At age 14, he was offered a summer job as an instructor at the Rehoboth Beach Sailing School and at 16, towed a large powerboat across the Chesapeake Bay. He was a gifted tennis player, a skilled skier and ski instructor and a lover of the sea. But his greatest treasures in life were his two beloved children that brought him unending joy. In addition to his mom, John is survived by his children, Laney McKensie and John D. Maxwell Placido; his sister, Susan D. Placido; his girlfriend, Debra Fayre Bayly all of MD; his cousins, Phillip and Paul Dengler, Erika Pearson of NJ and Sister Mary Clare of Kansas City, MO. A Requiem Mass will be celebrated at All Hallows Episcopal Chapel, 864 W. Central Avenue, Davidsonville, MD, on Saturday, April 6 at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Charles County Children’s Aid Society, 3000 Huntington Circle, Waldorf, Md. 20602. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Evelyn “Ev” Alexander Riddle passed away at the age of 101 on March 28, 2024 in Strasburg, VA.  Born on March 22, 1923 in Washington, DC to the late Minnie and Walter Alexander, Sr., Ev was one of four children.  She was raised, educated and married in Hyattsville where she also raised her own family and lived almost all her life.  Ev pursued a lifetime vocation as a wife and mother, making a comfortable home for her husband and sons and supporting them in all their endeavors.  She later became a grandmother to three generations.  She cherished her family and they brought her the greatest joy.  Ev also enjoyed traveling and gardening and being a member of Saint Mark‘s Episcopal Church.  

Ev was preceded in death by her loving husband of 70 years, Don E. Riddle, Sr. and her son, Don E. Riddle, Jr. both of whom died in 2011; her brother, Walter Alexander; her sisters, Margaret Davis and Miriam Brauner; and two granddaughters, Cheryl and Emily Riddle.  She is survived by her son, Gerald L. Riddle, Sr. of White Post, VA; three grandsons, Brian Riddle of Davidsonville, MD, Gerald L. (Katherine) Riddle, Jr. of Winchester, VA and Christopher Garner, also of Maryland; and three granddaughters, April (Joe) Plaugher of Strasburg, VA, Laura (Gary) Phillips of Maurertown, VA and Quinn Riddle of Denver, CO, and her daughter-in-law, Laura Riddle.  Eve is also survived by 14 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to celebrate Ev’s life with her family on Friday, April 5 from 4 to 6 PM at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD 21037 where Eve’s funeral service will be held at 9:30 AM on Saturday, April 6.  Burial will follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville.

Online condolences may be offered using the Memories link on this page.

 





Betty LaRue Robins née Barnum, 76, a longtime resident of Bowie, MD, and previously of North Yorkshire, England, died of Alzheimer's disease on March 28, 2024, at LaCasa Assisted Living in Annapolis, MD.

Born January 11, 1948, in Oklahoma City, OK, Betty received her bachelor's and master's degrees in education from the University of Oklahoma. Throughout her teaching career, she was employed with Anne Arundel Public Schools and the Department of Defense Dependents Schools. Betty was a member of Weems Creek Baptist Church in Annapolis and the Teachers Association of Anne Arundel County (TAAAC). She enjoyed needle crafts and traveling internationally.

Betty is survived by her devoted husband, James P. Robins; two daughters, Monica Mewshaw of Arnold, MD and Kimberly Dressler of Robbinsville, NJ; three siblings, Eugene Barnum of Houston, TX, Thomas Barnum of Norman, OK, and Marsha Thagard of Broken Arrow, OK; and four grandchildren, Nathan C. and Aubrey E. Dressler of Robbinsville, NJ, and Caden J. and Blake Mewshaw of Arnold, MD.


Family and friends are invited to celebrate Betty's life on Sunday, April 7, 2024, from 1 pm to 3 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, Maryland. A funeral service will be held on Monday, April 8, 2024, at 12 pm at Weems Creek Baptist Church, 600 N. Bestgate Rd., Annapolis, MD 21401. Interment will follow at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville, Maryland.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association,225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601, or online  <a href = "https://act.alz.org/site/Donation2?df_id=51079&51079.donation=form1&mfc_pref=T&utm_source=google&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=giving_google&s_subsrc=giving_google&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2a6wBhCVARIsABPeH1uoRJzA0mkHIxLKKfVZXrPWbMYUewFxcU-zjwmN-UG78d0LTkbSaLMaAo0HEALw_wcB">Here</a>

Eric, also lovingly referred to as “Baby Brother” by his family, was the son of the late Paul Darden, Sr. and the late Lela Mae Darden. He was born on December 27, 1959, in Snow Hill, N.C. and was the youngest of seven children. 

Eric joined Washington Branch Free Will Baptist Church at an early age where he was very active. He was educated in the North Carolina Greene County School System.

He was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force through the ROTC Program at North Carolina A&T State University, in Greensboro, N.C. Upon graduation he was assigned as a Missile Operations Officer with 351st SMW, 510th SMS at Whiteman Air Force Base, Knob Nobster, MO. While there, he received the Air Force commendation medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Combat Readiness Medal, Airforce Longevity Service Award Medal, and the Air Force Training Ribbon. He was also selected to attend a Squadron Officers School in Residence at Maxwell AFB, Alabama. After completion of his initial assignment in 1987, he was reassigned to the Air Force ROTC Detachment 130, Howard University, Washington, D.C. where he was an assistant professor of Aerospace Studies. While there he was selected for Regular Air Force. Eric earned a BS from A&T State University and a MBA from the University of Missouri-Columbia.

While at Howard University, Eric reunited with the love of his life, Jeanette Ward whom he married in 1990. They have one son, Lawrence and daughter-in-law, Loana and two beautiful granddaughters, Layla and Luciana.

Eric has been an active member of Woodstream Church for over 27 years, serving faithfully as a deacon for 17 years. He also, along with his wife Jeanette, served as church coordinators for Crown Financial Ministries and ministry leaders for the Woodstream Financial Stewardship Ministry for 18 years. Eric was passionate in all of these roles, but more so with Crown which allowed him to use his exemplary teaching skills and become intimate with those he served. He was honored to be selected by the Pastor to serve as Chairman of the “It’s About Your Heart” Campaign to increase giving contributions to the
Woodstream Family Life Center.

Throughout his professional career Eric held several leadership positions. Most recently, Eric had a long tenure with the United States Postal Service where he served faithfully in their prestigious Management Program for over 20 years. He valued his work and was always passionate about teaching and helping others.

Eric leaves to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy his loving and devoted wife, Jeanette Darden; son, Lawrence Ward (Loana) of Maple Grove, MN; two grandchildren, Layla Fay Ward and Luciana Marley Ward of Maple Grove, MN.; two brothers, Melvin Darden (Judy) and Wayne Darden (Patricia) of Snow Hill NC; three sisters, Dorothy Forbes of Wilson, NC, Brenda Hodges of Snow Hill, NC, and Marsha Britt of Durham, NC; two brothers-in-law, Thurman Ward and Donnie Ward of Stantonsburg, NC; and three sisters-in-law, Ethel Carter and Linda Ward-King of Largo, MD, and Bernice Sharpe of Wilson, NC; and a host of other cherished relatives and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, April 3rd from 10-11 until the funeral service begins at 11:00 at Woodstream Church: 9800 Lottsford Rd, Bowie, MD 20721. 

Beloved mother and grandmother, Mary E. Pringle-Gray, passed away on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at the age of 91.

Mary was a proud retiree of the AFL-CIO in Washington DC, where she worked for over forty years. She had been ill for several years and the family wishes to sincerely thank the doctors, nurses, and especially the caregivers who brought peace and comfort to her in her final days.

There will be no services as it was her wish to have a private family interment. Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by using the Memories tab on this page. 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>.

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

Teresa Lynn Zell (6/24/1961 - 3/25/2024), age 62, passed away at her parent’s home in Severn on the morning of March 25th after her life long battle with Lupus and more recently cancer. She is survived by her loving husband William "Paul" Zell of Edgewater, whom she was married to for 38 years. They enjoyed their time together with simple pleasures of watching their special television programs and lunch/ dinner dates. Also survived by her daughters Amanda Pierce of Severn, Tracey Schutte of Shady Side, and Rachel Zell of Edgewater. Teresa was the daughter of Brady E. Chapman (deceased) and Priscilla A. Chapman with siblings Jeanette Harding and Mark Chapman. She was born in Tazwell, VA, but grew up in Severn, MD where she attended Old Mill High School. While she may not have been a member of any organizations or employed, she had the most important jobs of being a loving mother and wonderful "Meme" which she found much joy in. She was so proud to be a "Meme" to her four grandsons, Vincent "Vinnie" Finamore Jr., Elijah "Eli" Pierce, Anthony Schutte Jr., and Chase Schutte. Teresa also enjoyed spending time with her family and friends when her illness would allow her. She will be missed tremendously by all that love and know her.

Viewing to be held on Tuesday April 2nd from 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm.
Funeral Services held on Wednesday April 3rd at 12pm.
Teresa will be buried at Fort Lincoln Cemetery in Brentwood, MD following the services at Kalas Funeral Home.

Celebration of Life to immediately follow the burial services at South River Parks Clubhouse on Circle Dr. in Edgewater.

Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on the left side of this page.



Edmund Joseph "Ed, Eddie" Bednar, 85, of Accokeek, Maryland, passed away on March 25, 2024. 

A track runner and basketball player in his youth, Ed, also known as "Fast Eddie," played softball throughout his naval career in the United States Navy, where he served in the supply corps on various vessels including the USS Wright, USS Biddle, and the aircraft carrier USS Coral Sea. His dedication and service earned him numerous awards and medals during his tenure from October 8, 1956, to July 31, 1991.

After his military service, Ed joined C-Cubed in 1993, eventually becoming President in 1996. He played a pivotal role in strengthening relationships with government customers, securing recompetes and new contracts, and facilitating the successful sale of the company to CACI in 2003. Ed was also a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus and served as Grand Knight.

Edmund Bednar was a proud graduate of Westville High School and held a Masters in Business Education from the Naval Postgraduate School and the University of Michigan.

Edmund was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Anna Bednar, his wife Judy, son John, brother Don, and sister Mildred. He is survived by his daughter Marti Cirillo, son Michael Bednar, grandchildren Danielle Baxter, Maria Cirillo, Nicholas Cirillo, sister-in-law Maryl Bednar, nephews Ken and Mark Bednar, great-grandsons Alex Bonneville and Andrew Justin Wegand.

A viewing will be held on April 12, 2024, from 2:00-4:00 pm at the George P. Kalas Funeral Home, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, Maryland. Funeral services and burial will follow at St. Mary's Catholic Church of Piscataway, 13401 Piscataway Road, Clinton, Maryland at 11:00 am.  A repast will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Accokeek, Maryland after the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tunnel to Towers or St. Jude's in memory of Edmund Bednar.

Edmund will be remembered for his passion for philately, golf, and sports, particularly his love for the Chicago Cubs. He was also an avid bridge player and a devoted member of St. Mary's Church of Piscataway, Clinton, MD.


Relatives and friends are invited to Edmund's Life Celebration on Friday, April 12th, 2024 from 2 to 4 pm at KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Saturday, April 13th, 2024 at 11:00 am at St. Mary's Catholic Church of Piscataway (Main Church) 13401 Piscataway Road, Clinton, MD 20735. Interment St. Mary's of Piscataway Church Cemetery.

Alice I. Bagley, a 14-year resident of the Broadneck Peninsula in Annapolis, MD and previously of Lake Monticello, VA, passed away on March 24, 2024 at the age of 100.  Born on August 21, 1923 in Woodhaven, NY, Alice was a graduate of West Orange High School.  She was a stay-at-home Mom for her children until they were grown and then pursued a career outside her home, retiring in 1984 as a platform officer from the Key Bank in Jamestown, NY.  Alice was a member of the Cape St. Claire United Methodist Church.  She enjoyed sewing, quilting, golf and square dancing.  Her greatest passion though was her family whom she cherished and for whom she was always there.

Alice was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 74 years, Norm; and her cherished daughter. Rhonda Motley.  She is survived by her loving children, Crystal (Steve) Deller of Chester, MD and son, Scott (Jennifer Mitchell) Bagley of Dartmouth, MA; son-in-law, Berk Motley of Stevensville, MD; former daughter-in-law, Hope Bagley of Charlottesville, VA; five grandsons, Jason (Laura) and Jeremy (Khanh) Broadhead, Justin (Claire) and Evan Bagley, and Will Motley; three granddaughters, Wendy (Todd) Sloper, Kelly (Rob) O’Brien, and Jaimee (Nico) Motley-Cueva.  She is also survived by 11 great-grandchildren, Elodie and Bennett Broadhead, Zoie, Briel and Scarlet Sloper, Khang Tran, Redding and Leon Motley-Cueva, Cyrus and Piper O’Brien, and Delilah Alice Bagley-Sleap.

A funeral service will be held at 10AM on Tuesday, April 2 at Cape St. Claire United Methodist Church, 855 Chestnut Tree Drive, Annapolis, MD 21409.  Burial will follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville, MD.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake Foundation, John and Cathy Belcher Campus, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122.

Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page. 



Relatives and friends are invited to Mark's life celebration on April 1st, 2024 from 11:00 am until the start of the service at 12:00 pm at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church 5203 St Barnabas Rd, Marlow Heights, MD 20748. Interment to be held at the church following the service.

Chester Bennett Roberts of Edgewater, MD and formerly of Palmetto, FL passed away peacefully on March 23, 2024 at the age of 75.

Born on February 15, 1949 in Washington, DC to the late Albert Monroe and Frances Evelyn Cralle Roberts, Chester graduated from Southern High School in Harwood in 1967. On July 8, 1968 he married the love of his life, Bonnie Jean Griffin. He was a proud member of Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 5 in DC for over 55 years, working for various mechanical contractors throughout his career. After his retirement, he especially enjoyed being a judge at the annual skills competition and walking the Florida beaches with his metal detector. Chester was an avid Redskins and Capitals fan and enjoyed NASCAR, boating, fishing and never losing a game of Scrabble. His grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was a loving Pop Pop and was extremely proud of each of them, always bragging about them to his friends.

In addition to his parents, Chester was preceded in death by his beautiful bride of more than 50 years, Bonnie and his brothers, Al and Jimmy and his sister, Sharon.

He is survived by his children, Staci Lynn (Tony) Pessagno and C. Brian Roberts, all of Edgewater, MD; his four grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Kyle and Cole Pessagno and Rosemary Roberts; his brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, and many nieces and nephews. 

Friends are invited to celebrate Chester's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD, on Saturday, March 30, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Alice J. Floyd, 79, a resident of Edgewater, MD for thirty years and previously of Bladensburg, MD, died on Saturday, March 23 at George Washington University Hospital after suffering a stroke. Born on August 31, 1944 in Washington, DC to the late Irving and Jane Edwards, Alice graduated from Bladensburg High School and worked for thirty-three years at the Department of the Interior in the Bureau of Mines. She retired in 1995. 

Alice was a member of The Ladies Auxiliary at The American Legion Post 226 in Edgewater, MD and enjoyed baking, cooking, duck pin bowling, watching the Washington Commanders (Redskins) playing cards & board games with her many Legion friends. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, you could be sure to find her helping with Bingo and Pizza Night at the Legion. She also enjoyed travelling to the casinos and to Louisiana with her sister Janet to visit their niece, Missy Spicer.  

She is survived by her loving husband of 29 years, Bernie Floyd; her stepsons, David Floyd (and Mary) of Elkridge and Jason Floyd (partner Lisa) of Harwood; her siblings, Paul Edwards (wife Shirley), Peggy Andrezeywski (husband Stephen) and Janet Orr (husband Bobby), a sister in law, Susan Floyd, six grandchildren, 13 nieces and nephews and many great nieces and great nephews. Alice also had a soft spot for her four-legged companions, Rocky, Cody, Patches and Cali, who have all crossed the rainbow bridge. Hailey, a two-year-old Golden Retriever, now carries on her memory. 

Alice’s warm smile and loving spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Friends are invited to celebrate Alice’s life at the American Legion Post 226, 830 Mayo Rd., Edgewater, MD on Saturday, April 27 from 2:00 - 5:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The American Legion Riders Project 226, P.O. Box 1531, Edgewater, MD 21037-7531.   

Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Rebekah “Becky” Rice, 67, a resident of Edgewater for over 20 years, and previously of Pittsburgh, PA, passed away at Anne Arundel Medical Center on March 23, 2024, after a short illness.

Becky was born on October 13, 1956, in Pittsburgh, PA to the late Joe and Melva Brittian. She was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the University of the District of Columbia, earning a Master’s degree in Nursing.

She was an ICU Nurse and saved many lives throughout her career.

Becky’s interests included swimming, planting flowers in her garden, and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a loving mother and an amazing wife who would do anything for her family and friends.

Becky is survived by her husband of 35 years, John F. Rice, one son, Blake Rice of Edgewater, and daughters; Alexis Skiles Bronder and Ashton Bronder. Also survived by her grandchildren, Rowan and Brooklyn Skiles, and Knox and Knight Washington, and her siblings, Janice Hrach, Joseph Brittain, William Brittain, and Dave Brittain 










A Celebration of Rebekah's life will take place on Friday, April 5 at 11am at Bay Area Community Church, 884 Chesterfield Road, Annapolis, MD 21401. Online condolences and tributes may be made by using the memories link on this page.  

Nellie K. Booth, 88, a longtime resident Edgewater, MD and most recently of Denton, MD, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2024 with her daughter by her side. Born in Tannersville, VA to the late William and Nellie Kinder, Nell was raised in Virginia and married the love of her life, Edward B. Booth. They moved to Maryland in 1959, where she worked for a sail making company. She was a homemaker most of her life and then worked for Jules Hair Salon and the Wig Haus once her children were in school. When her first grandchild was born, she provided daycare for her and many other children. She retired after 42 years. Her first and foremost passions were her husband, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, extended family, and friends.  She had a great talent for sewing, baking, and candy making which she enjoyed sharing with everyone. She enjoyed preparing tasty treats for the Easter and Christmas Church gatherings for many years. Nothing pleased her more than seeing everyone enjoy what she had put so much love and energy into preparing. Nell is survived by her children, Bill (Debbie) Booth and Debbie (Jerry) Wicker; her grandchildren, Shannon (Chris) James, Jerry Wicker, II, Caitlin (Adam) Perkins and Haley (Mark) Cirincione; her great grandchildren, Macey and Garrett James, Dustin Wicker, Grayson, Liam and Paxton Perkins and Leo Cirincione; her brothers, Jay (Connie) and Sam (Connie) Kinder and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Edward Booth and her siblings, Curtis, Reece, John, Otis, Rufus, Ernest, Ronnie, Beulah Kell, Ruby Waddell and Sallie Kinder. Friends are invited to celebrate Nell's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Thursday, March 28 from 11 am until her funeral service begins at 1 pm. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Annapolis, MD. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Nell’s name to Compass Regional Hospice (compassregionalhospice.org) or the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (alzfdn.org). Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Zenaida Miranda Sison, 77, resident of Oxon Hill, Maryland, died on Thursday, March 21, 2024 at Inova Alexandria Hospital in Virginia, after suffering septic shock from a gastrointestinal bacterial infection from an intestinal perforation. Born on October 30, 1946 in Pampanga, Philippines, Zenaida was the fifth of eight children to Emiliano and Consolacion Miranda. In 1970 she married Desiderio Sison, Jr. of Pangasinan, Philippines; then that same year they immigrated to the United States, settling in the Washington, D.C. area. They moved to what would be their lifelong home in Oxon Hill, MD in 1977. 

Zenaida, or "Aida" as she was called by her family and friends, worked in admissions and bed control at United Medical Center, formerly Greater Southeast Community Hospital, in Washington D.C., for over thirty years, retiring in 2016. Aida was known for her genial lively conversation, her clothing style and cooking skill in Filipino cuisine, fulfilling requests for lumpia eggrolls and pancit noodles even in her retirement. She enjoyed planning her garden around her house, tending her indoor exotic plants and the thrill of casino slot machines with her friends.

Aida is survived by her three children, Darwin Juzen Sison, Michele Sison-Torres and Cheryl Sison. She also has three wonderful grandsons, Michele's sons, Xavier and Marcus Torres, and Cheryl's son, Isaiah Baxter Sison.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, April 11th from 2-4 and 6-8 at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Friday, April 12th at St. Columba Catholic Church at 10AM, 7800 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745. 

Sam Burtnick, 73, of Edgewater/Davidsonville, MD, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 21, 2024, after a long battle with ALS. His final moments were spent in his home surrounded by loved ones.

In 2018, Sam sought medical care for an unexplained weakness and loss of stability in his left leg. After numerous doctor visits and surgeries, a team of neurologists at the ALS Clinic in Baltimore, MD, determined he was experiencing symptoms of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

ALS attacks the nervous system and weakens the body. Sam fought for 5+ years to prove it could not weaken his intellect, spirit, or passion for life.

Sam enjoyed spending time with his family above all else. It is difficult to list hobbies because his family is his passion. He loved to take his family on day trips to the mountains or vacations to the islands. In his younger days, he loved to go on fishing trips, and he loved to go fast in his Pontiac GTO or, later, in his Toyota Supra.

He loved cheering for the home team. He rooted for the Orioles, the Capitals, and especially, his beloved Redskins. Perhaps his favorite home team consisted of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was an incredibly supportive father and grandfather during football games, lacrosse games, hockey games, and boxing matches.

During business hours, Sam was a hell of a salesman. He knew how to identify clients' needs, build lasting relationships, and ensure their interests were met over time. He managed his business relationships with optimism and a remarkable mix of patience and persistence.

Sam is survived by his wife of 47 years, Mary Burtnick; three children, Andrew (Kiki), Brian, and Audrey (Chris); one sister, Irene; six grandchildren, Branden (Crystal), Lily, Wyatt, Nolan, Abigail, and Lucy; and four great-grandchildren Max, Bradley, Bentley, and Brody.

In addition to his parents, Joseph and Mary, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Raymond and Norman, and his grandson, Tyler.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Samuel's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD, on Friday, March 29, from 11 am until his funeral begins at 1 pm.

Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Amante Semmes Carlquist, 96, died peacefully on March 20, 2024 with her youngest son, Robert, at her side. Amante was born in Pensacola, FL where she lived most of her life until meeting and marrying then Ensign Roger Carlquist, USNA ‘48, while he was training to become a Naval Aviator. Her greatest love, by far, was her faith and her family. 
Amante had a radiance and beauty, both figuratively and literally speaking. She was extremely comfortable in social settings and loved to entertain. It’s because of this unique blend of qualities that she was named the Queen of Ariola in 1949 as part of Pensacola’s long standing Mardi Gras celebration tradition. After living in too many parts of the country to count, along with also living in several countries overseas, she and Roger settled in the Annapolis area in 1978. They initially lived in Severna Park before moving to Annapolis in 1996. 

Amante was active in community organizations including the Christ Child Society of Annapolis, Daughters of the American Revolution and The Panhellenic Club of Annapolis. She was an extremely accomplished bridge player which complemented her love for entertaining. A die-hard Navy football fan, she attended games through her mid-90s. 
She was predeceased by her loving husband, Roger, and is survived by her six children, Susan (Roy) Bucher, Katherine Campbell, Mary (Bill) Barker, Richard (Tasna) Carlquist, Monica (Ric) Murray and Robert Carlquist; ten grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren. 

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Amante's life on Sunday, May 5, from 4 to 6 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Monday, May 6 at 10:30 am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N. Bestgate Road, Annapolis, MD. Interment at Arlington National Cemetery will be on June 13, at 9 AM. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Amante Carlquist’s name may be made to the Tailhook Educational Foundation, 9696 Business Park Ave, San Diego, CA 92131-1643 or the Christ Child Society of Annapolis. 


A celebration of Kathy's life will be held on Sunday, March 24 from 5-7 PM at Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater.  On Monday, March 25, visitation will be held from 10:30-11:30 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W. Central Avenue, Davidsonville, MD.  Interment will follow at St. James Church Cemetery, Lothian, MD.

Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on the left side of this page.

Sharon “Shay” Hall, 80, of Annapolis, MD passed away peacefully on March 18, 2024.  Shay was born in Utah, but spent most of her formative years in Denver, Colorado with her parents Mae and Eugene Howard, where she was the youngest of five children.

Shay’s life was full and complete due to her limitless devotion to family and friends.  As a career dental hygienist, she had a daily opportunity to meet and greet new people and often was referred to as “the mayor” since she knew so many people of all ages in the community.  She adored her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  Likewise, she was a beloved Sister, Mom, Nana and friend to so many.  

Shay raised her three children in Mayo, Md and loved watching them grow into successful members of the community.  No one could have had a more profound impact on their children than Shay did, mostly leading by example and living by the right values on a daily basis.  Her loyalty to family, tolerance for others, and generally positive demeanor for all situations will live on in her family for generations to come.

Aside from spending time with her family, she was an avid contributor to the community.  She volunteered at her favorite church, Saint James’ Episcopal in Lothian, where she really enjoyed spending time with fellow parishioners in various fund raising events.  She also spent time on the HOA board for her previous residence in South River Colony in Edgewater.  She loved meeting with her fellow residents to try and make life a little more fun and easier in the condominiums.  By far though, she loved meeting so many patients and colleagues in her 40yr career as a dental hygienist at various dental offices in Edgewater and Annapolis.  She was a fan favorite due to her gentle affable nature and willingness to engage with everyone.  She would see those kids become adults and all the while cleaning their teeth a few times a year and keeping up with individuals and families throughout their lives as well.

Shay is preceded in death by her sisters Colleen and Charlotte, her brothers Gene Jr. and Duane, plus her beloved parents Mae and Eugene.  Shay is survived by her three children, Clay, Christie, and Chance; Clay and his wife Kathy of Edgewater, MD, plus their children Shane, Jordan, Colin, and Ryan; Christie and her husband Jimmy of Johnson City, TN and their children Gregory, Gavin, and Connor; Chance and his wife Janelle of Annapolis, MD and their children Caroline, Annabelle, Lizzie and Jacob.

The family respectfully requests that, in lieu of flowers, a tax-deductible tribute donation be made in Shay’s name to the <a href="https://www.smiletrain.org/?form=FUNATWUYAEW&recurring=once">Smile Train</a>.

Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on the left side of this page.

William C. Phelps Jr, "Bill," a 35-year resident of Annapolis, MD, and previously of Catonsville, MD, died of heart failure on Monday, March 18, 2024, following a two-year illness.

Born March 7, 1943, in Baltimore, MD, to the late Helen and William C. Phelps, Sr., he graduated from Catonsville High School and worked as a self-employed software engineer. Bill enjoyed guitar, skiing, fishing, crabbing, genealogy, square dancing, geology, and camping.  Bill was a cancer survivor that cared greatly for his family.

In his early years he played guitar in a band.  He also, with the help of his siblings, constructed a pool at his father’s house where many a weekend was spent with the extended family cooking out and playing in the pool.  In later years he enjoyed many family reunions and events, talking and laughing with his siblings and extended family.  He had many mechanical talents, fixing cars and electronics alike.  

He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Lindy Phelps; five children, Brian Phelps of Severna Park, MD, William Phelps, III of Annapolis, MD, Jeffrey Currier of Washington, DC, Patricia Phelps-De Ridder (Jones) of Ocala, FL, and Jennifer Phelps of Annapolis, MD; five siblings, Joseph, Timothy, David, and Edwin Phelps, and Rosemary Phelps Jones; six grandchildren, Alexander Phelps, Blade Jones, Lachlan Currier, Chloe Phelps, Skye Matthews (Jones), and Maeve Currier; and three great-grandsons, Wyatt, Layton, and Ronin Matthews.

Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Obituaries

Antonio Poblete

Fr. Eugene Rzeczkowski, O.P.

Gary Christopher

Deborah Tipton

John Placido

Evelyn Riddle

Betty Robins

Eric Darden

Mary Pringle-Gray

Kathleen O'Lynnger

Teresa Zell

Edmund Bednar

Alice Bagley

Mark Dixon

Chester Roberts

Alice Floyd

Rebekah Rice

Nell Booth

Zenaida Sison

Samuel Burtnick

Amante Carlquist

Kathleen Kroliczek

Sharon Hall

William "Bill" Phelps, Jr.