Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

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.

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.

Please check back for an update regarding services and interment at Ft. Myer Old Post Chapel and Arlington National Cemetery.

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 at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

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.



Funeral arrangements pending. Please leave a memory under the "memories" tab.

Anna Patricia Benso, 44, a 10-year resident of Baltimore, Maryland and previously of West River passed away on November 26, 2025 at her home. Born on April 24, 1981 at Prince George’s Hospital in Glenarden, Maryland to Michael Joseph Benso and Laura Maria Benso, Anna graduated from Archbishop Spaulding High School in 1999 before obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology from the University of Maryland. She later established careers as a paralegal and a web designer. Anna was a parishioner at Holy Family Catholic Church in Davidsonville. In her spare time, she enjoyed photography, snowboarding, art, spending time in nature, travel, and adventure. In addition to her parents, Anna is survived by her sister, Nadia (Keith) Orem of Catonsville, MD and her nephews, Joseph Lennon, Keathe Orem, Levi Orem, and Jeremiah Orem. Anna will be remembered for her kindhearted and cheerful nature, and for always bringing joy to others.  Anna's beautiful smile and contagious laughter is a gift we will cherish forever.  Anna will be deeply missed.  May her warm radiant soul embrace us in her afterglow. Friends are invited to celebrate Anna’s life at a Facebook Online Remembrance event hosted by Jenny Andrews on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 1 pm (online <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1355177408863123/?__cft__[0]=AZYLRGiAZwpXI3mHWK0PLy61JoNmB47R1Tm1jlLJ8rS0RTMUq0d3n37d23g5NxBFLErHWpd768I4cmBhOV3OJl5M-kEGD2hSCsfsBHZ_h9vCeJx3y0iaFJMQDHQm5KB901c&__tn__=R]-R">here</a>). A memorial service will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church on a date to be determined.

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

Anna Flaim Skinner (47) passed on November 25th, 2025, after bariatric sleeve surgery complications. Anna is survived by her loving husband Daniel Skinner, her three children, Olivia, Jessica and Nicholas and her siblings: Remigio, Rita and, Graziella.

Anna was born February 23rd ,1978 to her Italian Parents, Amelia, and Luigi Flaim in Washington D.C. This is where she went to Francis. T Evans, St, Johns to then Bishop McNamara High school. She graduated with a bachelor's from University of Maryland and received a master's at Phoenix University. She worked at Montgomery Ward then Best Buy to Home Depot Design Center where she enjoyed being a Design Specialist working on Kitchens and Bathrooms. She really enjoyed the company of her coworkers as they were her second family.

She had met her husband through his mother in Montgomery Ward, as they grew close, gotten married and had three beautiful children together. She loved using her timeshare to travel to various of places with her family. She would go to any place she could go to, especially before she had kids and traveled the world. She loved to go to Disney World with her husband in Orlando Florida.

Her love for crocheting had started by her sister Rita who helped Anna make a bed doll. She loved to watch her TV shows with her daughter Jessica. She loved to be on the phone with her loved ones as she drives to and from work, she adapted to talk to anyone she could as she was social butterfly. She especially loved to design kitchens and could talk for hours about the cabinets with her father Luigi who was a cabinet maker and had passed in 2021. She loved her own kitchen and had spoke numerous times on renovating it. She adapted to get her skills in gardening from her father Luigi as they would plant flower and vegetables in her garden. She spent most of her time going on little dates with her husband Daniel. She had a fond of the color purple (which at one time had a purple ford escort), as she had purple everything and her daughter Jessica (her magic mushroom) who had adapted from her mother and is her “mini-me” We give thanks and appreciation to Anna for being the woman she was and we showcase the importance of her life. All will dearly miss her. Toodle-loo!

Relatives and friends are invited to Anna's Life Celebration on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 from 10 A.M. until the start of Mass of Christian Burial at 11 A.M. at St. Mary's of Piscataway Catholic Church, 13405 Piscataway Road, Clinton, MD 20735. Interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 8000 Woodyard Road, Clinton, MD 20735.

Margaret Ann (Peggy) Youngling, 82, a long-time resident of Davidsonville, MD, passed away Monday, November 24, 2025, at her home in Davidsonville after a brief illness. Peggy was born August 7, 1943, in Framingham, MA, to the late Raymond and Catherine Rasicot.  Peggy graduated from Framingham High School. While in high school Peggy enjoyed twirling her baton in the high school marching band.

In addition to being a homemaker, Peggy also enjoyed hostessing at local restaurant establishments such as Adam’s Rib in Edgewater, Md, Spring House, Davidsonville, and Killarney House, Davidsonville.  Peggy also enjoyed crafts, sewing, ceramics, and working in the yard planting flowers and trees.  She was so proud of her cherry trees that lined her property in the neighborhood.

Peggy was a big fan of NFL. She loved the New England Patriots. Peggy was also very enthusiastic about NASCAR. 
  
Peggy enjoyed her many summer trips to Cape Cod to visit family and friends, and simply enjoy being on the Cape. Her favorite adventure while visiting Cape Cod was shopping every Christmas Tree Shop and perhaps more than once.

Peggy is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Dawn (Youngling) and Kirk Halvorson of Friendship MD, a son, Eric Youngling of Katy TX, a daughter-in-law, Rachel Youngling, of Yarmouth MA, and a granddaughter, Cordelia Youngling, also of Yarmouth MA, and a step-grandson, Hunter of MD, in addition to several cousins. 

The family would like to extend gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and medical staff at Luminis Health Gilchrist Lifecare Institute for their medical care. 

Friends are invited to celebrate Peggy’s life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 2-4pm.  Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page. 

Kathryn Jean “Kathy” Simmons (née Bye), 70, Devoted Mother, Joyful Grandmother, and Beloved Community Builder

Kathryn Jean “Kathy” Simmons, whose warmth, humor, and unwavering devotion shaped the lives of her family, friends, and an entire school community, died peacefully at her home in Annapolis, Maryland, on November 23, 2025. She was 70.

Born on January 9, 1955, in New Albany, Indiana, to Gilson Wayne Bye and Lois Stanley Bye, Kathy grew up moving often, though Indiana always felt like home. She maintained lifelong bonds with her siblings, Joe Bye and Sandy Krull, and with her nine nieces: Tricia, Susie, Lisa, Linda, Lori, Leah, Anne, Kate, and Alex - each of whom she adored.

Kathy’s greatest joy, deepest purpose, and most profound legacy was her family.

In 1978 she married the love of her life and college sweetheart, William “Will” Simmons. Though Will predeceased her in 2010, their loving relationship remained a central cornerstone to her and her children’s lives. 

To her children, Tom and Jenny, Kathy was not simply a devoted mother; she was their anchor, their confidante, and their closest friend. Their relationship was defined by extraordinary closeness, the kind of bond that only deepens and strengthens over a lifetime. They spoke every single day, often for hours, sharing the details of their lives, laughing together, seeking her counsel, or simply keeping each other company across the miles. Her children knew that whatever life brought, their mother’s voice; warm, steady, wise, and often punctuated with perfect humor, was always waiting for them.
Family life in the Simmons home was vibrant, affectionate, and grounded in shared adventure. Kathy and Will believed in making memories, in showing their children the world, and in building a life that prioritized togetherness above all else. Summers were often spent sailing, sometimes on the Chesapeake Bay, and other times in the British Virgin Islands, snorkeling through beautiful reefs; Kathy napping on the deck of the boat or mixing up drinks below deck as Will sailed, and laughing late into warm island nights.

Kathy remained the constant presence in her children’s lives, showing up for every moment, large or small, with unwavering love. Her devotion extended to her grandchildren, Hadley and Wills, whose dance recitals, hockey games, school concerts, and Grandparents Days she attended with boundless enthusiasm. She was never just in the audience; she was the one cheering the loudest, smiling the widest, and savoring every second.

Kathy’s sister Sandy remained one of her closest companions her entire life, their bond marked by frequent phone calls and the unmistakable sound of their shared, exuberant cackling. Kathy formed deep, enduring friendships at every stage of her life. She traveled with friends who shared her sense of fun, sipping Almond Joy cocktails in hot tubs and hunting for sea glass and treasures at local arts fairs.

A love of animals and wildlife was another thread in her life, from trips out West with Will to see bison, moose and prairie dogs, to penguins in New Zealand, and the fish of the Caribbean.  Throughout her life she loved and cared for numerous pets, most recently her cherished King Charles Cavaliers, Lucy and Bertie, and was often found snuggling with them on her couch.

But perhaps the truest measure of Kathy’s life was in how she made people feel. She was the person you called in moments of joy, and the person you needed in moments of crisis. She made people feel seen, understood, and fully accepted. She listened without judgment. She encouraged others to build the lives they wanted and was fiercely supportive through every step. Her humor; sharp, unexpected, and perfectly timed, lifted heavy days and softened difficult moments.

Beyond her friends and family, Kathy’s most lasting impact was on the Indian Creek School community, where her presence spanned nearly four decades. When her children enrolled in 1988, she immediately became a cornerstone of the school’s parent, volunteer, and board leadership; bringing her signature blend of competence, warmth, and razor-sharp intelligence.

She served as PTO Secretary and President before joining the Board of Trustees for nine years, eventually chairing the Development Committee and leading Indian Creek’s first capital campaign. In 1999, she became a founding Trustee and Upper School Project Director, where she played a central role in securing the 114-acre campus and shaping the design and construction of the Upper School. Her fingerprints remain on everything from strategic fundraising to the fixtures selected for classrooms and hallways.

Kathy later served as Associate Head of Admissions, Director of Financial Aid, and Director of Strategic Initiatives, guiding the school through its transformational campus unification project. Even in retirement, she remained a joyful and familiar presence - attending concerts, events, and especially Grandparents Days with Hadley and Wills.

Many may not know that before her decades of work in education, Kathy built an impressive early career in national politics and government. A cum laude graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University with dual majors in Politics and Government (with a concentration in International Relations) and Journalism, she earned a highly competitive internship on the Gerald Ford Re-election Campaign. This led to a role as a research assistant in the Press Division of the President Ford Committee in 1976.

She went on to serve as Director of Nutrition Programs at Fraser/Associates, Director of Correspondence for U.S. Senator William V. Roth, Managing Editor of the International Trade & Investments Newsletter, and Research Director for the International Business Advisory Council’s information services. After the birth of her daughter, she transitioned away from government work, taking on freelance journalism before devoting herself fully to her community and family.

Kathy lived a life defined by generosity, wit, and an unwavering belief in the power of community - whether a school, a family, or the many people whose lives she touched. Her influence endures in the traditions she created, the institutions she strengthened, the loved ones she nurtured, and the countless individuals who felt seen, supported, and uplifted by her presence. She will be deeply missed.

We’d like to invite everyone whose lives were touched by Kathy’s warmth and kindness to the visitation held on Friday, December 5, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Kalas Funeral Home located at 2973 Solomons Island Road in Edgewater. A Memorial Service will be held at Indian Creek School, located at 1130 Anne Chambers Way in Crownsville on Saturday, December 6, from 4 to 6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Indian Creek School or a charity you love in her name. 
https://www.boostmyschool.com/orgs/indiancreekschool/campaigns/creekfund

Today, we gather with full hearts to celebrate the beautiful life and legacy of Sharon Elizabeth McBride a woman whose presence was a blessing, and whose faith was her guiding light.  Affectionately known as Sister Sharon, Ms. Sharon, and Nana, she entered peacefully into eternal rest on November 23, 2025.  A devoted Christian, beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, Sharon’s life was marked by her faith, patience, and unwavering dedication to those she loved. 



Early Life and Family 

She was born on May 7, 1951, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, as the cherished daughter of George and Dorothy Coker, who have both preceded her in death. Sharon was the only daughter among five siblings, growing up surrounded by her brothers: George Coker, Willie Coker (deceased), Foreigner Foote (Micheal Coker), John Coker, and Timothy Coker. Her role as the sole sister in a family of brothers helped shape her gentle strength and loving spirit, qualities that would define her throughout her life. 

 

A Life Built on Faith and Service 

From her earliest days, Sharon Elizabeth McBride embodied a gentle strength and kindness that illuminated all she encountered. Her steadfast faith provided the foundation for her life, guiding each decision and every act of love. Sharon embraced her favorite scripture, Philippians 4:13 — “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This sacred verse was not merely an affirmation, but the guiding truth that shaped her unwavering compassion, perseverance, and devotion through every chapter of her journey. 


Dedication to Education and Nurturing Children 


Sharon dedicated many years of her life to the field of education, serving as a special education teacher’s aide. Her remarkable patience and heartfelt compassion made her a natural nurturer, especially for children with unique needs. Sharon looked beyond challenges, believing deeply in the innate potential within every child. She took immense pride in helping her students grow, learn, and discover their true value. Her influence reached far beyond the classroom, touching countless lives with encouragement, support, and unconditional care. The legacy of her nurturing spirit endures in the hearts of all those she taught and cared for. 


Family Life and Lasting Legacy 

Approximately in 1970, Sharon married Otis McBride (deceased), the love of her life, and together, they built a loving and faith-filled home, raising three cherished daughters: 

Shelta McBride, Olethia McBride, and Shemeka McBride.   Survived by her grandchildren, Deonte Turner, Dion Miller, Milan McBride, Owen Bates, Dakota Brown, Dallas Brown, and 1 great grandson, Damani Miller.   She poured her heart into her family, building a home filled with faith, warmth, creativity, and love. Being a wife, mother, and grandmother brought her immeasurable joy and purpose.  


A Calling to Nurture: JOY Daycare 

As her journey progressed, Sharon transitioned from working in the school system to opening her own home daycare, JOY Daycare—an acronym for Jesus, Others, and You. This endeavor was far more than a business to Sharon; it was an extension of her ministry. JOY Daycare became a safe and loving environment where every child was treasured. Sharon established a space grounded in structure, learning, kindness, and the love of God, ensuring that each child felt truly cherished under her care. 

Sharon was also blessed with extraordinary artistic gifts. She was an exquisite artist who could draw lifelike portraits, decorate any room with beauty and balance, and create crafts that reflected her creativity and meticulous attention to detail. Whether she was sewing, sketching, painting, or designing, everything she touched carried her unique artistic signature. 



A Lasting Influence of Love 

A woman of grace, elegance, and quiet strength, Sharon was deeply devoted to her family and community. She had the ability to make everyone feel special and seen. Her words were gentle, her presence was calming, and her love was unwavering. She prayed faithfully, encouraged constantly, and lived as an example of what it means to walk with God. 

To know Sharon was to know kindness. To be loved by Sharon was to feel supported, valued, and uplifted. Losing her leaves a space in our hearts that only her love could fill—but we find comfort in knowing that she is now resting in glory, surrounded by peace, reunited with loved ones, and held in God’s eternal embrace.  

Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched—the children she taught and nurtured, the families she helped shape, the art she created, the wisdom she shared, and the love she gave so generously.  Especially her grandkids who she adored. As we honor her today, let us remember her faith, her creativity, her compassion, and her unshakable joy. 


A Tribute to Sharon’s Enduring Spirit 

Though Sharon’s time on earth is complete, her spirit continues to inspire us. She reminds us to love deeply, give generously, and trust God. Her kindness and faith will always be remembered. 

Rest well, Sharon Elizabeth McBride. Your life was a gift, and your legacy will live on in all who knew you. 


Relatives and friends are invited to gather for Sharon's Life Celebration on Saturday, December 20, 2025 from 12:30 P.M. until the start of the service at 1:30 P.M. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill MD 20745.

George Woodward Simpson Sr. passed away peacefully in the presence of family during the early morning hours of Sunday, 23 Nov 2025 at 90 years old. Born on 27 Dec 1934 and raised in Donora, PA as an equally proud Scot and “Mon Valley” man, he lived his life by one simple phrase uttered to him by his own grandfather, “Be a good lad.” His innate integrity and ambition to fulfill that promise was evident underneath what seemed to be a quiet and stern demeanor in his lifelong drive to be the kind, compassionate, protective, humorous, and devoted man, husband, father, and grandfather that all who knew him loved.

After graduating from Donora High School in 1952 alongside Dorothy Kovalak Simpson, whom George would later reconnect with and wed in 2002, George attended Pennsylvania State University. He graduated with a Bachelor’s in Political Science as part of the class of 1956 alongside his first wife, Alice Gardner Simpson. George was also a brother with the Kappa Delta Rho fraternity and member of the ROTC at Penn State, which he used to launch incredibly diverse and fulfilling career in the United States Air Force from the time of his 1956 graduation to his 1984 retirement as a Lieutenant Colonel in Austin, TX. His proud 28 years with the USAF saw him stationed around the globe in service to his country as he and Alice built and raised their family; consequently, these experiences only served to deepen the appreciation he held for different world views and cultures that he ultimately imparted on his descendants. Though several of his overseas duties saw him consistently exposed to mortal danger, George stood steadfast and brave in his mission and devotion to his country. Dependability and quiet strength were hallmarks of George’s character both with the Air Force and as a family man. After retiring from the Air Force, he spent 15 years with the state of Texas filling multiple roles before retiring for a second time to be with his wife Alice prior to her passing in 2000.

The majority of George’s peaceful retirement was shared with wife Dorothy in the life they built together in Etowah, NC following their wedding in 2002. Over the 21 years they lived happily in the area, he was often found working in their yard, caring for the local wildlife by way of a feeder that fed as many squirrels, deer, and bears as it did birds, and tinkering around the house when he and Dorothy were not enjoying their golden years together through travel or joyous moments spent locally. They moved to Maryland together with his beloved bird-feeder in 2023 to be closer to family, where his contagious smile, giving nature, sharp wit, and dry sense of humor immediately made him a beloved fixture in their community the same way he had always been everywhere else he had lived.

He is preceded in death by his four grandparents; parents, James Wallace Simpson and Edna Woodward Simpson; sister, Jane Irvin; son-in-law, Theodore (Ted) Noel; and wife of 46 years, Alice. He is survived by Dorothy, his wife of 23 years, and by the four children he shared with wife Alice: daughter, Ann and husband Radd; son, George and wife Lisa; daughter, Jane and late husband Ted; and son, David and wife Schrie. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren (Wyatt, Seth, Catherine, Isan, Alison, Carly, Kailea, Andrew, Emma, and Austen) and 10 great-grandchildren (Clara, Cecilia, Madison, Holden, Courtland, Alice, Edith, Alessa, Klara, and Kaci).

George loved his family and friends deeply, and his arms were always open to those who needed shelter from a storm, a listening ear, or a helping hand. He valued hard work, honesty, faith, devotion, a good meal, a hearty laugh, and above all, time with his loved ones. He gave true meaning to the words of “patriarch” and “patron,” led by example instead of just instruction, and was an inspiration to his family and his community, who will all miss him dearly.

His service will be held on Saturday, December 6 at 10 AM the Marshall Marra Funeral Home, 216 Chess St. Monongahela, PA 15063. Burial will immediately follow at Monongahela Cemetery, 800 Country Club Rd. Monongahela, PA 15063. In lieu of flowers, please give your loved ones a hug and a kiss, and maybe ask someone “Is there anything I can do for you?” 

Online condolences can be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

A complete obituary for Mr. Dawson will be posted here soon.

Obituaries

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

Harold Young

Anna Benso

Janks Morton

Anna Skinner

Margaret "Peggy" Youngling

Kathy Simmons

Sharon McBride

George Woodward Simpson, Sr.

Samuel Dawson