Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

A full obituary will be posted soon. Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Edith Ann “Edie” Handley, 80, a 40-year resident of Bowie, MD, passed away on March 29, 2025, at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis.  Born on June 4, 1944, in Washington, D.C. to the late Kenneth and Margaret Gosweiler, Edie grew up in Suitland, MD, and graduated from Suitland High School.  She worked as an administrative secretary for the C&P Telephone Company (now Verizon), retiring in 1997 following 35 years of service.  Edie was an avid reader and had a great sense of humor.  She loved to laugh, garden, and flowers.  She is survived by her devoted son, Sean Michael Handley, and grandson, Sean Dylan Handley, both of Bowie, MD.  

Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online condolences may be offered using the Memories link on this page.

Online condolences and tributes can be made by using the memories link on the left of this page. 

Karen Sue (Hammer) Doyle, 76, a 30-year resident of Annapolis, MD and previously of Bowie, MD passed away suddenly Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Anne Arundel Medical Center after a brief illness. Karen was born 1949, in Washington, DC, to Kenneth William and Sylvia Marilyn Hammer.  Karen spent her childhood in Landover Hills, MD. Karen was a graduate of DuVal Senior High School in Lanham, MD and spent a 30-year career in banking and as an insurance adjuster.

Karen was a devoted sister, mother, grandmother and aunt who had a passion for her family during every holiday, birthday, or special event. She especially loved Christmas and made sure her family always had the most magical Christmas. 

Karen was an animal lover, having several pets Ladd, Ginger, Sandy, Jade, and Zoey over the years, who she loved just as passionately as her family members. Karen was a lifelong “Redskins” fan. She loved beach vacations and could regularly be found on the boardwalk playing games with her family. She loved the color purple.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents Kenneth and Sylvia Hammer, her loving uncle Stanley Sutphin. Karen is survived by her son, William Keith Doyle (Holly); her grandchildren, Kenneth Doyle (Holly), Samantha Doyle, and Emily Doyle; her great grandchildren Makayla Frank and Kenneth Doyle; her sister and best friend Kathy Smith (Robert); her nephew Robert Smith, niece Meghann Wellard (Brandon); and her grand-nieces Ava, Lilly, and Claire Wellard.

Visitation for Karen will be on Wednesday,  April 9, 2025 from 10 am – 12 Noon at the Kalas Funeral Home, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD, with a funeral to follow at noon.  Interment at Fort Lincoln Cemetery, Brentwood, MD.   


Melissa Kathryn Wampler, born October 28, 1991, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on March 29, 2025. She loved music and good food and could often be heard singing when she thought nobody was listening. She leaves behind her mother, Tracy Wampler; her father, William Thomas Wampler; her three children whom she adored and loved spending time with, Mariah Lee McGrath, Lily Rose Collison, and Caiden Matthew Young; three brothers, Billy, Ryan and Adam Wampler; three nephews and one niece, Jamie, Colin, Asher and Cassie; and an extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins. While we miss Melissa terribly we know she has been called home to glory where she has found eternal peace. 

Her celebration of life will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 4 pm at Riva Trace Baptist Church, 475 West Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD 21035.

Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on the left side of this page.


Susan “Suzy” “Sushi” Mitchell, 65, a 28 year resident of Edgewater, passed away peacefully at her residence on March 28, 2025 after an eight year battle with metastatic breast cancer.  Born in Washington, DC on September 10, 1959 to the late Henry and Margaret Nicowski, she graduated from La Reine High School and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Maryland and a Master's from the School of Hard Knocks.
Suzy worked for many years as a lobbyist, first at Bristol Myers Squibb and then later for the Maryland Association of Realtors.  She loved dancing, listening to great live music, trips to Key West, Carribean Cruises, and traveling with her family in general, she always loved a beach destination where she could feel the sand on her toes and the sun on her skin, if there was ever a dog in the room,  especially a golden retriever…she would be giving it ALL of the cuddles.  All in all, she enjoyed living life to its very fullest.
She is survived by the love of her life and longtime partner, Stan Fletcher; her daughter/best friend, Ashley Mitchell of Edgewater; her brother, David Nicowski of Edgewater, her grandson whom she adored, Tristan Krauss, and her golden boy Gump.
A memorial gathering will be held on Sunday, April 13, from 10 to 11:30 AM at Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater.  A Celebration of Life will be held that same day from 12-4 PM at Stan and Joe’s Riverside, 4851 Riverside Drive, Galesville.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Suzy’s memory may be made to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 7460 Warren Parkway, Suite 150, Frisco, TX 75304.

 Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on the left side of this page.


All services for Carole will be private at this time. Please take a moment and leave the family a condolence or memory by using the memories tab on this page.

**** If you wish to watch the live stream of the service, use this link. <a href="https://events.locallive.tv/events/173774">John Casey Service</a>


With incredibly heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of John Francis Casey, who left us on March 27th, 2025. Known by many of his friends as just ‘Casey’, and by his family as ‘Johnny’, he was beloved by more people than we even know.

He was born in Bethesda, MD, on December 7, 1963, to Timothy and Mary Rose Casey. Growing up in Potomac, MD, he had incredible memories with his band of school friends and stayed close with many of them throughout his life.
He graduated from the University of Maryland with an economics degree and from Arizona State with a finance degree. He loved to tell stories of his adventures at Maryland and down in Arizona and the incredible people he spent his college years with.

He started his career with Clark Construction, had a brief stint as a pilot, and then established himself as a real estate developer in Washington, DC. The success of JC Development was closely related to who he was as a person, and showcased his hard work, determination, and the relationships he created with people. John couldn’t go anywhere in DC, Maryland, or Virginia without knowing someone through his friends, family, or business. Those lines, for him, often blurred together because he treated everyone he knew like his family.

He met Cyndi in 2018, and their beautiful love story never stopped after that day. There was never a dull moment as they filled their lives with fun, sunshine, travels, and laughter. He soon moved to Annapolis, and they got married in 2023.

John’s passion for life was contagious. Many would say he embodied work-life balance and when he wasn’t on a job site overseeing his projects, he would be out doing the things he loved. He spent time out on the water boating or jetskiing, in the mountains hiking or snow skiing, and outdoors playing tennis, golfing, or soaking in the sunshine with a good drink. He loved to travel and explore new corners of the world. He loved good music, delicious food, and spending time with people who made him smile. He loved telling crazy stories, and even if we had heard them a dozen times, they would still make everyone laugh. His presence and joy for life touched every person who knew him, and he will be impossible to forget.

John is survived by his wife Cyndi Hargrove Casey, his step-daughter Cierra Hargrove, his brother Tim Casey, and his mother Mary Rose Casey. Our hearts are broken from this unexpected loss, but we will forever hold him in our memories.

Friends and family are invited to visit and celebrate John’s life on Friday, April 4, from 4 to 7 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. His funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 5, at 10:30 am at St. John Neumann Catholic  Church, 620 N Bestgate Rd, Annapolis, MD 21401. There will be a celebration of life on Saturday following the service. 

In lieu of flowers, consider donating to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), to which we have linked the John Casey Memorial Fund, where you can leave a personal story or note, or follow this link at <a href= "https://supporting.afsp.org/campaign/John-Casey-Memorial-Fund">John Casey Memorial Fund</a> 

Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Dr. Rebecca Anne Weber passed away the morning of March 26, 2025 surrounded by her siblings and all her children.

Rebecca was born on May 1, 1951 at Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, PA, to Dr. John and Rebecca Weber. As a child, her father would take her on house calls with him where she discovered a love for medicine and the sciences that would shape the rest of her life.

Rebecca graduated Abington High School in Abington, PA in the class of 1969 where she was a member of the Future Scientists of America.  She graduated from Case Western Reserve University in the class of 1973 where she first met her future husband, Dr. Kenneth T. Riso. Rebecca continued her studies and love for science and medicine, graduating University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in the class of 1977, being one of the first women to be admitted into, and to graduate, the program. 

At the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, she would connect again with, and eventually marry, Dr. Kenneth Riso. After graduating, the two would open a joint practice together in Marco Island, FL where their daughter Katharine and son Mark would later be born. After Dr. Kenneth Riso earned his specialty in endodontics, the family moved to Wellington, FL where he opened an endodontic practice while she commuted to Ft. Lauderdale to provide dental services to the underprivileged. The family would later move to North Palm Beach, FL where the two would raise their children and where she would assist at her husband’s endodontic practice until her retirement.

Dr. Rebecca Anne Weber was an avid reader, devouring books not only in science, but in history and literature as well. As a young teen her favorite moments were reading through the complete works of Charles Dickens where she developed a lifetime love for English history and literature. In retirement, she rediscovered her love for golf and the couple moved to Mirasol in Palm Beach Gardens, FL where the two played together and made friendships that lasted a lifetime. 

After her husband’s retirement the two would move to Riva, MD where they would be closer to family and loved ones. While in Riva, she made lasting bonds at her local church and with her fellow members of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She loved traveling with her family, meeting new people on her long walks with her dog, and volunteering for a wide variety of causes.

Rebecca is preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Kenneth T. Riso and is survived by her two children, Katharine Alwishah and Mark Riso, her granddaughter Ranin Alwishah, her mother, Rebecca Weber, and her siblings Mary Paget, John Weber, and Joan Wilt.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation on Friday, April 4, from 12 to 1 pm at All Hallows Episcopal Brick Church, 3600 Solomons Island Rd. Edgewater, MD, 21037, where a funeral service will begin at 1 pm. Interment will follow at the Church cemetery.

Memorial donations in lieu of flowers may be made to All Hallows Episcopal Parish 3600 Solomons Island Rd. Edgewater, MD, 21037.  Online condolences may be offered using the Memories tab on this page.


Janet (Jan) was born on January 12,1937 to Lloyd and Clara Shumaker in Las Animas, Colorado. Jan moved several times in her early years, and, in her teens, to Alcatraz, where her father served as the Supervisor of the Prison Infirmary.  She commuted to San Francisco by ferry, graduated from Galileo High School and later attended the University of San Francisco. 
After her family moved to Texas, she attended Texas Woman’s University in Denton and graduated with a BA in Education from Texas Western University in El Paso in 1961. Later, she received her Master’s Degree after Texas Western had become The University of Texas, El Paso.  
She was teaching Elementary School in El Paso when she met her future husband, James Wood Bradner, III (Jim), a U.S. Army Lieutenant stationed at Fort Bliss, and they were married on August 24, 1962, at St. Clement’s Episcopal Church in El Paso. After her husband’s service in Vietnam in 1968, the family moved to Hawaii and spent three wonderful years there.
In 1972, the family was fortunate to settle near Annapolis in the welcoming Anchorage community. Jan soon found her calling at the Day School of St. Luke’s Episcopal Mission in Eastport, where she served as an assistant, shaping young minds with patience and care. She later joined the Providence Center, where her compassion and dedication led her from Case Manager to Assistant Manager of the Woodshop, helping individuals with disabilities find meaningful employment and purpose.
Jan was, at heart, an educator, a nurturer, and a gardener, someone with a remarkable gift for growing both people and plants. Her azaleas were the pride of her garden, blooming with the same quiet strength and beauty that she brought to her work and relationships. 
Never one to stop learning, Jan challenged herself with daily crosswords, pursued classes in American Sign Language, and even explored print design. Her life was defined by curiosity, kindness, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others.
She cherished time with her family, especially during the holidays, and found joy in the simple pleasures of life watching tennis, sharing good meals, and savoring her favorite dish: authentic chile rellenos.
In 2023, Jan and Jim moved to the Brightview Senior Living Community in Annapolis, where they made many new friends. In early 2025, Jan contracted a severe cardiac complication and she died peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
Jan is survived by her loving husband Jim and her devoted children: daughter Rebecca (David) Gray and her two children Aidan and Emma, and sons Benjamin (Mirta) and his son Jacob and step-daughters Jordan and Riley DeTar, and Christopher (Debbie) and his son and daughter Jack and Zoe. Predeceased by her oldest son, James, but he is survived by his wife Lou and their daughters Pierce and Caroline. 
Private services with the family will be held at St. James Episcopal Church in Lothian, Maryland, her final resting place. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Providence Center (Providence), an organization that continues Jan’s legacy by supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.







Doris Lorain Gibbs (Lorain), a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, aunt, friend and neighbor passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025, at the age of 93 in Severna Park, Maryland. Born in Washington, DC on January 6, 1932, Lorain is survived by 4 of her 5 children, Rob, Jeff, Laurie and Mike and her six grandchildren Jordan, Kara, Megan, Nicki, Levin and Marena. She was preceded in death by her cherished husband, of over 50 years, Bob, and her youngest daughter Paula.
 
Lorain was known for her devotion to family and her love of music.  She was a stay-at-home mom while her children were in school and is remembered by her children as “the best mom ever.” She later worked for Group Health Association and delivered Meals on Wheels helping others. 
Lorain played the ukulele and especially loved playing the piano in a raucous, ragtime style.  Playing, singing and listening to music gave her great joy and comfort, especially in her later years.
 
Lorain was an active member of the Amite Club for over 45 years, performing in their annual musical productions where her solos with the ukulele were always eagerly awaited and received thunderous applause. 
 
She will be deeply missed by her children and all who knew her. 
 
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer’s Association in her memory. 
 
She will be laid to rest with her husband Bob in the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville after a private service.

Inquiries to the family may be made to robgibbs54@gmail.com.
 


Geraldine "Geri" Elaine Scott, 88, a 24-year resident of Annapolis, MD, and previously of Long Island, NY, died on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Ginger Cove Health Center, following a brief illness.

Born November 30, 1936, in South Hampton, NY, to the late William and Antionette Ewers, Geri worked as a flight and private duty nurse. She was a longtime member of St. Mary's Parish in Annapolis, MD, and enjoyed travel, cooking, and gardening.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Donna Zdeb, and a sister, Leonore Sullivan.

Geri is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Steve K. Scott; three children, Steven (Nancy) Scott of Cape Cod, MA, Lisa Marie Scott of Davidson, NC; and Cheryl Cuthbertson of Lamoille, NV; a brother, Lionel Ewers of Killorglin, Ireland; and two grandchildren, Nicole and Alex Cuthbertson.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 10:30 am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N. Bestgate Rd., Annapolis, MD. Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

James (Jim) Arthur Earl, 92, passed away March 23, 2025 in Annapolis, Maryland. Jim was born on August 14, 1932, in Omaha, Nebraska, to James M. and Margaret H. Earl (née McGuire), both mathematics teachers at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

From a young age, Jim had an interest and aptitude in math and science, developing hobbies such as amateur radio and Morse code. At 17, he ventured from Omaha across the country to study Physics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology where he earned his PhD in 1958 studying cosmic ray physics under Bruno Rossi.

During his time at MIT, Jim met Sylvia Tailby who was attending Wheelock College. Jim and Sylvia married in 1955. Before Jim completed his studies at MIT, they had two sons, John (born 1955) and Jimmy (born 1957). After graduation in 1958, they had a brief stint in New Jersey, followed by a move to Minnesota where Jim accepted a lecturer position at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. As an experimental physicist, Jim made many trips to northern Canada to study cosmic rays. He flew balloons into the stratosphere equipped with sophisticated detectors that he designed and built to measure the extraterrestrial particles. After several iterations of his detectors, he discovered primary cosmic ray electrons, an important discovery of the time.

In 1965, Jim and Sylvia moved to Maryland where Jim took a professorship at the University of Maryland, College Park in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. Their third son, David, was born in 1967. In 1971 at age 39, Jim realized that experimental physics was becoming too physically demanding so decided to switch to theoretical physics. To facilitate this transition, he took a year-long sabbatical at the California Institute of Technology to study with theoretical physicist mentor Randy Jokipii. Jim and Sylvia’s fourth son, Matthew, was born in 1972 while they were there. 

In California, a transformative moment occurred when Jim attended an Andy Warhol exhibit, inspiring him to pursue a “hobby” in art. As a college professor at UMD, Jim was able to take one course per semester. A lifelong learner, he decided to take classes in Art, eventually earning a Bachelor’s degree. He began with silkscreen printing and later became proficient in pen-and-ink drawing, watercolor, and printmaking. Until a few years ago, Jim was often seen in the print shop at Anne Arundel Community College, diligently transforming his sketchbook drawings into prints. His work has appeared in numerous exhibits including Maryland Hall Galleries, BWI Airport, and Maryland Federation of Art. Along the way he also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science in the 1980s, but art was his true passion.

Jim and Sylvia moved to the Annapolis area in 1995, before Jim’s retirement in 2000. They became leaders in the philanthropic community through their charitable foundation, the Helena Foundation. They supported numerous organizations focusing on the arts, education, land conservation, and healthcare. They were instrumental in the establishment of the James and Sylvia Earl SAIL Center at Anne Arundel Medical Center, the Chesapeake Conservancy Earl Conservation Center, and the renovation of the James Brice House in Annapolis.

Jim is survived by his wife of 70 years, Sylvia; four sons, John, Jimmy (Marie), David
(Bridget), and Matthew (Diane); nine grandchildren, Hannah Miller, Natalie Earl,
Rosellen Earl, Kathryn McCloney, Logan Earl, James Joseph Earl, Elizabeth Earl,
Austin Earl, and Matthew Earl; and one great-grandchild, Thomas McCloney.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jim’s life at the Golf Club at South River, 3451 Solomon’s Island Road, Edgewater, MD 21037, on Thursday, April 24 from 5 to 7:30 PM.

Daniel “Danny” E. Wishard, 64, a 30-plus year resident of Annapolis, MD and previously of Landover Hills, MD passed away on March 23, 2025 due to complications of surgery. Born on November 23, 1960 in Cheverly, MD to the late Norman Eugene Wishard and Lillian Lee Wishard, he graduated high school from Bladensburg Senior High School before entering the workforce. He most recently worked for Washington Gasoline Co. as a corrosion protectant and leak inspector. Danny was interested in cars, trucks, and motorcycles, especially Harleys. He was known by many as the “Mayor of Sydney Terrace”, and could strike up a conversation with anyone. In addition to his parents, Danny was preceded in death by his brother, Robert E. Wishard. He is survived by his brothers, Lee Wishard of Sebring, FL and Bernard Wishard of Vienna, Austria. Friends are invited to celebrate Danny's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Monday, April 7 from 10 am until his funeral service begins at 11 am. Interment will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Suitland, MD. Online tributes and condolences may be made by using the memories link on the left of this page.  

“Kick-off”- Linwood Lee Smith was born on November 28, 1943, in Halifax, North Carolina to Annie Bertha Smith and Henry Powell. Linwood spent his early childhood in Scotland Neck, North Carolina with his parents and his five brothers and one sister- Charles, James, Vernon, Melvin, Earl, and Shirley.

“First-Down”- Linwood was an active person and loved his family. He was educated in the public school system in North Carolina and eventually migrated to Washington, DC and lived with his sister, Shirley until he got on his feet.

“Second-Down”-Linwood, now a young adult, was extremely good with his hands and eventually found his passion in the construction business. He was employed with Tuckman-Barbee Construction until his retirement in 2012.

“Third-Down”, at this point in his life, he met and married the love of his life, Delores Elizabeth Jefferson. After many years of living in Washington, DC, Linwood and Delores bought their dream home in Mitchellville, MD. They were married for thirty-five years, until her passing in October 2003. They loved their three children- Hope Jefferson, Darron Williams, and Dellin Smith wholeheartedly.

“Fourth and 19”-Linwood’s favorite hobby was playing the lottery (which he won many times over) and his favorite number was 419! Linwood enjoyed watching sports, especially his beloved Washington Redskins, now known as the Washington Commanders. Every Sunday during football season, you could find him with his Redskins cap on and sitting in front of the TV.

On Sunday, March 23, 2025, God called our beloved father, Linwood, home to rest in His presence. He leaves to treasure the wonderful memories of his life his three children Hope Jefferson, Darron Williams, and Dellin Smith; two daughters-in- law, Michelle and Nicole; eight grandchildren, Darron, Holton, Ryan, Danaya, Julien, Isaiah, Madison, and Jordan, and many other caring relatives and friends.


Relatives and friends are invited to Linwood's Life Celebration on Thursday, April 3, 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.

David Bruce Evans, Jr. of Camp Springs, Maryland passed away March 23, 2025, at his home. Born on May 7, 1979, in Takoma Park, Maryland, he is survived by his parents, David B. Evans, Sr and Helen B. Randolph, his beloved niece Kennedy Evans and nephew Michael Evans Jr., his “adopted” sister Monique Noble, mentor Charles Spadone and a true “band of brothers”. He was predeceased by his brother, Michael B. Evans, Sr.

“Butchy” as he was known to his friends, attended the Talented and Gifted classes at Valley View Elementary School, Walker Mill Middle School and went into the International Baccalaureate Program at Suitand High School. He moved to Frederick where he graduated from Thomas Johnson High School in 1997 and attended Frederick Community College.

He began his work experience in Prince George’s County, MD, at Friendly High school as a Night Cleaner. Within seven years he advanced to a Building Supervisor position and gradually moved up to become a Building Supervisor IV. He genuinely enjoyed his work for 26 years.

Butchy was an avid Redskins and Nationals fan. He managed to get season tickets to the ‘Skins and for many years enjoyed tailgating with his friends. He never missed a game!

His other love was his family and their place in the mountains of Largent, WV. He started fly fishing at the age of ten and rode his 4-Wheeler like a pro. His pride and joy was always his nightly campfire. He will be missed there by his Uncle Steve, Aunt Donita and Cousins Mathew, Mark, and Genesis.

Walter Linwood Sykes Jr., age 82, ended a long battle with Parkinson’s disease, passing away peacefully with family by his side on March 22, 2025 in Edgewater, Maryland. 

Born on October 17, 1942 in Norfolk, Virigina to Walter Linwood Sykes Sr. and Catherine Williams Sykes, Walt was a proud 1964 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute where he  earned a degree in electrical engineering. After graduation, Walt served honorably in the U.S. Army and then began his lifelong career with the National Security Agency and Booz-Allen Hamilton.

Walt was preceded in death by his loving wife, Karen Lavonne Sykes. He is survived by his son, Jeff Sykes (Meghan) of Edgewater, MD; his daughter, Jackie Russell (Bill) of Annapolis, MD; his daughter, Erin Herring (Isaac) of Tuttle, OK; his cousin, Bernie Capps of Woodbridge, VA; and eleven grandchildren: Jack, Caroline, and Henry Sykes; Hunter and Madeline Russell; and Morgan, Noah, Sam, Jude, Simon, and Luke Herring. 

Walt was an avid golfer, dog-lover, and a life-long boater on the Chesapeake Bay and the rivers of Virginia and Maryland. Over the years, alumni trips, and many reunions, he treasured the brotherhood and camaraderie of his VMI “Brother Rats” and was a loyal member of VMI Keydet Club. Above all, Walt cherished quality time and holidays spent with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren. Attending sporting events, recitals, concerts, and playing games with them brought him endless joy.

Walt’s kind heart, gentle spirit, and devotion to his family will be forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Walt’s honor to the VMI Keydet Club Scholarship Fund online at vmialumni.org/give or by mail to VMI Alumni Agencies, Keydet Scholarship Fund, PO Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Sunday, April 6, 2025, from 11:00-12:00 p.m., with funeral services immediately following from 12:00-12:30 p.m., at Kalas Funeral Home, 2973 Solomons Island Rd, Edgewater, MD. 

Burial services will held at 2:00 p.m. at Chesapeake Highlands Memorial Gardens, Port Republic, MD in Calvert County.


Brian William Gallagher, 40, passed away at his home in Derwood, MD on March 22, 2025. Brian had been a resident of Boulder, CO for the past several years until recently moving back to his home state of Maryland. He grew up in the Davidsonville area, attending Davidsonville Elementary, Central Middle, and Archbishop Spalding High School before heading north to play hockey and football at The Governor's Academy in Byfield, MA. He continued his education and hockey career at Connecticut College, graduating in 2008.  From there, he worked in sales in the insurance industry while living in Baltimore and volunteered with a Pit Bull rescue organization where he adopted his loyal dog, Brooks. He then put his leadership skills to use as a foreman and project manager in the Washington area polished concrete industry. Brian’s journey led him to active participation in AA and the recovery community where his desire to help others touched many people and led him to form many deep and valued friendships along the way. The Flatirons Community Church offered him a spiritual home in Lafayette, CO, and he found peace and inspiration there. 
Brian is survived by his parents, Jim and Debbie Gallagher; his sister, Liz Phelan; his brother-in-law Matthew Phelan, and his nephews and niece, Jack, Caleb, Owen and Mae Phelan. He will also be deeply missed by the many members of his extended family. 
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Brian's life at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W. Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD on Tuesday, April 1. The family will be receiving visitors in the Narthex at Holy Family from 10:30 to 11:30 am, immediately followed by Mass of the Resurrection.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary, Erie, CO (<a href="https://funraise.org/give/Luvin-Arms-Animal-Sanctuary/0e077f19-d295-4200-acae-598a62b31e9a/">online here</a>).
Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

Joan Ellen (née Borgeson) Jarriel, 89, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2025. As the eldest daughter of George and Eleanor (née Raymond) Borgeson, she was born January 24, 1936, in Saint Louis, Missouri. Joan will be remembered as a wise, kind, and sensitive wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend.
Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 67 years, Tom. Joan and Tom were wed in a small ceremony and spent their early days as an Army couple at Ft Monmouth, NJ, later living in Texas, Georgia, Potomac, Maryland, Edgewater, Maryland, and Fort Pierce, Florida. She is survived by her three devoted sons: Michael (Marilyn), Stephen (Lisa), and Jeffrey (Catherine). Joan and Tom took great pride in their grandchildren—Jenna (Matt), Ryan (Holly), Tess (Craig), Bailey (Ben), Matthew, Kaylin, and Marina—and their great-grandchild, Luke.
The eldest of three, Joan is survived by her dear brothers, Don (Marianne) and Bob (Beth), whose constant love and support brought her joy throughout her life.
As Tom’s career took him across the United States and around the world, Joan managed their family and home with grace, always ready to welcome him back with open arms. Her talents as a homemaker and bookkeeper were exceptional, from her expertise in meal planning and financial management to her impeccable sense of style in decorating, gardening, and fashion. Joan’s keen eye for color and detail was a hallmark of her life, evident in her beautifully curated home and her creative pursuits, particularly her artistic paintings.
Family time was Joan’s greatest treasure. She maintained close and loving relationships with her extended family and friends, often graciously hosting gatherings in her homes. Joan and Tom also shared a deep passion for their dogs, including a Collie, a Scottie, two Golden Retrievers, and finally their cherished Portuguese Water Dog, Skipper, who gave them focus and many opportunities to walk in their later years.
Joan’s warmth, creativity, and devotion to her family and friends will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
A private celebration of life will be hosted at a later date. For those who wish to make a donation in memory of Joan, suggested charities include Humane Society of Treasure Coast (online <a href="https://hstc1.org/Donate">here</a>), Treasure Coast Food Bank (online <a href"https://treasurecoastfoodbank.salsalabs.org/give/index.html">here</a>), and Doctors without Borders (online <a href"https://donate.doctorswithoutborders.org/secure/2025-local-teams-sdv-lt?ms=ADD2502U4U94&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=BRAND.DWB_CKMSF-BRAND.DWB-GS-GS-ALL-DonateDWB.E-BO-ALL-RSA-RSARefresh.2-ONETIME&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw-qi_BhBxEiwAkxvbkPwNAVhE5l1AHeT49XbJuwqLSrAV9cDTLXiXH7H4K1T21bt_bjqUFhoCl20QAvD_BwE">here</a>).

Fotini “Fanoula” Rossley, 79, a 20-year resident of Odenton, MD and previously of Alabama passed away on March 20, 2025 at Howard County General Hospital due to congestive heart failure and a five-year battle with Alzheimer’s. Born on October 2, 1945 in Larissa, Greece to Christos Gagatsui and the late Zoe Haritake, she received her BS in Sociology from the University of Maryland. She enjoyed her career as a teacher’s assistant for Department of Defense schools in Ramstein, Germany, where she worked for four years. In her spare time, Fanoula enjoyed baking and cooking delicious meals. She is survived by her beloved husband of 48 years, David Rossley; her son, Chrisovalandis F. Williams of Stratham, NH; her brother, Dimitri Gagatsui of Trikala, Greece; and her sister, Maria Karagiannis of Palamas, Greece. Friends are invited to celebrate Fanoula's life on Thursday, March 27 at Ss. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 2747 Riva Rd., Annapolis, MD from 11 am until her funeral service begins at 12 noon. Interment will follow at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Cemetery in Annapolis. Online condolences may be offered using the Memories tab on this page.

Tracy Mark Rollins was born on July, 8, 1961, in Washington, DC to the late Joseph Rollins and Alfrieda Rollins. He attended D.C Public Schools and graduated from Friendly High School in Fort Washington, MD.

Tracy started his career with Manhattan Porsche and Audi. He later joined the Federal Government, working for Smithsonian Institution in 1984 as a Material Handler. Tracy enjoyed being out the office, driving his work truck all over the DMV area. Tracy touched the lives of countless Smithsonian employees. He was a dedicated employee up until his retirement in June of 2023.

Tracy was always known for making people laugh. He was a people person and everywhere he went, someone always recognized Tracy or he sees someone he knows. He loved to cook and prepare different meals for his family. He also enjoyed watching “Diners Drive-In and Dives” every Friday. He was a dedicated football fan and he loved the Washington Commanders and the Baltimore Ravens. He always planned his Superbowl meals weeks in advanced of the game. Tracy also enjoyed watching Western and Action movies on his 72 inch tv and loud theater system.

Tracy departed this life on Thursday, March 20, 2025. He was survived by his wife, Michele, his three daughters, Whitney, Tia, and Tori, his four grandchildren, Jaden, Nazir, Trinity, and Autumn, one son-in-law, Pierre Williamson, and his brother, Christopher Ratchford, and a host of Aunts, Uncles, nieces, and nephews, and other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Thea Rollins.

Family and friends are invited to Tracy's life celebration from 11 AM until the start of the funeral service at 12 PM on Friday, March 28th at the Kalas Funeral Home:6160 Oxon Hill Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745. 

Stanley Joseph Stankiewicz died on March 20th, 2025, after suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for several years.  He was 89 years old.  He is survived by wife Mary, son Joseph, daughter-in-law Sandra, and three grandchildren: Joel, Isabel, and Timothy.

He was born on July 27, 1935, to Anna Rypsky and William Stankiewicz in Syracuse, NY. He grew up working in his father and uncle’s garage and was an Eagle Scout. He graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He also was on the crew team.

After graduation, he moved to Washington, D.C., and began a career working for the Navy Department.  Stan had many interests but especially enjoyed anything that had to do with water. As a member of the Potomac Boat Club, he and his buddy Roger Van deMeulebrocke won many medals racing canoes. He also enjoyed sailing.

Stan was always working around the house and completed many renovation projects. Even on vacation, he spent his time finishing the beach house.

Later in life he spent time volunteering with the Coast Guard Auxiliary and in the workshop at the College Park Aviation Museum. He was a devout Catholic and served as a Eucharistic minister. He is most remembered as a nice guy always willing to lend a hand.


A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 10:30 am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620. North Bestgate Road, Annapolis, MD 21401. Interment at Lakemont Memorial Gardens, Davidsonville, MD.


In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Stan's memory to the St. Vincent de Paul Society at St. Mary's Annapolis, 109 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis, MD 21401 or online <a href="http://www.svdpannapolis.com/donate.html">HERE</a>

Gregory Ervin Ferrence, 60, of Brandywine, MD., went home to be with the lord March 19, 2025. Born June 19, 1964 he was the son of William “Bill” Ferrence and Violet “Gertie” Ferrence.

He spent his life working in the family excavation business starting with father and continued with his sons. He was business minded with a strong work ethic. He came to know the Lord and loved his church family at Independent Baptist Church of Clinton, MD. The church was an instrumental part of his life. He enjoyed the outdoors with his sons and grandsons. He looked forward to visiting his family in West Virginia.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bill Ferrence. He is survived by his mother, Gertie Ferrence; wife Stacie Ferrence; sons, Dustin Ferrence (Lauren Ferrence); Cody Ferrence (Jonie Ferrence); Jason Ferrence (Meg Palfrey), and grandchildren Aralyn, Wade, Colt, Reid, Barrett, Mattie, and Violet.

Visitation will be held at Independent Baptist Church of Clinton, MD on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at 5pm with services beginning at 7pm. Private burial will occur at a later date in West Virginia. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Independent Baptist Church of Clinton, MD, 9255 Piscataway Road, Clinton, MD 20735.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Susana's life on Friday, April 4 from 2-8 PM at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745. 

Obituaries

Christine Nicodemus

Edith Handley

Karen Doyle

Melissa Wampler

Susan Mitchell

Carole Wilhelm

John Casey

Ofelia Escano

Rebecca Weber

Janet Bradner

Doris Gibbs

Geraldine Scott

James Earl

Danny Wishard

Linwood Smith

David Evans, Jr.

Walter Sykes, Jr.

Brian Gallagher

Joan Jarriel

Fotini Rossley

Tracy Rollins

Stanley Stankiewicz

Gregory Ferrence

Susana Del Rosario