Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Tom always referred to himself as being “just a poor boy from Northeast saved by God’s grace.” Born August 9, 1935, in Washington, DC, he believed that through the early intervention and guidance of the nuns in the Catholic church, he found Jesus and the love of God. At just 5 years old, he was sent to live with Ma and Pa Weedon in Richardsville, VA. This family took him in during the summers and treated him as their own. His “brother,” Edgar Weedon, and family, were always a part of his life and remained close.

Tom was a faithful member of Heritage Baptist Church for the past 21 years where he taught Sunday School and was a Deacon. Tom and Dianne were married in the First Baptist Church of New Carrollton, MD, where they raised their two children and were extremely instrumental in the growth and support of the congregation. Tom took over running the Northeast Rescue Mission in the early 1980s. Through the mission and for over 40 years, Tom was instrumental in seeing that people were fed and clothed. His daughter joined the board of the mission in 2020 and took over running it in 2022. He raised his family and led his life by example and through the teachings of God’s word, and his faith and love of Jesus were paramount to all else. For him, God was always first followed by country and then family.

Tom enlisted and served nine years in the District of Columbia Army National Guard as a Reservist.

Tom was a proud graduate of McKinley Technical High School and was one of the Golden Techites—a McKinley alumni association Tom and other graduates helped create 50 years ago. He began the Antonielli Family Scholarship, which was awarded to a student entering college with the intention of studying Information Systems Technology or Education.

Wherever Tom was he was sure to greet people with a smile and, often, a song! He was known for treating all people with love and kindness and believed that all people were the same and deserved to be treated with respect. The name Antonielli is not easily lost, and his family can’t go anywhere without hearing, “I know your Dad.”

Tom was a teacher in Prince George’s public schools for over 40 years in the business education department. He taught and mentored students who were often at risk of dropping out and losing their way. He was firm and held his standards high, teaching in every interaction that being on time, honest, and forthright would get you far! Last September he attended the 50th Reunion for Parkdale High School. The number of students whose lives he touched was immeasurable. Many of his students have gone on to be business owners and tops in their fields, and they attribute their successes to his guidance and unwavering belief that they were worth fighting for and believed in them doing their best. Tom also taught at Strayer University in the District of Columbia part-time for over 40 years. Again, always guiding and directing, he supported and was in
awe of the women (often the ones taking his classes) who were single mothers, working full-time, and getting their education at night.

Tom loved the American standards and enjoyed singing along to Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and the like. He lived his life on his terms and like Frank sings, “he did it his way.” He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Dianne; his two children, Tom, Jr. (55) and Jenny (50) and his four grandchildren, Wade (24) and wife Zoe, Jake (22), Sam (20) and Liam (19).

Friends are invited to celebrate Thomas's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Friday, August 18 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. Funeral service will be held at Heritage Baptist Church, 1740 Forest Dr., Annapolis, MD on Saturday, August 19 at 11 am. Interment will be at Richardsville United Methodist Church Cemetery in Richardsville, VA on Monday at 11 am. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Charles Michael “Mike” Titsworth, 80, a fourteen-year resident of Davidsonville, MD and formerly of Annapolis, died of heart failure on Sunday, August 13 at his home. Born on April 24, 1943 in Sanford, FL to the late USN Lt. Commander Wilbur Wiggs Titsworth and Wilda Bradley Titsworth, Mike attended Oklahoma University and Cornell University. He was a man of Christian faith, genealogist, history buff, an avid train collector and a member of the Annapolis Rotary. Two great joys in Michael’s life were sponsoring midshipmen from the Naval Academy and going on vacation with all the grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. 

He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Donna M. Titsworth; his sons, Robert Glenn (Teri) Titsworth of Choctaw, OK and Michael Matthew Titsworth of Ellicott City, MD; his sister, Patricia (William) Morgan of Virginia Beach, VA and his grandchildren, Robert Kyle (Lanie), Michael Brian, Alicia Ryan and Jessica Leigh Titsworth. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jennifer Leigh Titsworth. 

Memorial service will be held at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Tuesday, August 22 at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Riva Volunteer Fire Department, 3123 Riva Rd., Riva, MD 21140.

Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

All services for Cathryn will be private at this time. Please take a moment and leave a message by using the memories tab on this page.

Severino Batoon Benzon, known to his friends and family as “Benny” passed away on August 12, 2023, at the age of 85 surrounded by his loving wife and family.

Benny was born January 8, 1938, in Manabo Abra, Philippines, the son of the
late Longino Benzon and Agapita Batoon Alvarado, he was the eldest of eight siblings. Growing up, he was a dedicated student, athlete, and enjoyed singing and drama. After high school, he attended University of the East in Manila, majoring in accounting and business administration. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1960. Benny was a proud US Navy and Vietnam War veteran. In 1962, he met the love of his life, Mamerta “Maye” Padilla Silverio, and they got married on October 7, 1963, in Baltimore, MD. He was a proud father to five children and six grandchildren.

After his service in the Navy, he became an insurance agent with Acacia Mutual Life
Insurance Company and was a five-time member of their President’s Club. After a
successful career, he retired and became a successful government contractor and local business owner. He was active in local politics and civic affairs, and was an elected member of the Prince George’s Democratic Central Committee (At Large). He proudly served as post commander for VFW post 983, 1978-79. He also was a founding member and former President of the Ilocano Society of America. Later in life, he was an avid gardener and enjoyed spending time entertaining his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mamerta “Maye” Padilla Silverio”; his children: Joy Nodland (Borge), Caroline, Sally Flores (Rene Kieth), Severino Jr. “Jojo” (Kristen), Jeffrey Hilario; six grandchildren: Celaya and Carson Kirchner, Melody Flores, Mia, Daniel, and Carter Benzon; and siblings: Eduardo Benzon, Claudio Benzon, Pedro Alvarado, Juliana Alvarado, Domingo Alvarado, as well as countless nieces and nephews in both the United States and the Philippines.

He is predeceased by his father Longino Benzon, his mother Agapita Batoon Alvarado, his brother Raymondo, and his sister Bernadita.

The visitation will be held at Kalas Funeral Home: 6160 Oxon hill road Oxon Hill, MD 217045 on Thursday, August 24th, 2023, from 2:00-8:00 PM. A funeral mass will be offered at St. Columba Catholic Church: 7800 Livingston road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 on Friday, August 25th, 2023, at 10:30 AM. Interment will be at Maryland Veteran Cemetery Crownsville: 1122 Sunrise Beach road Crownsville, MD 21032 at 1:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life Repast, at Harmony Hall Arts Center from 2:00-4:00 PM. 

On Saturday, August 12, 2023, Michael Thomas Shekletski (Mike), passed away at the age of 60 after a sudden, but short illness.

Mike was born on June 2, 1963, in Rockville, Maryland to Robert and Marilyn Shekletski. He attended Sherwood High School, received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from West Virginia University in 1985, and was a practicing Certified Public Accountant in Maryland before starting his own business.

Mike had a long and successful career as the owner and operator of MainScapes, Inc. for over 25 years. After retiring in 2021, he enjoyed traveling with his wife, quality time with his sons, and being out on the water captaining the Main eEscape out of West Ocean City, Maryland. Mike enjoyed spending time in the Florida Keys and was soon to become a resident of Duck Key, Florida.

His family paid this tribute to him, “Mike will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and devoted friend. His outgoing personality led to lifelong friendships gained throughout the years and his passion for fishing and life will live on in our memories. Our words cannot express how sorely he will be missed”.
 
He is survived by his wife, Julie Shekletski, son Matthew and wife Margaret, son Robert and significant other Samantha, son Michael Jr., and Julie’s daughters Lauren, her daughter Caitlyn and husband Michael, granddaughter Ava.

A gathering to celebrate his life will be held at a future date by invitation only.

Catherine Anne Fortwengler, a resident of Queenstown, MD and previously of Edgewater and Hillsmere, passed away peacefully at age 93 on August 11, 2023.

She was born on December 1, 1929 in Washington, DC, and was a graduate of McKinley Tech, where she lettered in basketball.

Catherine was a homemaker and a longtime parishioner of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church. She loved her exercise classes, reading and boating around Annapolis.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 72 years in July, 2023, Victor Fortwengler and her son, Richard Fortwengler.

She is survived by her children, Mary Jo (Ken) Smith of Oregon City, OR, Nancy (Tom) Meringolo of Centreville, MD and David Fortwengler of Gaffney, SC; daughter in law, Sheila Skipper, eight grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Catherine’s life on Monday, August 14, 2023 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 515 Loch Haven Road, Edgewater, MD 21037. A viewing will be held from 11am to 1pm followed by a Mass of Christian Burial. Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, Inc. 3700 Koppers Street, Baltimore MD 21227. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.


Relatives and friends are invited to Edward's Life Celebration on Monday, August 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745.  A service and interment will take place in Mississippi. 

Relatives and friends are invited to John's Life Celebration on Monday, August 21 from 10 a.m. until the start of the funeral service at 12 noon at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Interment to follow at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery, Suitland Rd., Suitland, MD. 

Ralph “Buddy” Campbell Jr., 85, a lifelong resident of Edgewater and Annapolis, died August 10, 2023 of natural causes at Hospice of the Chesapeake in Severna Park, MD. Buddy was born on January 10, 1938 in Annapolis, MD to the late Ralph Earle and Helen Elvear Campbell. He grew up with his five siblings in Bay Ridge, swimming and crabbing off the family pier on the Chesapeake Bay. Buddy graduated from Annapolis High School in 1956, attended the University of Maryland, served in the Army, and returned to work in the family beer business.  

He worked for his father at Campbell Distributing, a company he eventually took over. After he sold the family business in 1987, Buddy stayed in the beer industry, working for other distributing companies until his retirement. He enjoyed working local festivals, including the Seafood Festival and especially the Maryland Renaissance Festival, which he was part of for over 30 years. 

Buddy was the definition of a waterman. His favorite times were early mornings spent on his boat crabbing and fishing on the South River. Rain or shine, help or no help, Buddy would be out on that water during crabbing or fishing season. Buddy was an enthusiastic sports fan. He was an avid supporter of the Baltimore Orioles, Baltimore Colts, and Baltimore Ravens. If a sporting event was occurring, it was playing on his TV. 

Buddy married his wife, Joy, in 1961 and settled down in Southdown Shores in Edgewater, MD. He was a proud family man. Anyone who knew him knew how much he loved his children and grandchildren. He spent his retirement happily as “Pop,” surrounded by the love of his four granddaughters. Buddy was fiercely loyal. He cared deeply about his friends and was the guy who would give you the shirt off his back with no questions asked.

Buddy is predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Catherine “Joy” Hays Campbell. He is survived by his daughter Julie (Duane) Gels; his two sons Rick Campbell and Danny (Dina) Campbell; and his four granddaughters Sarah, Rachel, Laura, and Catherine. 

There are no formal services planned. However, in typical Buddy style, a casual celebration of life will be held at O’Loughlin’s Restaurant and Pub (1258 Bay Dale Dr. Arnold 21012) on Sunday, August 20, 2023 from 3pm-5pm. Please stop by to reminisce, listen to his favorite music, and have one last round on Buddy. 

Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family using the Memories tab on this page.

Wanda Ruth Earnshaw, age 90, of Edgewater, MD passed away on Wednesday, August 9, 2023. She retired from the plastics plant in Odenton where she met her husband, Bill. She enjoyed working with her hands: sewing, crocheting, knitting and cooking. She had a recipe for nearly anything. Wanda especially loved spending time with her great-great-great nephew, Gideon. She was preceded in death by her parents, Birdie May and Bige Collins; her siblings, Max, Wilbur, James, Olin, Haze, Kathleen and Ula V; and her dear husband, Bill Earnshaw. She is survived by her great-niece, Shelby and her children; her great-great niece, Niki and her great-great-great nephew, Gideon. Friends are invited to celebrate Wanda's life on Monday, August 14 from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. Interment will follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Davidsonville, MD. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Jonathon “Jon” Wallace Kennedy, 78, of Forest Heights, MD, passed away on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at home surrounded by his family.

He was born on April 7, 1945 in Fountain Hill, Pennsylvania to the late Rev. Elmer Diehl Kennedy, Sr. (Founder of El Shaddai Assembly of God Church, Nazareth, PA) and the late Madeline (Wallace) Kennedy. He was the step-son of the late Ruth (Muffley) Flamisch Kennedy.

Upon graduation from High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1962.
While serving in Vietnam, Jon met and later married his wife Muoi “Thiem” Tang on December 25, 1968, in Siagon, Vietnam. They would have celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary this Christmas Day. From this union came two children, Marilyn and Jonathon II.

In January 1980, Jon moved his family to Forest Heights, MD where he lived until his death. Jon was active in his town and was proud to put Forest Heights rather than Oxon Hill as his place of residence.

Jon was a champion for the “Underdog”. In his eyes, right was right and wrong was wrong. He didn’t care who you were, he would speak out on your behalf if he felt that you were being wronged. He would find ways to help those in need and never wanted any recognition. His family and friends knew that if they needed help with anything he was the man to go to.

Jon proudly served in the U.S. Navy for twenty years (1962-1982). His tours included Italy; Siagon, Vietnam; Taipei, Taiwan; Arlington, VA and Saudi Arabia. Upon retiring on April 30, 1982, as a Chief Petty Officer, he worked as an Office Manager for Techplan Corporation, Arlington, VA and a Nurse Recruiter for Hadley Memorial Hospital, Washington D.C.

On September 30, 1993, Jon turned his lifelong hobby of stamp collecting, from the age of five, into a business. For the last 30 years, he was the proud owner of Kennedy’s Stamps and Coins in Springfield, VA. He ran his business solo for many years until his wife Thiem retired from her job to assist him with daily operations. Their son, Jonathon assisted on weekends and categorized inventory. Jon ran an eclectic shop, but one thing that was for sure, he knew where everything was kept.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved wife Muoi; his daughter Marilyn (Jason) Baytop of Manchester, MD, his son Jonathon II, of Forest Heights, MD; his “favorite” grandson Jason Baytop, Jr., of Midlothian, VA and his “favorite” granddaughter Ciara Baytop, of Glen Burnie, MD; sister Cathrine Heckman, of Enid, OK; half-sister Rose (Brian) Kromer, of Nazarath, PA; sister-in-law Omegene Kennedy, of Nazarath, PA; four sisters-in law; six brothers-in-law; four step-brothers; two step-sisters; and many nieces, nephews, and their extended families.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Friday, August 25th from 6-8 PM at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory: 6160 Oxon Hill road Oxon Hill, MD 20745. There will be another opportunity to gather on the following day, Saturday August 26th from 10-11 AM. The funeral service will begin at 11 AM on Saturday August 26th at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory. 

Evangelist and servant of the Most High, Norma Jean Harris transitioned
peacefully on August 8, 2023 in her home in Upper Marlboro, Maryland at
the age of 85 years young.

Norma was born in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania to Edward Harris and Marvella
Daniels on April 5, 1938. She attended Pittsburgh Public Schools in
Allegheny County. As she transitioned to adulthood she obtained
certifications in accounting and contract administration which led to a 40
year career as a Contract Administrator for various organizations in the
Tidewater and Washington DC Metropolitan areas.

What gave her the most joy in life was being in service to others. As an
evangelist for the Lord, she shepherded many on their spiritual journey
teaching Bible Study, Vacation Bible School and Sunday School for children
and “yesterday’s children” throughout her anointed life.

Norma was also an outstanding baker and blessed many with her delectable
cakes, pies, cookies, and other tasty treats. Other past time hobbies included
shopping, gardening, canning vegetables and fruits, playing [and winning]
Pokeno, bowling, swimming and helping raise her grandchildren.

Norma is preceded in death by her parents, Edward Harris and Marvella
Daniels, Fannie Harris (step-mother), Marvin Harris (brother), Pamela
Robinson-Billups (daughter), and Marcus Reese (grandson).

Norma is survived by her three children, Angelica Lee (William Lee), Keith
Robinson (Sharon Robinson), and Tiffani Harris-Davis (Herbert Davis Jr)
grandchildren, Marriah Lee, Tywon Taylor, Vanessa Lorke, Matthew Lee,
Morgan Lee, Jocelyn Davis and Perri Davis, and 13 great grandchildren.
All of whom will miss her dearly but rejoice she has returned home to her
Lord and Savior.

Expressions of sympathy will be received by Gethsemane United Methodist
Church, 910 Addison Road South, Capitol Heights, MD 20743. Norma’s
homegoing service will be held August 18, 2023 from 10 am – 12 pm at
Gethsemane United Methodist Church.

Linda Frances “Gada” Lee, 77, a 54-year resident of Edgewater, MD, passed away peacefully at home on August 7, 2023.  She was born on July 28, 1946 to the late Joseph and Barbara Herbert.  Gada enjoyed a 30-year accounting career, working at Baltimore Door and Frame Company and Supplies Unlimited.  She was a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Edgewater.  A dog lover at heart, Gada also enjoyed playing cards, traveling and going on vacations.  Her greatest joy and purpose for living though was her family; she treasured every moment she spent with them.

Gada was preceded in death by her loving husband, Van Orden T. Lee who passed away in 2019 and her sister, Kathy Plumb.  Gada is survived by her daughters, Jeni Kneessi and Kristie (Brian Vaeth) Conway, both of Edgewater; “her son”, Brick (Kristin) Kerge of Wilmington, NC and her stepson, Van “Skipper” Lee, also of Edgewater; seven grandchildren, Devin (Lauren), Alec (Taylor), Kendall (Cody), Michelle, Kortney, Kimberly and Jessie; one great-grandchild; her sister, Mary Glenn of Florida and her devoted chocolate lab, Nestle.

Friends are invited to celebrate Gada’s life with her family from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, August 10 at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater.  Mass of the Resurrection will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 11 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 515 Loch Haven Road, Edgewater.  Burial will be scheduled later.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: <a href="https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?promo=srch&sc_dcm=58700006946881487&sc_cid=kwp&sc_cat=b&ds_rl=1285465&ds_rl=1291300&msclkid=f240613f5ae115ed70c005ecde915591&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=M%20-%20Core%20Brand%20EX%20EL&utm_term=st%20jude%20children%27s%20research%20hospital&utm_content=PM_PR_Dig_Srch_PM_AO_US_Nat_MS_M-Ads_LF_-_-_-_SERP-Exct_Srch-B_-_-_-_Core_-_EL_-_-_Srch&gclid=f240613f5ae115ed70c005ecde915591&gclsrc=3p.ds">St. Jude Children’s Hospital</a>, <a href="https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/donate-now/">
Hospice of the Chesapeake</a> or the <a href="https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/AACSPCA">SPCA of Anne Arundel County</a>.

Online condolences may be offered using the Memories tab on the left side of this page.




It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Aristedes Pelekanos on August 6, 2023. Aristedes was born in Yialousa, Cyprus July 11, 1944 to Andreas Pelekanos and Kakoullou Papadopoulos Pelekanos. When he was five, the family moved to England before coming to New York onboard the ITALIA from Southampton with his mother and sister, Theano, on June 3rd, 1953. He spent most of his life living in New York before marrying his wife, Maria Stylianou. Married on December 31, 1983, they welcomed their children Andreas and Stella in New York before moving to Annapolis, MD in 1986. Shortly after they welcomed their 3rd child Christos Kyriakos on the 5th anniversary of their marriage.

While in New York he worked for Western Union installing security systems up and down the East coast for many years. When he moved the family to Annapolis he worked as a copy machine repairman for Minolta before starting his own company, Maryland Business Systems. He then worked at the Uniform shop of the United States Naval Academy, where he was also the 31st Vice President of the AFGE Local 1923 Union for 10 years before retiring.

He was an avid traveler, packing the family into various cars, vans and planes over the years and driving or flying thousands of miles, making lots of happy memories that stay with us even now. At every event he could be found recording memories, either via his 10lb Panasonic video camera decades ago or his newer smaller digital cameras as technology evolved over the years. One of his great passions was reading, which was evidenced by the shelves of books he had throughout the house and the numerous audio books he listened to after his eyesight started failing.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Maria; his children, Andreas, Stella (Paul), and Christos (Natasha), as well as his grandchildren, Korbin Aristedes and Anastasia Louise. He is also survived by his sister, Theano and his niece and nephew, Ambrosios and Kyriaki and their children, as well as many other nieces and nephews in Annapolis. He was preceded in death by his brother, Anastasios Pelekanos of King of Prussia, PA.

He was a standing member of Ss. Constantine & Helen of Annapolis, MD since their marriage in 1983. A proud Cypriot he also participated in multiple Pancyprian events over the years.

Family and friends are invited to Aristedes’s life celebration on Thursday, August 10 from 5 to 7 PM at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD.  Funeral service will be held on Friday, August 11 at 11 AM at Ss. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 2747 Riva Road, Annapolis, MD with burial to follow at St. Demetrios Cemetery.

We ask that in lieu of flowers everyone make donations to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation, PO Box 515 Northampton, MA 01061-0515, or <a href= "https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E331225&id=4" >Online Here</a>    or plant a tree in memory of Aristedes Pelekanos.



Jimmy Lacson Legaspi, 72, a long time resident of Fort Washington passed away on August 6, 2023, of natural causes in his home in Fort Washington, MD. Jimmy was born on October 2, 1950 in Kawit, Cavite, Philippines to parents Anastasio Legaspi and Dominga Legaspi. He grew up with his two siblings in the Philippines where he spent most his time on the beach.

Jimmy was both a proud graduate of Don Basco Technical Institute and Silliman University where he graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering.  He migrated to the US in 1979. Jimmy has worked for the federal government for 33 years until he retired in 2020.

He is survived by his wife Lorna Legaspi, two daughters, Louise Legaspi (Scoty Cowdrey) and Chelsea Legaspi, and sister Nellie Olaes.

Relatives and friends are invited to Jimmy's Life Celebration on Wednesday, August 16 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Thursday, August 17 at 10 a.m. at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Interment Trinity Memorial Gardens, Waldorf, MD.

As a family we ask that you share your good memories of Jimmy to keep his memory alive.


Mary Fay Ayers (nee Gentile), age 85, an eight-year resident of Venice, FL and previously of Edgewater, MD, died August 4, 2023 in Annapolis after an 11 month battle with myelodysplastic syndrome, a form of leukemia.  Born in Washington, DC on May 11, 1938 to the late Charles A. and Martha King Gentile, she was a 1956 graduate of Northwestern High School who later earned her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Maryland.  She worked for many years as a real estate investor, where she was the co-founder of the Prince Georges Property Owners Association.  
Along with her twin sister, Martha Kay Dunn, they were very popular with a wide range of friends growing up in College Park, MD in the 1940’s and 50’s.  Together they perfected the art and science of renting to students at the University of Maryland.  At a time when few opportunities were available for a single mother, she borrowed a few dollars from her mother and bought her first rental house in the 1960’s.  Her career spanned six decades. She happily shared business advice, spiced with humor and enthusiasm.  She helped many a colleague sharpen their skills as they built their own rental portfolios.
Mary loved gardening.  Her other great passion was dancing with Don Kirsch, her life and dance partner of 40+ years.  They were seen dancing everywhere….from the Mid-Atlantic to Florida’s Gulf Coast and at places like Blobs Park, the boardwalk at Bethany Beach and Venice, FL.
In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by a son, James Charles “Tiny” Cunningham; her siblings, Martha Kay Dunn, and Charles Gentile, Jr.; and her life partner, Donald Kirsch.  She is survived by her son, Vernon B. Cunningham, Jr. of Annapolis and Cambridge, MD, and her grandchildren, Quinn E. Cunningham of Annapolis, MD and Teague Reese Cunard of San Diego, CA. She loved and cherished all her cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Funeral arrangements will be posted as they become available. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Sewell Pharr Edwards, Jr., “Ed”, of Annapolis, MD, passed away on August 4, 2023 at the age of 80.  He was born on July 5, 1943 in Atlanta, GA to the late Dorothy and Sewell P. Edwards, Sr.  Ed served in the U.S. Army during the early 1960s and then pursued a career as an engineer for the National Security Agency.  He enjoyed reading, working in his yard and, most of all, spending time with his family.  In addition to his parents, Ed was preceded in death by his son, Matthew and brother, Thomas.  He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Lynn A. Edwards; his daughter, Claudia (Donald) Sitarski of Fox River Grove, IL; and four grandsons, Thomas Edwards, Sam Sitarski, Jack Sitarski and Joseph Edwards.  Services will be private.  Online condolences may be offered using the Memories tab on the left side of this page.

Francine Louise Cairns, 83, a resident of Annapolis, MD for over 40 years, and previously of Boston, MA died on Thursday, August 3, 2023, in Port St. Lucie, FL.

Known to family and friends as “Fran”, she was born on June 26, 1940, in Boston, MA. Fran was a devout Catholic and member of St Mary’s Church in Annapolis. She was an eucharistic minister for many years and also assisted with confirmation and RCIA program. Fran enjoyed boating and being outdoors, spending time with her family, and entertaining friends.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, William James Cairns; three daughters, Christine (Walter) McNulty of Vero Beach Florida; Cheryl (David) Dillard of Hagerstown, Maryland; Caryn (Nolan) Moxey of Sheridan, Wyoming, eight grandchildren, Caroline, Kathryn, Andrew, Michael, William, Katelyn, Dylan, and Logan, and two great-grandchildren, Theo and Ryker. 

Fran was preceded in death by three siblings, Robert, Mary, and George.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, November 10th at 10:30 AM at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N. Bestgate Rd., Annapolis, MD. A luncheon will immediately follow the Mass. Memorial contributions may be made, in Francine's name, to the Alzheimer’s Association, 502 Washington Ave., Ste 300, Towson, MD 21204.

Elizabeth (Betty Anne) Harris Guthrie, born January 1, 1925 in Bessemer, Alabama, died peacefully at home in Annapolis, surrounded by all her daughters and loving caregivers on August 2, 2023. She was 98 years old. The eldest of five siblings, she grew up in Old Hickory, Tennessee, attended Stephens College in Missouri, and worked for the U.S. Army Map Service during World War II. She moved to San Francisco where she met the love of her life, Hugh D. Guthrie. Betty Anne was devoted to her children and family, her church and community wherever she lived. The family lived in Mill Valley, CA; Alton, IL; Southport, CT; Houston, TX; Alexandria, VA; Menlo Park and Newport Beach, CA; Tulsa, OK and Morgantown, WV. She lived near her daughter Elizabeth in Annapolis, MD for the last nine years of her life.

Her faith in God and service to the Episcopal Church were the heartbeat of her life. She served as a church leader in many capacities, while always being an Altar Guild member and active in the Order of the Daughters of the King. She volunteered with many organizations, including Head Start and Meals on Wheels until her late 80’s. She was always ready to help those in need.

She treasured family, both immediate and extended. She was Mother to five daughters: Katherine Guthrie (John Ward) of Eagan, MN, Gretchen Small (Dennis) of Leesburg, VA, Melissa Olson (JohnO) of Glenside, PA, Elizabeth Kinney (Douglas) of Annapolis, MD and Emily Guthrie (Michael Lindner) of Falls Church, VA; Grandmommy Betty to Erin, AJ, Caitlin, Darcy, Greg, John Hugh, Megan, Noah and Jamie; YaYa to her great grandchildren Hadley, Hannah, Ariane, River, Arthur, Bodhi and Ernie; and Aunt Betty to all of her beloved nieces and nephews.  Family and friends appreciated her warm and witty conversations, her generosity of spirit, her extraordinary vocabulary, the laughter in her presence and her fierce sense of what is right and just. She loved a challenging crossword puzzle, a good martini and had reverence for all creatures great and small, especially cats.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, Hugh, her parents Katherine and Kenneth Harris, and her siblings Ken, Bill, Jane and Sarah. 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on September 30, 2023, at 11 am, at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, Church Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401. In lieu of flowers, please send memorial gifts to Trinity Episcopal Church, 247 Willey St, Morgantown, WV 26505.

Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Karen Marie Mays, 58 of Shady Side, Maryland, passed away peacefully at her home on August 1, 2023. Karen graduated from Bowie High School in 1985 and received her Associate's degree in paralegal studies in 2007.  She really loved investigative paralegal work. Karen was a member of the local Moose Lodge in Shady Side and enjoyed playing pool, the ocean, nature and German shepherds.  She also loved shooting her guns. She is survived by her husband, Walter Kaczorek; her parents, Linda and Bob Mays; her siblings, Micheal Mays and Robin Stokes; her step daughters, Chrissy and Wendee Kaczorek as well as 5 grandchildren. She is incredibly missed already beyond words. She was a kick ass person. Love you K.K
Friends are invited to celebrate Karen's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Monday from 2 to 4 pm. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Ronald Lee Callahan, 67, passed away on Tuesday, August 1, 2023 at his home in Severna Park, MD. Born on May 16, 1956 in Washington, DC, Ron worked in the auto business his entire adult life. He enjoyed music, collecting records, was a car enthusiast and avid reader, especially of history. He is survived by his loving wife, Brenda; his children, Michael and Charlotte, two grandchildren, one great-grandchild and numerous cousins and friends.
Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Rolf F. Zenker, 92, a resident of Annapolis, MD and previously of Hilton Head Island, SC for twenty-five years, died on August 1, 2023, due to complications associated with an accidental fall.

Born on March 2, 1931, in Oppach, Germany to the late Fritz and Hedwig Zenker, Rolf graduated as a mechanical engineer from the Engineering Academy for Applied Science in Hamburg, Germany. During his career, he worked for Krauss-Maffei Locomotives in Germany, the General Electric Locomotives Division in Singapore, and the General Electric Aircraft Engine Group in Cincinnati, OH. In his spare time, Rolf enjoyed international travel, sailing, and cooking Asian foods.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Ingrid Zenker. Rolf is survived by his sons, Michael Zenker of Annapolis, MD, and Christoph Zenker of Birmingham, AL; his grandchildren, Justin, Holden, and Erin and a great-grandchild. Funeral services will be private at a later date. 

Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Carlene King Grant Williams passed away August 1st, 2023 in Edgewater, MD. Carlene was born on August 15, 1943 in Washington, DC to the late Mabel Donaldson King and William E. King, Sr.   Carlene retired from the FAA after serving as an Airway Transportation System Specialist. After moving to Salisbury, she worked as a Media Specialist at the Mardela Middle/High School. Carlene was well known for her baking skills and many looked forward to receiving one of her signature pies (a.k.a., “The Pie Lady” at school). She liked to dance and you could be sure to see her on the dance floor at gatherings. Carlene loved to travel and visited many destinations. She was a very successful poker player in the Salisbury poker league. Eventually, she moved to Annapolis, where she brought that same competitive spirit to Brightview South River where she enjoyed her bingo success.

While Carlene faced many challenges in her life, she would always brighten a room whether in the company of family or strangers. She was a very compassionate and empathetic person and would make anyone in her presence feel valued and welcome. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all.

Carlene was preceded in death by her husband Herbert (Herb) Williams, and her brother William E. King, Jr. She is survived by her daughter Cassandra Olson (John), step-daughter Jennifer Schooley (Terry), step-son Todd Williams; three grandchildren, Hannah, Sarah and Will, and two great-grandchildren, Faerydae and Lily: her brother Mike King (Becki), sister-in-law Judy King; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Friends are invited to celebrate Carlene’s life with her family from 11 AM to 1 PM, memories will be shared starting at 12:15 PM, on Saturday, August 19th at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD.

James A. Ridgley, Sr., 79, passed away at his home in Lothian, MD on July 31, 2023. James was a veteran of the Army National Guard and the owner and operator of R&R Auto Electric Co., Inc. in Upper Marlboro for 40 years before retiring in 2009 to pursue his passions of spending time with family, farming his land, raising animals, and expertly repairing and operating equipment of all types. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Joan; three children, Rose (Kevin) Beall, Lauri (John) Adey, and James (Annette) Ridgley, Jr.; 14 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. James was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and great-granddaughter, Alaina Rose. He was loved immensely by his family and his loss will be felt for generations to come. Friends are invited to celebrate James's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Tuesday, August 8 from 11 am until 12 pm. Graveside service and interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Lothian, MD. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Obituaries

Thomas Antonielli, Sr.

Michael Titsworth

Cathryn McPartland

Severino "Benny" Benzon

Michael Shekletski

Catherine Fortwengler

Edward Olive

John Young, Jr.

Ralph Campbell, Jr.

Wanda Earnshaw

Jonathon Kennedy

Norma Harris

Linda Lee

Aristedes Pelekanos

Jimmy Legaspi

Mary Ayers

Sewell Edwards

Francine Cairns

Elizabeth Guthrie

Karen Mays

Ronald Callahan

Rolf Zenker

Carlene Grant Williams

James Ridgley, Sr.