Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Friends and family are invited to attend the funeral service for Huynh Duy Trinh on Sunday, September 15 at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD from 1 to 3 pm. The schedule of events is as follows:

-Prayers offered by the family monk from 1 to 1:45 pm

-Words of Remembrance offered by family and friends from 2 to 2:30 pm

-Time for gathering with the family from 2:30 to 3 pm

Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family using the Memories tab on this page.

Richard Lynn Ernstes, affectionately known as "Dick," passed away on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, in Glen Burnie, MD. A resident of Odenton, MD for the past 13 years and formerly of Edgewater, MD, Dick was born on September 10, 1946, in Clinton, MO, to the late Freida Hubble and Herman Ernstes. He proudly attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute.

Dick enjoyed a successful career as a real estate agent with Champion Realty and Riley and Associates, following a noteworthy 5-year tenure at Honeywell and 12 years with Chesapeake Yacht Sales. His passions included cheering for the Washington Redskins and Baltimore Orioles, boating, and spending time on the water. Above all, Dick treasured the moments spent with his family.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Stella Ernstes; his daughter Kristen and son in-law Rich Shorter of Crofton, MD; and his two granddaughters, Aubrey and Kennedy Shorter.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Dick's life on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, from 2 to 4 pm and again from 6 to 8 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD 21037 where a funeral service will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 11 am. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the <a href="https://donate.cancer.org/?campaign=honormemorialbutton&lang=en">American Cancer Society</a>, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.

Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by using the Memories link on this page.

Marylynne Hargaden Berard, age 83, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Florida.
  
Born on August 21, 1941 in Meyersdale, Pennsylvania, Mary is survived by her children, Mary Bernadette Berard Schultz and Jacquelyn Berard; her grandchildren, David and John Schultz, William Berard, IV, Mary Miller, James and John Berard and Christin and Bethany Probst; her great-grandchildren, J.C and Luke Miller, James Berard, Jr., Michael, Benjamin and Romy Berard and her sisters, Elizabeth O’Donnell and Anne Price. She was preceded in death by her husband, William Barnaby Berard, Jr.; her son, William Barnaby Berard, III and her brother, Edward Hargaden.
 
Mary was known for her unwavering kindness and dedication to bringing joy and hope to all she interfaced with. She graduated from Notre Dame Preparatory School in 1959, where she built upon the foundation of her Christian faith. This early education profoundly shaped her life and guided her actions throughout her years.  
Mary had a distinguished career in the military sector, working for the Department of Defense at the Naval Air Station in Patuxent River, Maryland, and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. While working at the Naval Air Station, she also served as a Commissioner of Economic Development for Calvert County. Among her many notable achievements, Mary played a key role in hosting special events with high-profile figures and worked extensively with a multitude of active-duty soldiers and their families to enhance their quality of life and provide relocation assistance.

Mary was not only dedicated to her family and career but also to giving back to her community. After retiring, she and her beloved therapy dog, Twinkle, spent countless hours visiting patients at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, bringing comfort and happiness to those in need. Twinkle followed Mary as a trusted companion during her move to Florida, where she continued her care at Lourdes Noreen McKeen retirement community. In addition, she was an active and devoted member of her local church, St. Ann Catholic Church, in West Palm Beach, where she contributed her time and spirit to the community. 

Her compassion for others was a true testament to her caring nature.
 
Mary will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. 
 
A private interment will be held at Columbia Gardens Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, to honor her miraculous life.
  
“Jesus, I Trust in You


It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Wesley Charles Whitelock, on September 10th, 2024, at the age of 84. 

Born on August 6th, 1940, in Washington, DC. Wes was a remarkable man who led a fulfilling life. He resided in Edgewater, MD. He was the beloved son of the late Mary Wright Cummings and stepson of Herbert Cummings. Wes is preceded in death by his sister, Bette Tryon (Walt), and brother, Lemuel Whitelock (Valerie).

Wes graduated from Annapolis High School in 1958 and immediately enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was assigned to the 63rd Organization Maintenance Squadron (MATS) stationed in Frankfurt, Germany, where he met his wife, Marita. Wes received an Honorable discharge in 1964 and continued to live in Mörfelden while working at the United States Air Force base in Frankfurt, Germany. In 1969, Wes and his family moved back to Edgewater, Maryland, where he worked with his stepfather, Herbert, at Cummings and Putnam. He took over the family business in 1975, obtained his real estate license, and retired in 2008.  Wes was a long-time member of the Annapolis Elks Lodge 622 and Elk of the Year from 1997 to 1998. He was a member of the Beverly Beach Community Association, Mayo Elementary PTA, and Beverly Beach Dock Master for many years.  He will be remembered for his service, loyalty, honesty, hard work ethic, and integrity. 

Wes shared his life and love with his devoted spouse, Marita Whitelock, of 61 years. Wes was a cherished father to Wesley Earl Whitelock (Kelly), Nicole Linderman (Greg), and stepson Michael Ihler. He also leaves behind 3 grandchildren, Michael, Brooke, Jacob, and a great-granddaughter, Lana, who will deeply miss him.

In reflecting upon his life, we remember how Wes enjoyed his time on the Rhode River. He loved to spend time with his family on the water, crabbing, tubing, and water skiing. Wes took great pleasure in growing his tomato garden and maintaining his yard. He enjoyed watching the ever-changing scenery of Cadle Creek with his wife from the deck of the home that they had built. He was known for his craftsmanship, and his presence brought joy to those around him. His legacy will forever be etched in our hearts.

Family and friends are invited to honor and celebrate the life of Wesley Charles Whitelock on September 26th, 2024, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD. The interment will take place at 2:30 p.m. Maryland Veterans Cemetery Crownsville, 1122 Sunrise Beach Road, Crownsville, MD 21032. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Annapolis Elks Lodge, or a Veteran Charity of your choice as a tribute to his memory.

We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have shown their love, support, and condolences during this time of bereavement. Your thoughts and kind words have provided us with solace and strength.

Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.


SHANNON "COFI" MOORE WAS BORN ON DECEMBER 27, 1977, IN WASHINGTON, D.C., TO THE LATE HERMAN AND LYNN MOORE. HE DEPARTED THIS LIFE ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2024 AT HIS HOME WITH LOVED ONES BY HIS SIDE.

HE GRADUATED FROM OXON HILL HIGH SCHOOL IN 1995 AND PURSUED A TRADE IN FIBER TECHNOLOGY. COFI APPLIED HIS SKILLS AS A FIBER TECHNICIAN AT OMNYON, WHERE HE BUILT A RESPECTED CAREER. 

ON AUGUST 27, 2010, COFI MARRIED HIS LOVING WIFE, NASTASHA, IN COLUMBIA, MD. THEY SHARED 20 YEARS TOGETHER.

COFI HAD A DEEP PASSION FOR MUSIC, PARTICULARLY OLD-SCHOOL HIP HOP, WHICH INSPIRED HIM TO CREATE HIS OWN MUSIC AS A HIP HOP ARTIST FOR OVER A DECADE. HE ALSO TOOK GREAT PRIDE IN BEING A SNEAKERHEAD AND COLLECTOR OF VINTAGE MEMORABILIA.

COFI IS PRECEDED IN DEATH BY HIS PARENTS AND HIS BROTHER, DEYANO MOORE. HE LEAVES BEHIND TO CHERISH HIS MEMORY HIS WIFE, NASTASHA; HIS YOUNGER BROTHERS, EADEN MOORE AND NYLE MOORE; HIS SISTER, DARRYN MOORE; AND A HOST OF NIECES AND NEPHEWS.

Relatives and friends are invited to Shannon's Life Celebration on September 27, 2024 from 11 a.m. until the the start of the service at 12 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745.

David Shade

On September 9, 2024 of Lothian Maryland. He was 94 years old. 

David was born in Dayton, Ohio in 1930. At age eleven he and his family moved to Maryland. He was a graduate of McKinley Tech High School, class of 1949. He served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. His life's work was that of a printer and he retired in 1994 after forty five years. In his younger years he was an avid tennis player, a sport he greatly enjoyed. One of his favorite endeavors was hiking “Old Rag Mountain” in Virginia and he did it often. Other pastimes included stein collecting, reading and traveling. He was a true fan of the Washington Redskins and the Washington Nationals.

He was a wonderful, kind and gentle man, generous and warm-hearted, a ready smile and an easy laugh. His ability to develop and maintain friendships was legendary.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Dale; sons William (Deborah) and Robert (Mimi); step-son Wayne (Patty) Dustin; grandchildren Anthony Shade, Savanah Quintanilla (Douglas) and Miranda Shade; Matthew (Lauren) and Tyler (Emily) Dustin; great-grandchildren Ethan and Aria Quintanilla, Lily, Noah and Makenzie Dustin.

David was a member of St James Episcopal Parish, Lothian MD.

Internment, private.

Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

William I. Rawlings Sr., lifelong resident of Mayo, MD, died at home on September 8, 2024. He was born June 18, 1932, in Annapolis, MD to the late Tilghman Sr. and Ruth Rawlings. He was an avid waterman who loved to fish and crab.
 
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Louise; his daughter, Rita Katherine Anderson and his brother, Tilghman “Bootsie” Jr. He is survived by his sons, William “Billy” Rawlings ( Glenda), Wayne Rawlings( Mary) and Kevin Sr. (Sharon); his daughters, Linda Senft and her late husband, Dannie Senft and Hope Hallock (Rusty); his brother, Robert “Bep” Rawlings and his 13 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

Friends are invited to celebrate William’s life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Monday, September 16, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, September 17, at 11 am at Lakemont Memorial Gardens, 900 West Central Avenue, Davidsonville, MD 21035. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the <a Href="https://www.alz.org/?form=FUNSETYDEFK"> Alzheimer’s Association</a> (alz.org).

Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.










Ronald D. Brown, a 40-year resident of Davidsonville, Maryland, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on September 7, 2024. He had a career spanning 45 years as a computer application specialist and operations manager in the banking industry, retiring in 2001. Locally, he was employed by the National Bank of Washington and Riggs National Bank. During his career, he worked internationally in the banking industry, spending several years in Malaysia and Hungary.

Ron was born in York, Pennsylvania, on October 11, 1933, to Herald F. Brown and Charlotte Brown (nee Knisley). He attended a one-room schoolhouse in Red Lion, Pennsylvania, for eight years. He graduated from Red Lion High School in 1951. He was a member of the Air Force from 1952 to 1956. During this time, he developed expertise in electronics, which helped him transition to employment in the early days of the computer industry. He attended Drexel University with a concentration in electrical engineering.

Ron developed a passion for boating and enjoyed cruising the Chesapeake Bay with trips along the Intracoastal Waterway and The Northern Loop. He was a man of many talents and an avid problem solver capable of managing projects involving his home, boat, or car. In his retirement, he assisted family and friends in renovating their homes.

Ron is survived by his wife, Helen Brown (nee Bukey); his children, Douglas Brown and Cindy Marlo Baird; stepdaughter Anne Ferguson; granddaughter Christine Hill; and sisters Connie Shuff and Faye Strickler. He was predeceased by his stepdaughter Katherine Ferguson and brother Gerald Brown.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Ron’s life on Friday, October 11, Ron’s 91st birthday, at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD,  from 10:30 a.m., until his Memorial Service begins at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens, Davidsonville, MD. The Reverend Dr. Catherine Craley will conduct the Memorial Service. 

Donations in Ron’s memory can be made to Johns Hopkins Research - Pancreatic Cancer, Lustgarten Foundation: Pancreatic Cancer Research (online <a href="https://lustgarten.org/donatenow/">here</a>) or Luminis Health Gilchrist Hospice (online <a href="https://gilchristcares.org/donate/">here</a>).

Mr. Godson Chukwuemeka Onyeukwu; beloved son, brother, uncle, father, grandfather, and friend, was born on December 25th, 1945 in Imo State-Owerri, Nigeria to the Late Chief Philip Onyeukwu and the Late Melinda Nnaji Onyeukwu, the 2nd son out of 8 children. 

As an avid lover of education, he studied accounting and worked as a banker in during his youth in Nigeria. In 1963, then traveled to London to continue his studies and eventually became a civil servant working for the Civil Aviation Authority within their Finance/Accounting Department. In 1984, he relocated to the United States to be with his wife and infant daughter. From there, he went on to father 2 sons and managed to work in various professions from Teaching to becoming a Security Agent in law enforcement before his ill health.

He will sorely missed and always remembered by his daughter Sallie Onyeukwu-Reagan; his sons Godson Onyeukwu Jr. and Ambruce Onyeukwu; his granddaughter, Aubrey Onyeukwu; his sister Eunice, and his many nieces and nephews. 


Relatives and friends are invited to Godson's Life Celebration on Saturday, November 9, 2024 from 1:00 P.M. until the start of the service at 2:00 P.M. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, September 27th at 11 AM at Southminister Presbyterian Church: 7801 Livingston Rd Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Military honors will take place before the service at around 10:45 AM.

Roslyn Carole Beitler, "Roz", was born June 4, 1939, and passed away peacefully September 5, 2024, with friends and family at her bedside.  Her life was devoted to bringing together children and books.  Whether as children's book editor, or as children's librarian at the Annapolis Area Library and later at Kate Waller Barret Elementary School in Arlington, VA, or as Program Manager for Young Associates and Family Activities of the Smithsonian Resident Associate Program, Roz planned classes and programs that were thoughtful, creative, education, fun and award-winning.

At the Smithsonian, she planned and produced 14 to 26 classes and 30 to 40 special events per year, including the popular Evening Picnics at the Zoo, Kite Festivals and sleepovers at Smithsonian museums.

Professionally, Roz was active in many organizations.  In the American Library Association, for instance, she was appointed to the prestigious Newbery Award Committee, and for the International Board on Books for Young People, she was a U.S. delegate to seven World Congresses around the globe.

A self-described "culture vulture," Roz volunteered for Washington National Opera, Kreeger Museum, Kennedy Center, and Arena Stage.  She loved to travel and was an avid reader.  She arranged many weekend and day trips, museum visits, and performing arts experiences for herself and her grateful friends.  Roz lived a full and eventful life.

Roz was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Cecilia Beitler; sister, Elaine Beitler Lessenco; her brother-in-law, Gilbert Barry Lessenco; her niece, Susan Donna Lessenco; and her nephew, Robert Howard Lessenco.  She is survived by her niece, Amy Lessenco Mowles and her cousin, Beverly Hirsch.

Funeral services will be private.  In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.  

Online condolences may be offered using the Memories link on the left side of this page.


 NADA SYRNYK
 March 25, 1929—September 5, 2024


Nada Syrnyk passed away on September 5, 2024 at the age of 95. Nada was a wonderful mother to her only daughter, Irene Magdalena Syrnyk, and a devoted “Baba" to her granddaughters, Alexandra Syrnyk Sippel (Merkert), her princess, and Josefine Tighe Merkert, her angel. Being with family was her true vocation and focus. She also loved her son-in-law, J. Tighe Merkert and grandson-in-law, Jake Sippel, like the sons she never had.

Born in Yugoslavia, Nada would often say she "had a very hard life." By the age of 7, Nada and her sister, Maria (Kuehn), had lost both parents and were being raised by their grandparents. In 1943 as WW II raged on, Nada was forced to leave her native Yugoslavia at the age of 14 to escape the Russian invasion. She fled on foot with others from her town to a U.S. displacement camp in Bayreuth, Germany, nearly 900 miles away. There she met and later married Joseph Syrnyk, who was also forced to flee from his homeland in Ukraine.

In 1951, they emigrated to the USA through Ellis Island and settled in Chicago through a sponsorship program with U.S. citizens. Coming with no money, they both worked many jobs to make a better life for themselves. It took years for Nada to finally have a child after many miscarriages, so she cherished the birth of her only daughter, Irene, when she finally arrived 9 years later. Nada and Joe were very involved in their Ukrainian Catholic community, passing along their work ethic and the importance of education. Joe went on to build a successful plumbing company in Chicago. Nada and Joe had many years of happiness with their small family and many friends in Chicago. After 30 years, friends convinced them to move to Destin, Florida for Joe’s failing health.

Sadly, Joe passed away in 1991, at the young age of 64.  Soon after, Nada elected to sell the Florida house and all of her belongings to move to Severna Park, Maryland to be involved in the lives of Irene and her family. She achieved her true happiness by being with her daughter, caring for her grandchildren and staying engaged in their lives. In 2017, Nada suffered a debilitating spine issue and after many operations and therapy, moved in with Tighe and Irene, where she was loved and lived until her death. In addition to her immediate family, she leaves behind her great nephews, Justin (Amy) and Joseph (Kathryn) Kuehn of Wisconsin. Her devotion to family was truly the legacy of her challenging life journey. Her sweet demeanor and kind way will be missed by many.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Nada's life on Friday, November 22, 2024 at 10:30 am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N. Bestgate Road, Annapolis, MD 21401.

Inurnment will take place on October 9th at 1:00 PM at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery: 11301 Robert S. Crain Hwy, Cheltenham, MD 20623. 

John Bernard Lauer, Jr., 77, passed away on September 4, 2024, in Annapolis, Maryland of natural causes surrounded by his family and friends. He was born on January 25, 1947, in Washington, DC to the late John Bernard Lauer Sr. and Ruth Dixon Lauer. John joined the National Guard after high school, and he was a Motor Transportation Operator. He was the owner of Lauer Construction which built custom homes for 55 years. His motto was that, “life is too short to live in a cookie cutter house”. He knew that a house should be more than 4 walls and a roof. It is a place where a solid foundation is formed, memories are made, and where love resides.  In addition, he had owned Gibson’s Lodgings, a Historical Inn, in downtown Annapolis for 30 years. Gibson’s allowed him to be a part of hosting family, friends and people from all around the world. He took great pride in every nook and cranny of the historical Inn to preserve each detail. He realized it was part of a larger story that was needed, so it would be cherished and remembered for generations to come.

John discovered his love for boating at the early age of 15 when he bought his first boat.  He enjoyed power boating, and he was a member of the West River Yacht Club for 50 years.  He shared his passion of being on the water with many friends and family with his favorite destination being the Crab Claw in St. Michael’s, MD. The trays of food would arrive, then the Polar Bear drinks would show up, and the laughs followed.

John was a generous host to family and friends, which allowed him to share his love of food. In his mind, to feed you was to love you. John could cook up a meal for many with very short notice due to a very well organized and always stocked pantry. His friends always joked that they always left John’s events with a full stomach and a fuller heart.  

John had a commitment to all creatures great and small. For years he owned a variety of animals and he appreciated their beauty. In his yard, he found great joy in taking care of the birds, fox, raccoons, deer and other critters that stopped by for a John Lauer meal.

John is survived by his loving wife, Corey Lauer; his daughter, Meredith Lauer (Russ); his stepsons, Jake and Rudy Poeschek; his sisters, Ruth Anne Dearybury, Kathy Curtin (Dan), and Lisa Wilson (Bob); his brother, Mike Lauer, along with many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Shelly; his sisters, Pat Stouffer (Bob) and Margaret Bashioum; his brother, Joe Lauer (Diane) and his nephew, Steven Wilson.

John’s legacy is as solid as the homes that he built. He loved meeting people and if he didn’t know them before they quickly became friends. We all hope that there are plenty of blueprints and building permits in-hand as he continues his journey alongside others that have passed. May his memory live on through each meal he shared and every toast raised in his honor. John was a man that lived big, loved big and he left a big legacy behind that is, like him, larger than life.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate John’s life on Friday, September 13 from 2 to 4 and again from 6 to 8 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD, where his funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 14 at 11 am. 

Condolences and tributes may be made by using the memories link on this page.  

Relatives and friends are invited to gather for Maxine's memorial service on October 11, 2024 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.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Richard's life on Friday, September 20th from 10-11 AM until the start of the funeral service at 11 AM at the KALAS Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745. 

Barbara A. Carr, 85, a resident of Edgewater, MD for the past five years and formerly of Richmond, VA, for 35 years, passed away peacefully from natural causes on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.

Born on April 22, 1939, in Federalsburg, MD, to the late Lloyd and Myrtle Marine, Barbara grew up in Federalsburg until she moved to Washington, DC for school where she met her late husband.   She dedicated 42 years of service to the federal government, including 15 years at the National Arboretum and later at the Defense General Supply Center until her retirement.

Barbara's love of music led her to sing in the choirs at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Landover Hills, MD, the Church of the Epiphany in Richmond, VA, and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Edgewater.  She was also passionate about sewing, embroidery, gardening, bird watching, and cats and dogs. A lifelong learner, she enjoyed Hallmark movies, Scrabble, and board games.

In addition to her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, John B. Carr, and her brother, Jack L. Marine.

She is lovingly remembered by her four children: Catharine (William, Sr.) Portman of Victoria, VA, Sharon (Jeff) Carr of Edgewater, MD, Kevin (Irene) Carr of Powhatan, VA, and Carol Ann (Dennis) Rapine of Edgewater, MD; 10 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. 

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Barbara's life on Wednesday, September 11, with visitation from 10:30 to 11:00 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 515 Loch Haven Road, Edgewater. Interment will take place on Thursday, September 12, at 12:00 PM at Dale Memorial Park, 10201 Newbys Bridge Rd., Chesterfield, VA.



William E. Tucker, II (Billy) 84, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2024, after a courageous 5 year battle with cancer.

Billy was born on August 24, 1940, to the late Mary E. Tucker and Everett E. Tucker. He was a lifelong resident of Lothian, Maryland, and was a 1958 graduate of Southern High School.

After high school, he worked for the Library of Congress for a short period, but in 1959, he came home to work with his Dad on the family farm. 

Billy served in the National Guard and was honorably discharged on December 21, 1966.
He worked briefly as a Real Estate Agent for Howlin Realty but in 1988, he became the proprietor of Countryside Store and Video until 2016.

His favorite pastime was eating steamed crabs with family and friends as well as spending time with his 4 grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife, Janet of almost 60 years, his son, Garrett Lyons Tucker (Penny), his daughter, Lauren Tucker Myers (Charles) and his four grandchildren, Hannah and Griffin Tucker, Margaret (Maggie), and Wyatt Myers, also survived by his brother, Robert L. Tucker (Carol), and one sister, Sue Manifold (Donald). He was predeceased by his parents, Mary E. Tucker (Griffth) and E. Earl Tucker, and his one sister, Earleen Bowen (Lee).

Family and friends are invited to the celebration of life on September 5, 2024, from 1 to 3 pm and from 5 to 8 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, Maryland 21037. A funeral service will be at Mt. Zion Methodist Church, 122 Bayard Road, Lothian, Maryland 20711 on Friday, September 6, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Church, 812 Marlboro Road, Lothian, Maryland 20711. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ruritan National Foundation Scholarship Fund, c/o Bernard Lerch, 5407 Solomon's Island Road, Lothian, Maryland 20711


Thomas “Tom” McCarthy, Sr., 88, died peacefully in Christ on Friday, August 30, 2024 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Tom was a devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, to his loving wife of 64 years, Catherine, his six children, his children in-law, 23 grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren.

Tom was born on April 29, 1936 in Mount Vernon, NY, the second of three children of the late Patrick Joseph and Catherine Jane McCarthy. From the age of five, Tom, his brother, Vincent and his sister, Mary were raised by their mother, who instilled in Tom a strong sense of independence, resilience and eternal optimism.  From the earliest age, he contributed to the survival of his family – working as many as three jobs simultaneously through elementary, middle and high school.  This strong work ethic lasted throughout his entire life. 

Tom proved to be an outstanding student, and was president and valedictorian of his graduating class of 1955 from Edison Technical High School. Following high school, he was accepted into the Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey, and during his freshman year received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy.  He arrived in Annapolis in 1956 and graduated from the Naval Academy in 1960, as the first person in his family to earn a college degree.  

Tom was a great lover of music, and was able to play music entirely by ear, on instruments which he taught himself to play.  In high school he regularly played the harmonica on commercial radio shows.  At the Naval Academy, he frequently played the grand piano located in Memorial Hall to the delight of lucky classmates and others nearby.  It was while playing this piano that Tom caught the ear and eventually the heart of his future wife, Catherine, who was touring the Academy with her grandfather.

Tom and Catherine were married at St. Mary’s Church in Annapolis on June 18, 1960, immediately following Tom’s graduation from the Naval Academy, and commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force.  Early in his career, Tom was stationed in Texas and Florida, followed by Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland.  Upon completion of his active duty obligation in 1963, Tom accepted a job at Honeywell, designing and installing main frame computer systems, at the dawning of the Information Age. From Maryland, Tom moved his family to Australia where he led the team installing the first ever main frame computer system used by the Australian Department of Defense. 1n 1968, Tom moved his family to Boston, and moved the family again in 1969 to the United Kingdom, where Tom continued to be deeply involved in the development and installation of main frame computer systems. In 1972, Tom moved the family back to Sherwood Forest near Annapolis where he became a fixture within the Annapolis community and a parishioner at St. Mary’s Church.
  
Tom continued his endeavors in the computer industry, working at several companies over the ensuing 20-plus years, including ARINC in Annapolis, where he worked for 10 years.  Among Tom’s many accomplishments was leading the team which developed and deployed one of the first ever satellite-supported ship-to-shore remote emergency cardiac response systems and the sea-air link. His many contributions in these fields reverberate to this day.

In 1994, Tom pursued his passion for law, earning his JD from the University of Baltimore Law School in 1997, at the age of 61, and his Master of Laws (LLM) in tax in 2000.  During his legal career, Tom represented many individuals and businesses in state and federal courts in Maryland, and provided extensive pro bono and reduced fee services to indigent and underserved individuals, who otherwise would have been unable to afford representation.   

 Tom’s natural love of education, personal resilience, and tenacity were contagious.  Many of his children and grandchildren have followed in his footsteps earning college degrees, Juris Doctorate Degrees, and Masters Degrees.  Many have opened their own successful businesses and law practices, all guided by Tom’s pursuit of justice for everyone.  Tom was a member of the Anne Arundel County Bar Association and Maryland State Bar Association, and was admitted to practice law in the State of Maryland, the Federal District of Maryland, the District of Columbia District and Federal Courts, the United States Tax Court, and the United States Supreme Court, with a number of his cases reported in the appellate courts of Maryland and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. 

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his sister, Mary “May”. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Catherine; his brother, Vincent; his children, Thomas, Jr., Patrick and his wife, Denise, Kevin and his wife, Connie, Kathleen and her husband, Rik, Brennan and his wife, Wendy and Colleen and her husband, George; his grandchildren, by whom he was lovingly known as “Poppy”, Thomas Ryan, Trystan, Shane, Dee Dee, Caitlyn, Eryn, Patrick, Jr., Aidan, Seamus, William, Troy, Travis, Tad, Jr., Sean, Skyelar, Liam, Emma, Christopher, Lauren, Christian, Connor, Ellianna, and Alex and his great children, Michael, Anthony, James, Daniel, Saoirse, Ceili, Yetta-Marie, Wyatt, Ronan, Declan, Kilian, Adaline, Kiylnn, Brayden, Chandler, Kolten, Skylar, Cohan, Crew, Thaddeus, III “Tripp”, Micky, III “Trey”, Rowan, Jasmine, Emiliano, and Nayeli. Tom was a mentor, inspiration, and role model to countless other young people with whom had a natural and deep connection and love, including his former son-in-law, Tad, Sr., and former daughter-in-law, Jessica. To them, whether in-law, niece, nephew, or friend of one of his own children, Tom will forever be remembered as “Dad,” “Mr. Mac,” “Big Tom,” or simply “Mr. McCarthy.”

Friends and Family are invited to celebrate Tom’s life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Friday September 6 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm with rosary being said at 7:30 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W. Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD on Saturday, September 7 at 11 am. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Annapolis.  


Blossom Christine Hansen Patterson passed away peacefully on August 30, 2024.  She was born in Shaker Heights, Ohio before relocating to Haverford, Pennsylvania.  She was married to John Patterson for 52 years.  Blossom is survived by her sons Robert and George as well as her grandchildren, Phillip, Brieanna, Jack, Nicholas, Nina, and Samantha.

She graduated from the Baldwin School in Bryn Mawr, before obtaining a degree in History from Smith College. She studied abroad in Paris and was fluent in French. Blossom met her husband while working at the Census Bureau. At the Census Bureau, she developed an interest in statistical research. Her love of statistics led her to obtain a master’s degree and Ph.D. from the University of Maryland while raising her sons.  Despite her busy schedule, she found time to tutor math to troubled youth at the Noyes Center in Rockville, Maryland.

She worked for the National Cancer Institute’s Division of Cancer Prevention as a researcher for nearly 30 years.  Her passion was studying food and nutrition to reduce cancer rates.  Blossom co-authored the book Investigating Biological Systems Using Modeling as well as several articles published in medical journals.  She consulted with Giant Food and Campbell’s Soup to improve the quality of the American diet.  As one of the only liberal arts majors in a division of statisticians, she was often the designated presenter of research at symposiums and even handled an interview on CNN.

Despite her life’s work Blossom was diagnosed with breast cancer after a tumor was discovered in her spine.  She was tough and defeated stage four breast cancer.  After her husband passed, Blossom relocated from Potomac, Maryland to Brightview in Edgewater. At Brightview, she quietly dominated trivia and developed a new set of close friends.  

The family will be holding a memorial service for Blossom at Brightview Senior Living at 8 Lee Airpark Dr., Edgewater Maryland on Wednesday, September 11th from 6 pm to 8 pm.  Light fare and wine will be available. Following the memorial service, the family will be hosting a reception at Robiolina Amore located at 9 Lee Airpark Drive, Suite B100, Edgewater.  The restaurant is located within walking distance of Brightview.  Extra parking is available in the Lee Airpark shopping center. 

She will be laid to rest next to her husband at Christ Episcopal Church in Rockville, Maryland.

Cindy Darlene Troutman, President and Owner of CGH Technologies, Inc., passed away peacefully at her home in Upper Marlboro, MD on August 27, 2024. Cindy was born on April 25, 1953, in Trenton, NJ, to the late Robert and Doris Troutman. As part of a military family, Cindy lived in several states, however, the family established roots in Chaneysville, PA.

Cindy attended Louisiana State University (LSU) where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in 1975. Immediately following she served as Operations Manager at Southeastern University Computer Center in Hammed, Louisiana until 1986, when she relocated to the Washington DC area. While in the DC Metro area, she served as a Systems Engineer, Project Manager, and Manager of Technical/ Business Development before establishing her own company. 

In 1989 Cindy founded CGH Technologies, Inc. a woman-owned small business, serving Federal and International government agencies, and commercial clients for over 35 years. Cindy was highly regarded within the aviation community, working with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), where she was dedicated to helping design, implement, and maintain systems in addition to improving processes and communication, that would ensure safe and secure air travel.  

CGH Technologies, Inc. was ranked by the Washington Business Journal as one of the 50 fastest-growing privately held, woman-owned information engineering and management support businesses, in the Washington, D.C.  region many times over. In addition, CGH would win numerous awards for its renowned accomplishments, to name a few -- the ComputerWorld ‘Safety and Security´ Honor AwardsProgram -- a solution that used information technology to promote and advance public welfare, contribute to the greater good of society and change the world for the better; the Excellence in Government Award for Excellence in Enterprise Efficiencies; the AFEI, top industry Excellence in Enterprise Information Award; the American Biographical Institute (ABI-USA) “Outstanding Female Executive Award for Aviation Technical Solutions and an office corridor (that was referred to as “the Hall of Fame”) that displayed over 130 industry and community awards for excellence in solutions development, service delivery, and management.

Cindy was a dedicated member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA), the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the Air Traffic Controllers Association (ATCA), the Civil Air Navigation Services Organization (CANSO), the DC Chamber of Commerce (DCCC), Elevation Church, the National Association for Female Executives (NAFE), the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), the National Women’s Business Center (NWBC), the U.S. Chamber of Commerce (USCC), the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce (USWCC), and Women in Technology (WIT).

Cindy and CGH supported various charitable causes over the last two decades, the company’s Community Outreach Program included, but was not limited to, the Ronald McDonald House of Charities, MS 5K Run, Dress for Success, Children’s National Medical Center, Friends of the National Zoo, Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind, House of Ruth, and Food for Friends. Many of the CGH staff volunteered at the charitable events. 
Cindy’s love and passion for animals and farming was like no other. She has loved, raised, and cared for over 100 alpacas, multiple horses, dogs, cats, chickens, and any wildlife that crossed her path.

All are invited to celebrate Cindy’s life on Saturday, September 7, 2024, for a gathering at 10 am followed by a memorial service at 11 am at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. Instead of flowers, it is kindly requested that contributions be made to the <a href="https://secure.aspca.org/donate/donate?ms=wb_top_homepage-donate&initialms=wb_top_homepage-donate&pcode=WEBMEMBER&lpcode=WEBGUARD&_gl=1*vyh8sj*_gcl_au*MjA4NzgyMDI5OC4xNzI1Mjk1Njgx">ASPCA.org </a> or to <a href="https://www.lastchanceanimalrescue.org/donate/">lastchanceanimalrescue.org</a> Online condolences may be shared by using the memories tab on this page.

Sara White Taylor, 33, passed away on August 26, 2024 after a short battle with cancer. Sara never stopped fighting even when the odds were stacked against her. She spent her last days surrounded by her closest loved ones.
 
Sara lived a life of service to others. She worked with children most of her life, and was the primary caregiver to both of her parents when they too were dying of cancer. Sara constantly put others before herself, even in her final days.

She enjoyed the simple things in life. She loved ordering take-out and binging the latest shows with her boyfriend. She enjoyed caring for her late mother’s plants, and starting a collection of her own. Sara's loved ones will remember her by her sharp sense of humor, no nonsense attitude, and her passionate love of Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream. Sara was a bright light in any room she entered and she made sure to share that light with anyone else in the room. Her personality was contagious to everyone she met.
 
Sara is survived by her older sister, Whitney Taylor; her younger brother, Robert Taylor, III and her loving boyfriend, Joshua Diffenderfer.

Sara wished to have a joyful celebration of life. Details for that will be announced at a later date. Flowers or plant donations are appreciated. Monetary donations to contribute to the celebration of life will be accepted as well.
 
Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Mary Elise Thornton Vallario “Leasy” passed away on August 24, 2024 with her husband and 6 children by her side.

She was the beloved wife for 65 years of Joseph F. Vallario, Jr.; mother of Angela Vallario (Howard Lenzer), Joseph F. Vallario, III (Lily), Anna Marcie Ferrante (Nick), Mary Elise Pesetsky (Ian), Lisa Romano (Antonio) and Christina Bellafiore (Ed); grandmother of Jacob, Ellie, Hannah and Daniel Pesetsky, Valarie and Brian Lenzer, Joseph, Annabella, Nicholas and Rosalia Ferrante, Anna, Joseph and Sophia Vallario, Lucia, Anthony, Christopher and Malina Bellafiore, Gianna, Antonio, Leonardo and Vincent Romano; sister of Martina Fowler (Mark) and the late Barbara, Cecelia and Kathy and aunt of Dr. Samuel Long. She is also survived by many other nieces, nephews and family members.

Born on July 25, 1939 in Washington, DC to the late Martin and Annabelle Thornton, Leasy was one of 5 daughters. She graduated from St. Cecelia’s High School and worked for 10 years with the Immigration and Naturalization Department before becoming a full-time Mother and Nana. Leasy enjoyed china painting, traveling with family and friends and taking care of the farm. The farm was always filled with love, laughter and lots of food around the big kitchen table. For more than 40 years she campaigned for her beloved husband, Joe. Family was important and she was extremely proud of her children and grandchildren who all regularly spent time with her on family beach vacations and at the river house where there were many celebrations. She enjoyed watching her daughters and granddaughters at horse shows. She loved attending her grandchildren’s dance and music recitals, gymnastics, plays, Irish dancing, lacrosse, baseball, hockey and soccer games. Each child and grandchild has a special “Nana” story because she made each one feel special in his or her own way. Recently she considered herself to be “treated like a queen” based on the daily care she received from her daughters, Marcie, Mary and Chrissy and gourmet dinners and visits from Angela, Joey and Lisa. She was extremely grateful for all the love and support she received from her nephew, Dr. Samuel Long, who she loved like a son. She had many blessings and she will be deeply missed by all. Leasy is now in heaven with her parents, sisters and other family and friends who have predeceased her where she can watch over us regardless of where we are. She was and will always be the rock of our family. Her loving and generous nature will carry on in each one of us who will strive to be more like “Nana” every day. Her kindness and funny personality touched the lives of everyone she met.

She will be deeply missed by all.

Friends are invited to celebrate Leasy's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Friday, August 30 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 8908 Old Branch Ave., Clinton, MD on Saturday, August 31 at 10 am. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton, MD.

Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Margaret Ann Colyn, of Alexandria, VA, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 24, 2024. Reunited with her beloved husband of 60 years, Peter Colyn, and her siblings Fr. Martin, John, Denis, and Thérèse. Sadly missed by her son Peter, daughter Margot, siblings Mary, Pat, Kitty, Phil, and Anthony, her son-in-law Patrick, daughter-in-law Jorgina, and grandchildren Hannah (Aaron), Patrick (Shelby), Mary Beth (Colton), Nathan, and Sydney (Jaime), great-grandchildren Aurelia and Ezekiel, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, and friends.

Born in Dunmore, Ireland, to John and Kitty Collins, Margaret later settled in the Washington, DC area with Peter, where she remained for most of her life. Margaret was a beautiful and elegant Irish woman, and a caring and generous wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was known for her love of learning, music, art, nature, and travel, often sharing her passions and recent reads with her family and friends. She was never one to sit down and kept those around her busy if they were idle. A gifted seamstress, she loved to make quilts and made many for her family as well as various charities. She was very proud to work for the US Navy for over 30 years but was most proud of her family; she cherished her family most of all, especially her children and grandchildren. Though she settled in the United States, she and Peter made many trips to her home in Ireland. Thankfully, she visited her siblings in Ireland last August. Margaret generously gave her family and friends all of the support and love in her heart and undoubtedly continues to watch over them from above.

May her gentle soul rest in peace. She will be missed.

A Memorial Mass will be offered on Tuesday, September 24th at 10:30 AM at The Basilica of St. Mary, 310 S Royal St, Alexandria, VA 22314. Interment will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.

The funeral mass can be viewed online on Tuesday, September 24th at 10:30 am via https://vimeo.com/event/4584661/fc3ee2e230


Obituaries

Trinh Huynh

Richard Ernstes

Marylynne Berard

Wesley Whitelock

Shannon Moore

David Shade

William Rawlings

Ronald Brown

Godson Onyeukwu Sr.

Saphia Freeman Whetstone

Roslyn Carole Beitler

Nada Syrnyk

Darryl Thomas

John Lauer, Jr.

Maxine Poles

Richard Wilson

Barbara Carr

William "Billy" Tucker, II

Thomas McCarthy, Sr.

Blossom Patterson

Cindy Troutman

Sara Taylor

Mary "Leasy" Vallario

Margaret Colyn