Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Sylvia Ann Cully, 89, passed away on Monday, January 1, 2024 at her home, in her own recliner, and in her sleep. She put her faith in Jesus and now resides in heaven with her Savior. She was born on July 4, 1934 in small town Dallastown, PA to the late Herbert and Mildred Peters and she died among family and close friends in Annapolis, MD. She graduated in 1952 from William Penn Senior High School in York, PA and in 1956 married Ronald Lee Cully. Ron and Sylvia moved to Riva, MD in order to get more stable jobs with the Federal Government. Sylvia was a great Mom to her two beautiful daughters, Beth and Brenda. She would happily make costumes, do crafts and work with their Girl Scout troop after returning from her full time job. Beth and Sylvia started attending Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EP) in 1975 and were later joined by Brenda. Both her daughters married Marine Corps Aviators and served their country alongside their husbands. Sylvia’s grandchildren and great grandchildren called her Tutu, after Tutu Wahine, grandmother in Hawaiian. Soon, her whole family affectionately called her Tutu. After commuting into DC together for decades, Ron and Sylvia retired from the Government Printing Office and spent 23 years together in a happy retirement. The family would like to acknowledge the exceptional care shown by friends from EP Church in Annapolis and Grace Presbyterian Church in Davidsonville. In addition to her parents, Sylvia was preceded in death by her husband, Ron and her daughter, Brenda Piirto. She is survived by her daughter, Beth Baur; her sons in law, Greg Baur and Mike Piirto; her grandkids, Sarah DiCerbo, Jessica Lewis, Hope Richards, Joy Frejka and First Lieutenant David Piirto, USAF and her great grandkids James, Joseph and Jonathan Lewis and Nora Richards.
<p style="text-align:center">Sylvia used to say someone was “putting on a show” if they were trying to impress people or were showing off. Sylvia was born on the 4th of July 1934 and
after a long happy life, she died on New Year’s Day 2024.
So, who’s putting on a show now Tutu?</p>
<center>  <p>Condolences may be made by using the Memories button on this page.</p></center>

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Ron and Sylvia's life on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at 2 pm at the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Annapolis, 710 Ridgely Ave, Annapolis, MD 21401.

Carolyn Olive Ritch, 88, of North Beach, MD, formerly of Oxon Hill, MD, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2024, with her daughter, son and daughter-in-law by her side. Born on June 4, 1935, near York, PA to the late Silas Ortman, Jr. and Mabel (Doll) Ortman, their family, including Carolyn’s late older brother, Charles Levere, relocated to Washington, DC. Carolyn attended Eastern High School, where she took business classes and played trumpet in the school marching band. In 1951 she met her future husband, John (Jack) N. Ritch, Jr. The pair were married on August 8, 1952, and remained inseparable until Jack’s death in 2004.

Carolyn worked in secretarial positions for several local companies, then began a long and proud career on Capitol Hill, where she served several congressmen, most notably US Congressman Steny Hoyer and US Senator John Glenn. In her second career, Carolyn won awards and was honored for her stellar sales and decorating skills with Home Interiors.

Carolyn was a devoted parishioner at St Columba Catholic Church in Oxon Hill. She served God there as a Lector, Eucharistic Minister, Ladies’ Sodality member, RCIA member, and Youth Group Leader for many years. Carolyn delighted in befriending and mentoring many teens in the Youth Group. The positive impact her kindness and care had upon many during those years will never be forgotten. Carolyn was also a long-suffering Redskins fan.

Jack and Carolyn cherished their visits to Ocean City, MD at the Breakers Hotel. 
Following Jack’s death, Carolyn moved to North Beach, MD. There she delighted in the beauty and serenity of the beach, never met a pink flamingo (anything) she did not love, and honed her story writing chops with the Scribblers at the North Beach Senior Center.

Carolyn always delighted in caring for others, and whether as a caregiver for an ill relative, or in her favorite role as a grandmother, she always demonstrated kindness, positivity and cheerfulness. Her joyful light shone brightly as an example for others, and in her cherished memory, it continues.

Carolyn is survived by her children, Teresa Robinson and her husband, Miles, of North Beach, MD, her son John Ritch and his wife, Kim, of Bridgewater, NJ, her granddaughters, Gina Ritch, Emily (Tim) Sweitzer, Melissa (Lucas) Ritch, Sarah (Brandon) Lamphere, and Emma Ritch, grandson Jack Ritch, and great grandchildren Gabriel, Jaxon, Lilliana, Ozzy, Luke, Daisy, and Eli, niece Dianne McNeal, nephew Dennie Ortman, cousins, and many dear friends. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2024, from 2-4 PM, and from 6-8 PM, at Kalas Funeral Home, at 6160 Oxon Hill Rd, Oxon Hill, MD. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 19, 2024, at 10 AM, at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7804 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, MD. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 8000 Woodyard Road, Clinton, MD. Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Lawrence Allan “Larry” Sturman, 84, a 22 year resident of Churchton, died on December 31, 2023 at South River Healthcare in Edgewater after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.   Born in Richmond, VA on December 28, 1939, Larry attended classes at the University of Maryland and served his country from 1959 until his honorable discharge in 1965.  He was a general contractor by trade, and in his spare time, he enjoyed bowling, fishing and meeting and talking to new people that he met. 
 
In addition to his parents, Joseph and Ida Sturman, he was preceded in death by a sister, Harriet Trudo.  Larry is survived by his wife, Gwendolyn Smith, with whom he had been together for 22 years; his stepchildren, Joseph Mattox, IV of Belmont, CA, Karen and Sheri Mattox of Virginia Beach, VA and Dawn Porterfield of Chesapeake, VA; his sister, Beverly Gordon of Gaithersburg, MD; eight grandsons, three granddaughters, eight great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Larry’s life on Tuesday, January 16 from 5-8 PM at Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomon’s Island Road, Edgewater.  A graveside service, with military honors, will be on Wednesday, January 17 at 1 PM at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery, 11301 Crain Highway, Cheltenham.  In lieu of flowers, memorials in Larry’s name may be made to Alzheimer’s Research, at www.alz.org/Maryland. 



John Charles Piazza, Sr., 84, a 20-year resident of Bradbury Heights, MD, and 50-year resident of District Heights, MD, passed away peacefully at Solomon’s Nursing Center on December 29, 2023.  John was born on February 27, 1939 in Washington, DC. He graduated from St. John’s College High School in Washington, DC in 1958. At St. John’s, he started as the varsity quarterback for three years under legendary coach Joe Gallagher. He led the Cadets to back-to- back City and Catholic League Championships in 1956 and 1957. John was also named First Team All-Prep by several newspapers including The Washington Daily News and The Washington Evening Star. He was honored as Athlete of the Week for his outstanding play in the 1957 City Championship game. John was a four-year Varsity letterman on the baseball squad, pitching a no-hitter his Freshman year, a remarkable feat. John went on to attend University of Maryland on a football scholarship and eventually became an Electrician for Local 26 IBEW. He worked at his trade for 40 years.

After a three-year courtship, John married Georgene Nau on October 22, 1960, and they had 8 children. John continued to nourish his love of sports by coaching CYO football and baseball at Mt. Calvary Catholic Church in Forestville, MD. He also officiated local high school football for 25 years.

John retired in 1993 and has been residing in District Heights, MD, with his wife Georgene. He cherished gatherings with his family and greatly enjoyed attending the grandchildren’s many activities. John was an active member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Upper Marlboro, MD.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Catherine (Galeano) Piazza, his sister Margaret Ellis, and son Jimmy Piazza. He is survived by his wife Georgene, his two daughters, five sons, and their spouses:  John Piazza (Regina); Monica Piazza; Ann Beall; Michael Piazza (Stacey); Stephen Piazza; Vincent Piazza (Anne); Angelo Piazza (Beth).

He is also survived by 18 grandchildren: Matthew and Katie Piazza; David, Anthony and Marie (Garzon) Russell; Kristin, David, Michael and Stephanie Beall; Michael and Anthony Piazza; Zachary, Dominic, and Joseph Piazza; Mia and Meghan Piazza; Isabel and Christopher Piazza. And 9 great grandchildren: Caroline, Paul and Natalie Piazza; Colton, Wyatt and Brayden Russell; Adam and Allison Russell; and Ronnie Tippett.

Relatives and friends are invited to John's Life Celebration on Thursday, January 11, 2024 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745.  Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Friday, January 12 at 11 a.m. at St Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 14908 Main St., Upper Marlboro, MD 20772. Interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 8000 Woodyard Rd., Clinton, MD. Memorial contributions may be made to
 <a href="https://www.stjohnschs.org/support/make-a-gift">St. John's College High School</a>

All services are private at this time. Please leave a message for her family by using the memories tab on this page.

Brian Damian Adam, 68, passed away on December 26, 2023 peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving wife and daughters.  “Big B”, as he was called by many, was a loyal teammate, loving husband, proud and dedicated father, doting grandfather, reliable friend, and gentle giant.

Born on August 12, 1955 in Ridley Park, PA to the late Gertrude and Robert Adam, Brian was the 5th of 8 Adam children.  He spent his youth running around Ridley with his buddies (one day calling themselves, the “Gentlemen of Ridley”) and trying not to get in trouble with the nuns at his Catholic school. Sports were a driving force in his life from day 1.

Brian attended Ridley High School, where he wrestled and played football. From Ridley, he continued his football career at the Naval Academy Prep school for one year. After deciding that Navy life was not for him, he started as a Tight End at the University of Delaware from 1974 to 1978.  Brian co-captained the team in 1977 and set numerous records during his time as a Blue Hen.  He still holds the single game reception mark for a tight end with 12 receptions in the 1977 game against Villanova. Brian was inducted into the DELCO 2022 Hall of Fame and in Ridley High School’s Hall of Fame. It was on campus his Junior year that he met the love of his life, Harriet.

After college, Brian and Harriet wed in Annapolis in 1983. They moved to Hunt Meadow in Annapolis from Virginia in 1987 where they would raise 3 daughters - Jessica, Anastasia, and Elizabeth.  Brian became the ultimate girl dad, and the family made lifelong friendships. In 2002 they made the short move north to Boone Trail in Severna Park, where Brian fell in love with the Severn River. Though he would say otherwise, he was a mediocre captain but made up for his nautical shortcomings with enthusiasm.

Brian’s professional career started after he received his MBA at Widener University and joined US Air, then Amtrak where he rose through the ranks to Treasurer, then acting CFO. He left Amtrak to pursue Investment Banking at Capstar Partners in New York City. Although he loved the energy of the city, he took a job at Suntrust Bank in Baltimore to be closer to his girls. He was always passionate about renewable energy and had the opportunity to start Chesapeake Solar Investments, where he was a Principal until his retirement. 

Brian’s unofficial career was a coach. He spent his weekends coaching his daughters in various recreational league sports. He did not hold that title for their high school or college teams, but his voice could still be heard loud and clear from the sidelines at every game, always with words of encouragement or reminding them to “get low.” 

To know Brian was to love him. He radiated optimism and openness. Brian’s favorite phrase, heard every morning at Boone Trail, was “Great day to be alive!” An initial Parkinson’s and eventual MSA diagnosis 10 years ago put that optimism to the test. Brian fought his battle courageously to the end with a resilient spirit and a smile on his face.

Brian is survived by his forever bride, Harriet; his daughters, Jessica, Anastasia (Jeff Begin), and Elizabeth; and his grandchildren, Elizabeth James and namesake Brian Damian. 

A celebration of Brian’s extraordinary life will be held at 1pm on Saturday, January 6, 2024 at St. Mary’s Parish at 109 Duke of Gloucester Street in Annapolis. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, those who would like to honor him can donate to the Michael J. Fox Foundation <a href="http://bit.ly/bda83">Here.</a> Brian found great comfort and support in the Foundation’s resources and research initiatives throughout his fight. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page. 

William Richard Schmidt, age 89, passed away on Tuesday, December 26, 2023 in Waldorf, MD; the beloved husband of the late Peggy Jo-An Schmidt; father of Terry Walker, Tina (Bill) Lackey, and Tammy Chaffee(Mike); grandfather of Kimberly, Pamela, Billy, Rebecca, and Lynsey. He is also survived by 12 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Relatives and friends are invited to Richard's Life Celebration on Monday, January 8 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 P.M. at KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD where his services will be held on Tuesday, January 9 at 11:00 A.M. Interment to follow at Fort Lincoln Cemetery, Brentwood, MD. In lieu of flowers, family and friends are invited to make memorial contributions to Camp Springs Elks Lodge #2332, 7350 Temple Hill Rd., Temple Hills, MD 20748 or  by emailing SpadoneCharles@aol.com to make a digital contribution. 

Barbara Anne Liff née Clark of Annapolis, MD passed peacefully on December 26 at the age of 92 due to complications of flu and pneumonia. Born on December 13, 1931, at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, DC to the late Melvin Louis and Mary Louise Henley Clark, Barbara proudly grew up in Washington, DC, attending St. Martin’s School, Class of 1946, and St. Cecelia’s Academy, Class of 1950. She also graduated from Immaculata Junior College in Washington, D.C. Barbara married Donald Eugene Liff on June 16, 1956, and they raised four children. Barbara was a lifelong Catholic and served the church as an elementary school teacher, first at the then-family home parish, St. Camillus in Silver Spring, MD, and then at St. Mark’s in Hyattsville, MD.  After moving to Annapolis, Barbara was an active member of both St. Mary’s and St. John Neumann for over 35 years. Barbara and Don spent their summers at the beach in Fenwick Island, DE for more than 50 years in the waterfront community of Cape Windsor, where they enjoyed the companionship of their neighbors and provided their family an open-door policy to everyone who visited, including a boat ride and a few steamed crabs. When they retired, Barbara and Don moved to Heritage Harbour in Annapolis, where you would find Barbara active in social activities, including water aerobics, golfing, Red Hat social clubs, playing Bridge or Bunco, or enjoying the dances and parties held at the lodge. Barbara rarely said no to an invitation and was ready at a moment’s notice to go anywhere and have some fun. She is survived by her husband, Donald E. Liff; her children, Terrence Clark (Gail) Liff and Rosemary Anne Liff (Scott) Kirwin; her six grandchildren, James “Jay” (Sarah) Walsh, Bradley (Stephanie) Walsh, Alexandra Liff (Patrick) Small, Caitlin Liff (Daniel) Schiavo, Keegan (Shelton) Liff and Kelsey Liff; her eleven great-grandchildren, Carter, Landon and J.R. Walsh and Dean, Blair and Henley Walsh, Clark Schiavo, Ian and Nolan Small, Cecelia Hudson and Margaret Liff; her brother, Donald Clark of Seffner, FL; she is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and their children. Barbara was preceded in death by her children, Donna Louise Liff (James) Walsh, Timothy Eugene (Carla) Liff, and her brother, Melvin ‘Sonny’ Clark, Jr. Barbara and Don were always very proud of their beautiful family. Friends are invited to celebrate Barbara’s life on Monday, January 29 from 1 to 3 and 6 to 8 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd, Edgewater, MD. Mass of the Resurrection will be offered on Tuesday, January 30 at 10:30 am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N. Bestgate Rd, Annapolis, MD. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Barbara may be made to the Wellness House of Annapolis, 2625 Mas Que Farm Rd, Annapolis, MD 21403 (annapoliswellnesshouse.org) 



Sally Macanlalay Dela Cruz of Fort Washington, 81, passed away
on Christmas Day peacefully in her sleep. She is survived by her
husband of 57 years, Cesar Dela Cruz. She is also survived by
her children, Sidney, Jennifer, and Erwin Dela Cruz; son-in-law
Anthony Manuel; grandchildren, Jenaya, Nevaeh, Veronica,
Adam, Marlie, and Jada; and siblings, Luis Macanlalay (Tezy),
David Macanlalay (Pat), and Luisa Macanlalay. She joins her
eldest daughter, Vanessa Manuel, in Heaven.

Sally was born in Calasiao, Pangasinan, Philippines and was the
daughter of Vitaliano Macanlalay and Virginia Domagas. She
graduated college from Philippines Normal University in 1965
with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Education and began
work as a teacher. She married her husband, Cesar, in 1966 and
soon after moved to the United States where he was stationed.
They eventually settled in Fort Washington, Maryland, in 1980
where they raised their four children. For the majority of Sally’s
career, she worked at Pepco (Exelon) in Washington, D.C.,
where she retired as a Distribution Designer after serving over
40 years. Sally enjoyed traveling with her husband, especially
back home to the Philippines. She loved being out and about
and spending time with her family and friends. Sally took pride
and joy watching her children and grandchildren grow up, and
woke up grateful each day for having lived a long and full life.

Relatives and friends are invited to Sally's Life Celebration on Saturday, January 6, 2024 from 10 a.m. until the start of the funeral service at 12 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD. Interment will be held privately at a later date. 

Mildred Gail Hill, a resident of Edgewater, MD, passed away on Sunday, December 24, 2023 at the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center at the age of 76.

Gail was raised in Garrett County, MD by her parents Ervin and Beuhla Georg.  She moved to the DC suburbs as a young adult, where she raised a family and pursued a career in accounting.  She retired to Edgewater to be close to her daughter.

During retirement, she enjoyed relaxing at home, visiting with her daughter and spoiling her grand dog.  Her happy place was sitting by the water, and she loved fresh air and breezes by the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

She was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Wayne Georg.  She is survived by her daughter, Patricia, her son-in-law Rob, and her two nieces, Tiffany Stewart and Brianne O'Brien.

It was her wish to be cremated.  There will be a private gathering for family at one of her favorite waterfront restaurants in the spring.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 26th at 11 AM at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill MD 20745. 

Family and friends are invited to gather on Sunday, January 7th from 2-8 PM at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 to celebrate Meynardo's life. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Monday, January 8th at 10 AM at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7804 Livingston Rd, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. A burial will follow at St. Mary's of Piscataway Church Cemetery.

Joseph Charles Farrell, known to his family as Joe, passed away on December 24, 2023, at the age of 75, in Baltimore, MD, after a brief illness. He was born on February 27, 1948, to the late Ruth Fitzgerald Farrell and Joseph Charles Farrell. 

Joe was a dedicated family man who found joy in coaching softball, soccer, and lacrosse and supporting all of his children’s endeavors. Joe had a passion for fishing, spending time at the beach, and proudly making pasta for Sunday dinners for family and friends. He never missed an opportunity for mischief and playing jokes on his family. Seven years ago, he brought a Goldendoodle puppy home; Finley became Joe’s constant companion. They loved frequent trips to Home Depot and long walks in Quiet Waters Park. Most importantly, however, he cherished his role as a grandfather to his seven grandchildren. He was so proud of the young adults they have become.

Joe attended DeMatha Catholic High School and later pursued higher education at the University of Maryland. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, Joe began his 50-year career in the field of utility construction, beginning at the entry-level and rising to Vice President of R. Marinucci & Sons, Inc. 

Joe is survived by his wife, Cristina Marinucci Farrell, and his children, Michael J. Farrell (Natasha), Steven R. Farrell (Kasey), and Julie M. Parker (David). He was the proud grandfather of Shannon and Mackenzie Farrell, Molly, Conor and Ryan Farrell, Alexandra (Lexi), and Adrianna Parker. He is also survived by his devoted sister, Kathleen Tynan (Robert), and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held on Saturday, December 30, 2023, from 2-5 PM at The Atreeum at Soaring Timbers, 610 N. Bestgate Road, Annapolis, MD.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to <a href="https://giving.childrensnational.org/site/Donation2?df_id=12624&mfc_pref=T&12624.donation=form1&s_src=website&s_subsrc=hero">Children’s National Medical Center</a>, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, or <a href="https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sc_icid=header-btn-donate-now">St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital</a>, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Biography of Bertha M. Pitcher
September 24, 1936 – December 22, 2023

Bertha was born to the late William and Agnes Kyle, in Wheeling, West Virginia and moved to Washington, DC at the age of nine.  Bertha was the “rose between two thorns” with her older brother, Billy Kyle and younger brother, Harold Kyle.  The family moved to Capitol Heights, Maryland when Bertha was twelve years old.  Here she met her long-time best friend, Addie Miller.  She worked part-time at the local Five and Dime with her favorite post at the candy counter. Bertha attended Catholic grade school and sang in the choir.  She graduated from Suitland High School in 1954 where she excelled in English and typing, and took a job at the telephone company.  

While her brother Billy was in the Army, he met Robert Pitcher, who upon their return from Germany had no ride home.  He brought Bob to his house in the middle of the night so Bertha met her future husband for the first time in her pajamas.  Bob and Bertha were married on July 17, 1960 and moved to a tiny home in a far away place called Accokeek.  After three years, Bob built their own brick home on a knoll surrounded by trees and a luscious lawn.  There Bob and Bertha raised three daughters, Roxanne (Brian), Marcia (Mark), and Mary Beth (Jerry).  Bertha was her happiest as a mother to her three precious girls and took great pride in keeping a tidy home.  They had wonderful neighbors on Main Boulevard and many dear friends throughout Accokeek. 

In 1976, Bertha began working part-time for the Prince George’s County Library in the Accokeek, Oxon Hill and Clinton branches.  As an avid reader herself, she appreciated the quiet and detailed work shelving and checking out books. In 1983, Bertha accepted a position as a Secretary in the Plasma Physics Division at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory.  Dedicated as ever, she brought home scientific papers to proofread while curled up on the couch in the evenings.  She retired in 1998 and to this day, scientists remember Bertha and commend her excellent work.

These years were filled with many difficulties because of Bob’s several bouts with cancer.  Bertha stood by his side for every appointment and surgery, keeping track of all the medications and procedures, and was known to correct the paperwork kept by the doctors’ offices.  Together they lived out their vows of marriage lovingly for 52 years until Bob passed in 2012.  Bertha kept their house for the next three years, cutting grass on the riding lawn mower herself.  She then moved in with Mary Beth for six years and enjoyed the often chaotic home with five of her grandkids, helping with the excess of dishes and laundry. Lastly, Bertha lived in a group home for Alzheimer patients for 15 months.  A woman who came from humble beginnings passed away peacefully and was cared for like a queen.

Bob and Bertha were blessed with eight grandchildren:  Kathleen (PJ), Joel, Kyle (Kaitlyn), Natalie, Seth, Evan, Paul and Luke, whom they doted upon and enjoyed tremendously, and they all loved their grandparents back just as affectionately.  We all fondly remember Bertha as the sweetest, kindest, and most loving wife, mother, friend, coworker and grandmother.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution toward a new church organ at her beloved St. Mary’s of Piscataway, 13405 Piscataway Road, Clinton, MD 20735. https://saintmaryspiscataway.net/. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, December 30th at 10 AM at St. Mary's Catholic Church of Piscataway, 13401 Piscataway Rd, Clinton, MD 20735. A reception in the church hall will immediately follow the burial. 

Elisabeth (Betty) Moeller, 85, of Temple Hills, MD, was born on April 4, 1938, in Ruckers, Germany. At 18, she immigrated to the United States to work for the family business, House of Fine Fabrics, for many years.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Augusta and Hermann Moeller, her sister, Rosa Zyla, and her brother, William Moeller.

She is survived by her nieces and nephews, Theresa (Tom) Hutchinson, John (Tabatha) Zyla, Donna (Neal) Swientisky, Linda (Jeff) Roe, and Thomas Zyla. She was blessed with numerous great-nieces and nephews.
Elisabeth's life followed the path of her patron saint, Elizabeth of Hungary, who served the poor, sick, and suffering. Her life was dedicated to doing just that. She would attend the tapings of the Sunday TV Mass For Shut-Ins at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception for years. She said Mass "lifts me spiritually," and she wanted the same experience for those who could not attend Mass in person.    She visited people in the hospital because she felt they were anxious and nervous, and she felt her presence with prayer and communion would be calming to them. 

She spent four days a week volunteering at various hospitals and nursing homes until she was unable to drive herself. 

She had accrued more volunteer hours in service than any other volunteer in the history of Greater Southeast Community Hospital. It was over 20 years and over 19 thousand hours (equivalent to 10 years of full-time work)!!! She continued to practice and share her faith wherever she could when she moved to Sunrise over two years ago.
Her home was always filled with boxes of rosaries, miraculous medals, and scapulars that she paid for with her own money to give to the people she would visit.

In 2003, The Bishop awarded her the Medal of Merit for her service to the Church.
One of her favorite sayings was, "German people don't give up." She truly believed that after being in pain from neck surgery, car accidents, and muggings, she would not let it stop her from doing her ministry work. She would say," I still have a lot of work to do on this earth," and she did that until she could not do so.

Her eternal steadfastness, determination, compassion, and energy will be remembered by those blessed to know her.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Elisabeth's life at St. Bernardine of Siena Catholic Church, 2400 Brooks Dr., Suitland, MD, on Friday, January 5, 2024, from 9:00 am until her Mass of Christian Burial is celebrated at 10:00 am. Interment will immediately follow at George Washington Cemetery, 9500 Riggs Rd., Adelphi, MD.

Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Of Mechanicsville, MD, formerly of Morningside, MD, passed away on December 22, 2023 with her family by her side. Beloved daughter of the late Carrie B. and Grover L. Carr. She was born in Washington, DC on October 5, 1949 and attended Crossland High School. Brenda was a homemaker for many years and as her children got older, she went to work for Clairol. She is survived by her daughters, Lea D. Auman (Jeffrey) and Tracey D. King (Geoffrey) of Mechanicsville, MD; five grandchildren, Jenna (Lacey), Nick (Alyssa), Brandon (Shelby), Tara, and Rachel; four great grandchildren Mason, Lucille, Harper and Brooks (whom she was anxiously awaiting his arrival), her siblings, Gilbert Carr, Dennis Carr (Dorothy), Randy Myers (Wayne), brother-in-law William M. Handley (Charlotte). She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins, including Peg Spangler who was not only a cousin but a friend and constant support for Brenda (Love you more). 
 
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 46 years Leo E. Handley, her parents Grover and Carrie Carr, her father and mother-in-law Robert F. and Ellen W. Handley, her sisters Melba (Norm) and Saundra (Richard), her sister-in-law Betty Carr, her brother-in-law Robert F. Handley III (Judie), and her cherished Aunt Dot.
 
Brenda loved bowling and was a weekly bowler for the past 50 years. She made many friends over the years and loved spending time with her Friday morning bowling league. 
 
She was a caring and nurturing person. She cared for many family members in their times of need including her father, mother, her husband, and her Aunt Dot. She had two rescue cats (Squeaky and Felix) that were loved dearly and incredibly spoiled. She loved her neighbors and enjoyed sitting under her wisteria vine on Maple Road in Morningside and when she moved to Golden Beach she could be found on her front porch, sipping her Miller Lite and chatting with any neighbor that happened to walk by. Her neighbors Cindy and Buddy Ford quickly became family to Brenda and were so important in her life. To know her was to love her. She will forever be missed.
 
Relatives and friends are invited to Brenda's Celebration of Life on Thursday, January 4, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. with the memorial service starting at 12 noon at Mechanicsville Moose Lodge, 27636 Mechanicsville Road, Mechanicsville, MD. Interment at Resurrection Cemetery, 8000 Woodyard Road, Clinton, MD on Friday, January 5, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of St. Mary’s P.O. Box 625 Leonardtown, MD 20650.







Family and friends are invited to celebrate Zane's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD on Wednesday, December 27 from 6 to 8 pm. A funeral service will be held at Cedar Grove Methodist Church, 5965 Deale Churchton Rd., Deale, MD on Thursday, December 28 at noon. Interment Lakemont Memorial Gardens, Davidsonville, MD. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Zane's memory can be made to Mal's Pals Foundation online at <a href="https://malspalsfoundation.org/?fbclid=IwAR2riXDBVYyP-9ZhRQPOsnRupqQKqOqk9jcrUovQv9SfFgY7IwHQG5k21NM">Mal's Pals</a>

Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the Memories tab on this page.

Jenafred Juliet Shore “Jenny, Juliet”, 72, a resident of Annapolis, MD for forty-eight years and previously of Fairhaven, NJ died on December 22, 2023 at the Anne Arundel Medical Center. Born on March 6, 1951 in Gary, IN to the late William and Luba Shore, Jenny earned a Master of Arts degree in library science at the University of Maryland. She was employed by the Anne Arundel County Library system and served at the West Street Annapolis and Hillsmere branches.  She was a devotee of the classical performing arts and worked with the State University of NY at Purchase, the Princeton NJ Ballet School and the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, as well as volunteering with the Annapolis Ballet and the Annapolis Opera.  She enjoyed reading and knitting. Jenny is survived by her husband of 48 years, Richard Kaminski; her children, Andrew of New York, NY and Alexandra of Arnold, MD; her sister, Gretchen of Albuquerque, NM and her granddaughter, Rosemary Alexandra Roberts. A celebration of life will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the SPCA of Anne Arundel County, 1815 Bay Ridge Ave., Annapolis, MD 21403. Online condolences may be offered using the Memories tab on this page.

Shirley Eleanor Diehlman, 95, a resident of Asbury Solomons for 10 years passed peacefully at home on December 21, 2023 with her daughter, April, by her side. She was a beloved wife, mother, mother–in-law and grandmother. Born on April 22, 1928 in Washington, DC to the late Nettie L. and Joseph E. Goheens, her family settled in Montross, VA after the untimely passing of her father in 1931. She and her eight siblings were close despite their wide range in ages. While visiting an older sister in Baltimore, MD, Shirley met her future husband, Elmer Diehlman. They married in 1948 and shortly thereafter moved to Coronado, CA where Elmer was assigned to serve in the U.S. Navy.  However, before moving, Shirley worked for the CIA, a brief career but one of which she was most proud. After the Korean War ended, they moved with their infant son back to Maryland where two daughters were born. In 1961 they moved into the “dream” home they planned, saved for and designed in Accokeek, MD. As she raised her family, Shirley enjoyed membership in the Accokeek Garden Club and the Moyaone Reserve Association. During these years, she developed her talents for painting, designing and creating Faberge eggs as well as flower arranging.  She also earned a reputation as an outstanding homemaker, hostess, cook and seamstress.  Shirley was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 66 years, Elmer, who passed away in 2014;  her siblings, Virgil, Bernard and Joseph Goheens, Irma Bolen, Ruth Bryan, Evelyn Westray, Elizabeth Dameron and Jean Goheens. She is survived by her children, Kurt and his wife, Donna of Gainesville, FL, Robin Diehlman of Sausalito, CA and April Meadows and her husband, Wade of White’s Landing, MD and her granddaughters, Andie Meadows of Chicago, IL and Lyndsey Sullivan and her husband, Colby of Gainesville, FL.  The family is exceedingly grateful to the wonderful caregivers, particularly Kat, Darlene, Wendy and Pat for the loving care and comfort they provided.  No services are planned. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org). Condolences may be left by using the Memories button on this page.

Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. Andrew by the Bay Catholic Church, 701 College Pkwy., Annapolis, MD. Interment will follow at Oxford Cemetery in Oxford, MD. Condolences may be left by using the Memories button on this page.

Brian Lee Cockrell, “Big Dog”, 60, a 29-year resident of Shady Side and previously of Hyattsville, MD passed away on Sunday, December 17, 2023, at Anne Arundel Medical Center after a brief illness.

Brian was born on April 16, 1963, in Silver Spring, MD to the late Thomas and Elizabeth Cockrell. He proudly served his country in the US Army. Brian was a carpenter whose interests included hunting and fishing.

In addition to his parents, Brian was preceded in death by his half-brothers, Rocky and Thomas Cockrell.

Brian is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Jamie Zugay, his daughter, Megan Cockrell of Churchton, siblings; George Cockrell of MD and Bonnie Powers of Arizona and his half-siblings, Greg Marzec of MD, Darlene Strohecker of MD and Sonya Faulconer of MD.

All services for Brian will be private at this time. Please take a moment and leave a message of condolence for Brian’s family by using the memories tab on this page.



Daniel J. “Dan” “Danny” Cermak, Jr., 79, a 25-year resident of West River and previously of Davidsonville, died of natural causes on December 17, 2023 in Crofton, MD.   Born in Baltimore on April 22, 1944, to the late Daniel J. Cermak, Sr. and Gertrude Anne (Sexton) Cermak, Dan grew up in Riviera Beach and attended St. Jane Frances School before graduating from Glen Burnie High School. He honorably served his country as a member of the United States Coast Guard and worked for many years in the sales industry. A member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Annapolis, Dan loved Christmastime, being with family and friends, and valued time spent near the water. He was a great cook who loved trying new recipes and was known as a gentle soul with a kind heart who was loved by many.

Dan is survived by his wife, Charlotte Diana Cermak; and his siblings, James Cermak (Linda) of Boonsboro, MD, Margaret Castagnola (Michael) of Crofton, Marie Truffer of Sykesville, MD, Joan Cade of Pasadena, MD and Karen Emge (Thomas) of Lebanon, PA.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 23, from 10-11 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 31 Rowe Blvd., Annapolis. Burial will follow in Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville.  

Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Relatives and friends are invited to George's Life Celebration on Wednesday, January 3, 2024 from 10 a.m. until the start of the funeral service at 11 a.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD. Interment to follow with Military Honors at Maryland Veterans Cemetery, 11301 Crain Highway, Cheltenham, MD 20623 at 1 p.m.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, December 20 at 11 am at Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville, MD. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Obituaries

Sylvia Cully

Carolyn Ritch

Lawrence "Larry" Sturman

John Piazza, Sr.

Charlotte Walters

Brian Adam

W. Richard Schmidt

Barbara Liff

Sally Dela Cruz

Mildred Hill

Faye Rivers

Meynardo Perez

Joseph Farrell

Bertha Pitcher

Elisabeth Moeller

Brenda Handley

Zane Parks

Jenafred Shore

Shirley Diehlman

Joan Elehwany

Brian Cockrell

Daniel Cermak, Jr.

George Ritchie

Robert Lawrence, Sr.