Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

A complete obituary will be posted here soon.  Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on the left side of this page.


Hubert L. (Sonny) Cave, Jr., 87, of Davidsonville, MD, died at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home on Thursday, January 2, 2025.   Born on April 10, 1937 in Washington, DC, Sonny is survived by his daughters, Diane Cave of Davidsonville and Jean Teetsell (Dale) of Davidsonville, grandson Michael Staples, Jr. (Katy), granddaughter Raquel Cave and great-granddaughter Kinlee Staples.   He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Carol Cave, his son, Hubert L. (Butch) Cave, III, and his daughter Nancy Basham.  

Sonny grew up in Washington, DC, and attended Western High School.  He served in the U.S. Navy and was a member of the District of Columbia Police Department.  Following his retirement from the police department, he moved to Anne Arundel County and worked for the Annapolis Housing Authority.   Sonny will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather and as an avid fan of thoroughbred horse racing, the Washington Nationals, and Washington Redskins. 

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Sonny's life on Friday, January 10, 2025, from 2 pm until 4 pm and from 6 pm to 8 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. A Memorial Mass will be offered on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 11 am at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W. Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD 21035. The interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers memorial Contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place • Memphis, TN 38105, or online <a Href="https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?frequency_selected=0&dedication=1&sc_dcm=58700008795904289&sc_cid=kwp&sc_cat=b&&&&&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAj9m7BhD1ARIsANsIIvCzvvb_24T-oMKA_A8AuOdBZ-zwMVaj399WYDVUUA9WdoWHK20M4osaAvSeEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">HERE</a>

Online condolences may be made by using the memories tab on this page.

Annie May Pugh was born on October 13, 1922 to the iate Deacon Johnnie and Mrs. Bessie Pugh in Boykins, Virginia. Annie was predeceased by her brothers, Robert, Linwood and George; and her sisters, Rosa May Everett, Fannie Lee Thomas, and Frances Barnes. Annie attended Rising Star School in Branchville, Virginia.

Henry Clayton Kee, of Southampton County, Virginia, was Annie's first husband. They relocated to Washington, D.C. shortly thereafter. They had a daughter, Mary Elizabeth, in Washington, D.C. Henry Kee preceded Annie in death.

Annie enjoyed playing soft ball with her family and friends. She had a great love for house plants and they flourished in her home. Annie also had a flair for fashion. Her natural fashion sense was evidenced by her ability to coordinate ensembles not only for herself but for others as well.

Annie career was almost exclusively in sales, which fitted well with her personality because of her ease and friendliness with all types of people. She served as a sales person until her retirement.

Annie met her future husband Arthur F. Bates and they were married in 1980. She became a member of the Queens organization of the Knights of Columbus, St, Pius X Council and served as their Historian in 1993. Arthur Bates preceded Annie in death in January 2011. "Step-daughter, Lorraine Bates Akins, also preceded Annie in death in 2024.

Annie leaves behind her daughter Mary Elizabeth Kee, Step-son Arthur Anthony (Tony) Bates, Step-daughter Carol Bates-Morris, Sisters Ruth Claud-Thomas and Doris Mildred Marshall, Niece Earnell Patricia Keels, Step grandchildren Joy Aikins and Arthur Anthony Bates, Jr., and a host of nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. 


Relatives and friends are invited to Mrs. Bates' Life Celebration on Monday, January 13, 2025 from 10 a.m. until the start of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 2800 Pennsylvania Ave., S.E., Washington, DC 20020. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. 


Joyce E. Patterson-Lee, 67, a 22 year resident of Edgewater and previously of Bridgeton, NJ, died January 2, 2025.  Born in Fort Belvoir, VA on February 21, 1957 to the late Francis and Keturah Patterson, Joyce was a homemaker and member of Chesapeake Christian Fellowship.  In her spare time, she enjoyed bowling and knitting.

Joyce is survived by her son, Loren Lee of Edgewater; her sister, Elizabeth Mints of Edgewater and her brother, David Patterson of Denver, CO.

Family and friends are invited to Joyce’s funeral on Wednesday, January 8 at 12 noon at Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater.  In lieu of flowers, memorials in her name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.


Don Sheree Bryant Spear, daughter of the late Master Gunnery Sgt. William F. Bryant, Sr., USMC (retired) and the late Blossom Leona Dean Bryant, was born on August 9th, 1954, in Camp Lejeune, NC.  She departed this life on the afternoon of January 2, 2025, at the age of 70. She confessed Christ at an early age. Sheree lived a wonderful active childhood growing up with her two parents and an older brother. Sheree loved animals and after several years of begging by her and her brother, her parents finally relented, and the family got a cocker spaniel puppy which she named Jinx. She and her brother would spend hours playing with Jinx and she would often share her food with Jinx.

She attended John H. Russell elementary school where she entered an essay contest sponsored by the ‘Daughters of the American Revolution’ and won an honorable mention and a trip to the DAR in Washington DC along with other students who had won awards. During this time, she developed a love of the performing arts. Her mother nurtured this interest by enrolling her in ballet, tap dancing, modern dance, and acrobatics. She would amaze the family with her remarkable flexibility. She could walk on her hands while simultaneously putting both feet behind her head. She enjoyed being before an audience and joined the drama club in junior high where she danced and sang in the school
production of the musical Oklahoma entertaining friends and family.

As a child, Sheree was always fascinated with exotic foreign lands, and she would fantasize about visiting such places. Her mother once told her that when she was just three years old, she actually passed through Juarez, Mexico when the family drove from Los Angeles to Quantico, VA after her father was transferred by the Marine Corps to a new duty station. After hearing what was to her very exciting news, Sheree insisted that she no longer wanted to be born in South Carolina, but preferred to be born in Mexico, and for a long time after that, when anyone asked, she would tell them that she was born in Mexico.

She began studying Spanish in elementary school. She took her Spanish lessons very seriously and chose to continue throughout junior high and high school, where she joined the Spanish club and enjoyed speaking Spanish with other club members, studying various Spanish speaking cultures and taking field trips to Spanish restaurants.

She would also read a Spanish cartoon strip in the newspaper whenever she could. Her post high school desire was to be an interpreter with the U.S. State Department.

In July 1972, while working as a Student at the Dining Facility on Bolling AFB, DC she saw and met a young Airman Bobby J Spear. One evening while she and some friends were at the Base Pool, she was pushed into the water. She left the pool soaking wet, where Airmen Spear aided her with a towel and protection. This began a near Fifty years romance and 47 years of marriage. Sheree and Bobby married on October 15, 1977.
She came close to her dream of being employed by the U.S. State Department. She obtained a job with Voice of America. At a brief time, she later worked at the U.S State Department until she decided to become a full-time mom.

Sheree was a graduate of Ballou High School in Washington DC, she attended Federal City College and Chesapeake Business Institute. When her daughter was born, she decided to become a full-time mother and stay-at-home spouse. She loved cooking, shopping, and spending time with her mother on various shopping trips or just to hang out with most
every day Sheree was a quite person who love to dance with Bobby and try different recipes she had seen in the many cookbooks. She is preceded in death by her parents Master Gunnery Sergeant William F. Bryant USMC (retired) and Mrs. Blossom Leona Dean Bryant. Father-in-Law Bemus Spear and Mother-in-Law Mrs. Linnie B Spear, Brother-in-Laws Freddie Spears, and David L (Deborah) Spear, Sister-in-Law Dorthy Williams. Nieces Regina Spear and Amy Williams.

She is survived by her husband Bobby J Spear, Daughter Blair Shaene’ Spear, Deontae J Simms, her Grandsons Bryant J. Simms and Dylan J Simms, Step-son Donald J Henry III, Brother William F. (Anabelle Rone) Bryant II, Brother-in-Law(s) Bemus (Janice) Spear, Johnny W. (Alice) Spears, Sister-in-laws Carollyn Spear Holman, Agnes Gaynell Spear,
Lynda G. (Larry W) Spear Ball Deborah (David) Spear special nephew William F. (Fatima Quander) Bryant III. A host of Nephews, Nieces, and cousins.


Family and friends are invited to celebrate Don's Life Celebration on Monday, February 10 from 10-11 AM at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY: 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. A memorial service will begin at 11 A.M. Inurnment will take place at 2:30 P.M. at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery: 11301 Robert S. Crain Highway Cheltenham, MD. 

Stanley Thomas Krawczewicz (Stash) died peacefully in his sleep on December 31, 2024, less than two weeks after his 96th birthday. Stanley was born in Braddock, PA, to Julian Krawczewicz and Victoria Malinowska, who immigrated from Poland in 1910 and 1911, respectively. He was the second youngest of eight predeceased siblings (Sophie, Helen, Jane, Edward, Stella, Cecelia, and Eugene). 

He lived a wonderful life, steadfastly focused on his large family and lifelong friends. As a teenager, Stanley was the “Prez” of seventeen friends (Club 17). The club headquarters was in an alley behind the rowhouses where the Krawczewiczs live. The Club 17 members remained lifelong friends of Stanley and his family. They traveled and explored the east coast in several junky Model A’s that Stanley somehow got running. They formed close bonds and they took care of each other. 

Stanley was drafted into the Korean War and served over 12 tough months five miles from the DMZ. After returning from the war, Stanley went to the University of Pittsburg and graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering under the G.I. bill. He was the first in his family to earn a college degree. Shortly after graduating, Stanley married Dolores Lewandowski from McKeesport, PA, in 1957. 

Stash and his beloved wife Dolores moved to Washington, D.C., for a job at the U.S. Patent Office. They had four children: Louanne (Matt) Myers,  Mark (Lynn), Thomas (Chris), and William (Mary). The essence of Stanley is he was both an engineer and an artist. He could fix or build anything and solve problems with resiliency and grit. Every room of his home was filled with music. He also felt compelled to help people who faced injustice. He passionately raised his children to do the same. The family blossomed for the next 27 years until the untimely passing of his beloved wife, Dolores, in 1984. Stanley retired from the Patent Office two years later as a Patent Judge.

Stanley handled this great sorrow with incredible grace, strength, and determination. 
Dolores’s mother (Julia Lewandowski) lived with Stanley for the next 13 years to help the family. He immersed himself in his family, and not surprisingly, a little of his silly yet funny humor began to shine through.

Stanley is survived by nine grandchildren:  Jill  (Ryan) Thompson, Manteo, NC; Thomas Krawczewicz (Danielle) Thompson, PA; Nicole Krawczewicz, Seattle, Washington; Brendan Krawczewicz Charleston, SC; Ryan Krawczewicz Lake Tahoe, NV, Kira Myers Baltimore MD,  Christopher Myers Arlington VA, Michelle Moseley Baltimore MD and Jay Moseley (Kristen) Leesburg VA and Dolores Krawczewicz Severna Park, MD. Stanley is also survived by two (2) great-grandchildren, Ellidy Thompson Manteo, NC, and Lydia Moseley Leesburg, VA. His most commendable accomplishment in life was his family and friends.

At age 74, Stash was blessed to meet the second love of his life, Dolores Kopchak, Linden, NJ. For the next 22 years, Dolores and Stash’s partnership brought great joy to them and their families. The magical place they shared together was a cabin (never quite finished but a team project) in northeast Pennsylvania. Dolores’s family loved Stash as one of their own, as he loved them, too. 

Services will be held at St. Mathias Catholic Church in Lanham, MD, on Saturday, January 18, at 10:30 a.m. A viewing will be held from 9:30 until 10:30 at the Church prior to the Mass. Burial will be on Monday, January 20, at St. Mary’s Polish Cemetery in McKeesport, PA. 

In lieu of flowers, please remember his character by helping a family member, a friend, or a complete stranger who is in need -  Pay it Forward.

Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Robert Herkert, April 29, 1926 – December 31, 2024

Robert Francis Herkert, known as Bob by family and friends, of Palm Coast, FL and Edgewater, MD, was the son of Marie Antoinette “Toni” (nee Rauch) and Henry “Harry” Francis Herkert.  He was born and raised in the Brookline neighborhood of Pittsburgh, PA.  

Bob graduated Connelley High School in Pittsburgh, PA in 1944.  Upon completion of his graduation requirements, Bob enlisted in the US Navy and served in World War II.  His mother accepted his diploma in his absence.  Bob served on a lengthy deployment on the destroyer USS Larson in the Pacific before discharge after the end of WWII.  After discharge, he returned to Pittsburgh where he worked as a carpenter for his grandfather at the Peter Rauch Building Company and enjoyed playing piano at local clubs and dance halls.  In 1950, Bob was recalled into the Navy to serve in the Korean War.  During his tour in Korea, Bob was recruited into the Armed Forces Security Agency (AFSA), the predecessor to the National Security Agency (NSA).  Bob completed studies at The George Washington University in Washington, DC and had a distinguished career in national security and intelligence until his retirement.  

Bob married Mary Eleanor Suit from Birdsville, MD in 1960.  With his wife, they raised their children in Kailua, HI and Birdsville, MD and, upon retirement, Bob and Mary moved to Palm Coast, FL.  Bob enjoyed music, carpentry and woodworking, gardening, reading and genealogy research.  He was an avid traveler and life-long fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers.  Bob was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and cherished time with his family and friends. 

In addition to his parents and brother, William “Bill” Austin Herkert, Bob was predeceased by his loving wife of over 60 years, Mary Eleanor Suit Herkert, and their eldest child, Gregory “Greg” William Herkert.  He is survived by children, Pamela Ann, Robert Edgar, Mary Frances “Francie” and her husband Keith; his grandchildren Sarah Christine and her partner Matt, Heather Lynn and her husband Jason, and Robert Lorenzo; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Our Lady of Sorrows Roman Catholic Church, 101 Owensville Rd, West River, MD on March 21, 2025 at 11:00 am.  Visitation will begin at 10:00 am. Interment to follow Mass at Our Lady of Sorrows’ Cemetery. 

Robert Lee Borenstein, 54, of Annapolis, MD, died at his home on Monday, December 30, 2024. Born in Baltimore City, MD on November 25, 1970, he attended Loyola College of Maryland and worked as an accountant. Robert is survived by his mother, Shelley Kartman Sarsfield of North East, MD and Lewes, DE; and two siblings, Jonathan Leiberman of Connecticut and Jennifer Howard of Westminster, MD. Service and interment are private. Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

All services for Mr. Lee will be private at this time. We will update this page when services have been confirmed.

A complete obituary will be available soon. Please take a moment and leave a condolence for the family by using the memories tab on this page.

Ray Scott Sullivan, 76, a lifetime resident of Harwood, MD, died on December 29, 2024 in Edgewater, MD.

Known to family and friends as "Pigpen," he was born March 28, 1948, in Fredericksburg, VA, to the late Margaret and Roy "Peanut" Sullivan. Following Ray's graduation from Annapolis High School in 1967, he served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He then worked as a self-employed truck driver for most of his life. Ray enjoyed watching Westerns, going to tractor pulls, talking with old friends (and making new ones), and spending time with his loved ones.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Linda Gore Sullivan; a son, Vincent Sullivan and his wife, Alicia of Owings, MD; two siblings, Preston Sullivan of Texas and Gale DiPaula of Florida; and three grandchildren, Dominic Navarro, and Liam and Elizabeth Sullivan.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ray's life on Monday, January 13, from 5 to 7 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD, where a funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 14 at 11 am. Interment will follow the service at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville at 1 pm. Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Children's Hospitals Boumi Transportation Fund (via mail: 5050 King Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21237 or online <a href="https://www.boumishriners.org/donate-1">here</a>).

Ver “Nellie” Cunningham, 89, a 36-year resident of Riva, MD and previously of NC passed away on December 27, 2024 after a 5-year battle with Alzheimer’s.

Born on April 7, 1935 in Graham, NC to the late William Troy Waldroup and Neta Ethel Stewart, Nellie enjoyed her careers in life as a salesperson for Hecht Company and as a homemaker for her family. Nellie enjoyed doing yard work and gardening, cooking, and taking care of her husband and family.

In addition to her parents, Nellie was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 36 years, Robert Edward Cunningham, and her siblings, Philip Waldroup, Mildred Smith, Cora Clark, and Alta Pitcox.

She is survived by her step-sons, John Cunningham of Edgewater, MD, Robert Cunningham of Bethany Beach, DE, and Chris Cunningham of Edgewater, MD, and her step-daughter, Theresa Lane of Bowie, MD.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 11:30 am at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery, 1122 Sunrise Beach Road, Crownsville, MD.

Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

Robert Gustav Baumann “Bob”, 98, of Sarasota, FL and Annapolis, MD died on Thursday, December 26 in Annapolis. Born on February 27, 1926, in Ritchie, MD to the late Francis Joseph and Juliana Kachele Baumann, Bob earned a BS degree in Commerce from the University of North Carolina and a Master’s degree in Accounting from George Washington University. He served in the US Navy from 1944 to 1947 and in the Navy Reserves from 1952 to 1954. Bob enjoyed a lengthy career as a CPA and financial executive with John I. Thompson Co., Health Education and Welfare (HEW), Potomac Research, Inc (PRI) and Electronic Data Systems (EDS). He was a parishioner of St. Mary’s Parish and St. John Neumann Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Bob was a beloved, kind, and generous husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. In his spare time, Bob enjoyed gardening, softball, bridge and bowling; but his greatest joy was having his family together. Bob is survived by his wife of 72 years, Patricia Baumann; his children, Mary Frazier (Mike) of Raleigh, NC,  Joseph Baumann (Diane) of Derwood, MD, Susan Houser (Bob) of Manassas, VA, Barbara Crosby (Ray) and Richard Baumann (Camille), both of Annapolis, MD, Robert Baumann (Tiffany) of Sonoma, CA and Patricia Vera (Ruben, deceased) of Virginia Beach, VA; his grandchildren, Christopher, Jennifer, Daniel, Terri, Eric, Patrick, Garrett, Ray, Michael, Robert “Mack”, Cara, Jack, Matthew, Richard, Juliana, Andrew, and Charlotte; and his great-grandchildren, Hazel, Heidi, Luke, Meadow and Titus. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Frank and Charles Baumann, Dorothy Tate and Julia Gildner.  

Friends are invited to celebrate Bob’s life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Friday, January 3 from 4 to 7 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 109 Duke of Gloucester St., Annapolis, MD on Saturday, January 4 at 10:30 am. Interment will be private. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Covenant House (via mail: 460 W 41st St, New York, NY 10036 or online <a href="https://www.covenanthouse.org/5x-impact?sourceid=2504107&origin=DHQEI2506DT6AL&utm_source=2412fy25yearendmatchgal&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=FY25FY25YearEndMatch&utm_content=CHI2412fy25yearendmatchga&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAg8S7BhATEiwAO2-R6mH29O4k_M5eEkcvQ3c7AA7Fi7VgKMAuXkuvcGxw12lEf304ITrFixoCn9QQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">here</a>).

Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

     UPDATE: Rosalie's Mass & Burial has been rescheduled for MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2025 at 10AM at St. Mary's Piscataway Catholic Church. INTERMENT St. Mary's Piscataway Catholic Church Cemetery.

Rosalie Ellen Merry, 86, of Accokeek, Maryland, departed this life Christmas morning, December 25, 2024.  She was a generous and giving Churchgoer, who repeatedly showed compassion and consideration for others.  A loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

     Born in Lowville, New York on March 15, 1938 to George Carlston and Minnie Pauline Prame, Rosalie, or “Rodie”, was one of ten children, having 2 brothers and 7 sisters, being survived by her sister, Judy Mae Adams.

     On April 4, 1959, Rosalie married the love of her life, Gary Sherman Merry.  From that day forward, the two were rarely apart.  They moved from upstate New York to Indian Head, Maryland where Gary worked as an Engineer and Rodie began her life as a homemaker.  She enjoyed various activities, including crocheting, reading, working on jigsaw and crossword puzzles, and bowling.  She began bowling while in New York with her sister, Bette, and then joined a mixed league with her husband, Gary, after they moved to Maryland.  They won a number of championship trophies together.  She enjoyed music and dancing, but Polka music always brought a smile to her face.  There was always time to “Roll out the Barrel”.

     Family meant everything to Rodie.  As a teenager, she left school early to get a job and help support her parents and siblings.  Later, in Maryland, she became the Matriarch of the Merry family, a Lioness, never afraid to protect and defend her cubs.  And although she did not complete her schooling, she was always there to help her kids with homework, book reports, science fair projects or Cub Scout displays.

     In addition to her sister Judy, Rosalie is survived by her husband of 65 years, Gary Merry, daughter Karen Orsinger (husband Robert), son James Merry (wife Wendy), daughter Lisa Simpson, and daughter Tracy Madden.  She had 7 grandchildren and is survived by each of them: fraternal twins, Tiffany and Scott Madden (wife Megan), Michael Simpson, Patrick Orsinger (wife Julie), David Orsinger, Brandon Simpson (wife Stephanie), and Kathleen (Katie) Roberts (husband Brent).  Nine great-grandchildren also survived Rosalie: Caleb, Ayden, Alayna, Sophia, Emilia, Eli, Connell, Ella, and Ethan.

     Friends and family are invited to celebrate Rosalie’s life on Sunday, January 5, 2025, from 2 to 4 PM at Kalas Funeral Home, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Piscataway, 13405 Piscataway Rd., Clinton MD 20735 at 10 AM on Monday, January 13, 2025. Interment St. Mary's Piscataway Church Cemetery.

Donations to the following organizations are welcome:

Hospice of the Chesapeake
American Cancer Society
Alzheimer’s Association















The family requests that you visit <a href="https://nikewilheims.com/">Nikewilheims.com</a> for funeral information and to leave a condolence for the family.

Robert "Bob" E. Lee, 89, of Edgewater, MD, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2024. He was born on January 30, 1935, to the late William "Jim" James Lee and Cora Madeline Sears.

Bob was a devoted husband to his wife, Louise, with whom he shared an incredible 70 years of marriage. They created countless memories together while traveling, camping, and exploring local yard sales, often spending cherished moments in their beautiful home in Edgewater. Bob deeply loved the water; fishing, crabbing, and boating were among his favorite pastimes. Many afternoons were spent on the pier with his beloved dog, Jake, by his side.

In his early adulthood, Bob proudly served in the National Guard and was a lifetime member of the Elks Lodge. He dedicated his career to Nationwide until his retirement, earning a reputation for his hard work, kindness, and respect from those who knew him.

Bob was preceded in death by his brother, John "Jack" W. Lee, and his son, Rocky Lee.

He is survived by his loving wife, Louise Lee; daughter, Brenda (Lee) Little; sister, Susie (Lee) Beaulieu (Artie); and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family who will miss him dearly.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bob's life on Friday, January 3, from 11 am until his funeral service begins at noon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the <a href="https://secure.cbf.org/site/Donation2?df_id=5242&5242.donation=form1&mfc_pref=T&s_src=MLW1225Z190000&s_subsrc=2412_FR_WB_APP_CYE_lb_02&_gl=1*1kdo72v*_gcl_au*MTQ1ODEyNzMwLjE3MzU1Njg4Nzc.*_ga*MTAxMzg1MDczNC4xNzM1NTY4ODc3*_ga_LZKG7DYJLG*MTczNTU3NjgyOC4yLjAuMTczNTU3NjgyOC4wLjAuMA..">Chesapeake Bay Foundation</a>, Attn: Membership Department, 6 Herndon Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21403, or <a href="https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/donate-now/">Hospice of the Chesapeake</a>, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122.

Please take a moment and leave a condolence for the family by using the memories tab on this page.

Marie L. Smith, 99, a resident of Annapolis and formerly of Riverdale, MD passed away peacefully on December 23, 2024. Born on February 23, 1925 in Washington, DC to the late Stephen A. Russell and Lucy M. Thompson, Marie worked for many years as a secretary and bookkeeper at the Catholic Student Center at the University of Maryland.  She belonged to the Ladies Sodality group, sang in the church choir and gave much of her time volunteering at church social events.  She loved to cook and entertain, and enjoyed travelling, especially her trips to the ocean. In her spare time, she enjoyed reading and never missed a daily crossword puzzle.

Marie was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Thomas J. Smith Sr. and her son, Thomas J. Smith Jr. (Kathleen Reddy-Smith) of Kingston, MA. She is survived by her three sons, Robert (Madelyn) Smith of Alpharetta, GA, Michael (Suzanne) Smith of Huntsville, AL and John (Nancy) Smith of Centreville, VA; her five daughters, Patricia Newgent (Ross Camardella) of Centreville, MD, Marie Mattingly of La Plata, MD, Jean (Patrick) Mahat of Vienna, VA, Catherine (Rob) Scanlan of Winchester, VA, and Theresa Harrell of Rockville, MD; 25 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. 

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Marie’s life on Thursday, January 9, 2025 from 10 to 11 am at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W Central Ave, Davidsonville, MD 21035, followed immediately by Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am. Interment 2 pm at Resurrection Cemetery, 8000 Woodyard Rd, Clinton, MD 20735. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Heart Homes Bay Ridge (via mail: 3023 Arundel on the Bay Rd A, Annapolis, MD 21403) or Hospice of the Chesapeake (via mail: 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122 or online <a href="https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/donate-now/">here</a>). 

Eli A. Busada, Jr., 85, a 46-year resident of Davidsonville, MD, and previously of Temple Hills, MD passed away on December 22, 2024. Born on November 7, 1939, in Washington, DC to the late Eli and Nellie Busada, he graduated from Anacostia High School in 1958. 

Eli established his building business, Busada Building Corporation, at age 20. He developed a reputation as an expert builder and developer of both commercial and residential properties. 
 
He previously served in the Air Force Reserves and was a member of the Anacostia Masonic Lodge.

He enjoyed woodworking, hunting, skiing, traveling, making fruit cakes, and, most of all, spending time with his family. He was a great friend and mentor to many and will be remembered for his fantastic sense of humor.

Eli is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Patricia Miller Busada; his son, Michael Eli (Cynthia) Busada of Lothian, MD; his daughter, Deborah Busada (Richard) Dawson of Annapolis, MD; his grandchildren, Zachary Eli, John, and Allison; his sister, Elizabeth Marinaro of Myrtle Beach, SC, and brother-in-law Frank Miller of Germantown, MD, as well as multiple nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother, Norman Busada (2022).

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Eli’s life on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD, from 12 pm until his memorial service begins at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to <a href="https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html">St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital</a>, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Lorraine M. Killion passed away on December 21, 2024, in Alexandria, Virginia, surrounded by friends and family.

Lorraine was predeceased by her beloved sons Jonathan and Richard and three
husbands. She is survived by her siblings Virginia and Arthur; numerous nieces,
nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews; stepchildren; step-grandchildren; step-
great-grandchildren; as well as many dear friends and former coworkers.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Lorraine built a remarkable career in commercial
insurance. She began her professional journey in New York City with The Royal
Globe. She took a break from work when the family traveled to Vietnam in
support of her husband’s assignment there for the Department of State. She and
her family relocated to Maryland after their evacuation from Vietnam, where she
worked for the Levy Insurance Agency. She later joined The Hartford Insurance
Company, retiring after more than 25 years as the Washington Regional Office
Commercial Property Manager. Her brokers fondly remember her
professionalism and the personal touch she brought to her work, which
contributed greatly to their success.

A devout Catholic and dedicated member of St. Ignatius Parish in Fort Washington, Maryland, Lorraine was deeply involved in her faith community. She provided leadership and support with the Rosary Group and Ladies of Charity and lovingly volunteered countless hours at Maryland International School, where she shared her love of reading with children from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Additionally, she was an active participant in the Military Wives Club atAndrews Air Force Base.

The family extends their gratitude to her caregivers at home and Sunrise at
Mount Vernon and the team at Capital Caring Hospice for their compassionate
support.

Lorraine lived life on her own terms—with love, determination, and an
adventurous spirit. A voracious reader, traveler, and gifted storyteller, she had a
unique ability to turn strangers into lifelong friends within moments of meeting
them.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on January 14, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Ignatius Church in Fort Washington, Maryland. Interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery joining her late husband Thomas Killion, Jr. USAF retired, when scheduled. 

In lieu of flowers Memorial contributions may be made in Lorraine’s name to the Stained-Glass Window Protection Project at St. Ignatius
Church.

Billie R. Ford, 85, of Deale, MD, passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 20, 2024.  Born in Washington, DC on Oct. 18, 1939, to the late Sylvia Weakly and Louis V. Ford.  He was raised in West Annapolis, MD. by his grandparents Amy (Phipps) and Karl Stephan.  Billie spent his childhood summers with his great aunt and uncle, Janie and Capt. Warren Hazard, in Galesville, MD. and at the home of his great grandparents Emma and Louis Phipps, on Broadwater Creek in Churchton, MD. where he learned to fish, crab and hunt.
He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Annapolis, MD. and was a member of West Annapolis Fire Department.  Billie was a welder, who would say he could weld anything, and he did weld everything from gas holding tanks, bridges, pipeline, and anything in between, as well as created beautiful ornamental ironwork.  He worked for Willson Welding, was owner of Ford’s Welding Service, a pipeline welder with Local 798, and retired as a welding inspector.
Billie married the former Mary E. Willson in 1960, with whom he had two children.
Billie loved to hunt, which led him to Coudersport, PA. where he hunted every deer season for decades.  It was in Coudersport that he met his second wife Janice M. (Crosby) Ford, to whom he was married for 40 years.  Billie and Jan later moved to Genesee, PA., loving life, for 28 years, on their mountain farm enjoying fishing, hunting, riding motorcycles, time with good friends and family, and living life their way.  Between the ages of 70-73, Billie along with Jan attained his dream of riding his Harley Davidson in all of the lower 48 states.  Billie, Jan and their dog Buck, later moved back to Maryland to be closer to family.
He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, raised to a Master Mason on May 22, 1976, the Scottish Rite, the Shriners, the American Legion and a life member of the NRA and Harley Owners Group.
Billie lived life to its fullest, on his own terms, with no regrets.  He was patriotic and loved the American Flag, which was always on display at his home.  He loved eating crabs, oysters, a good joke, wore cowboy boots all his adult life until he retired, bluegrass and country music, and anything requiring “cutting up and carrying on”.  You can find “B.R. Ford” written, painted, carved, welded or branded (yes, he made a BR Ford brand) on almost everything he owned.
Billie was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Janice, who passed away on July 4, 2024, his parents, grandparents, sister Kany Ford Riley, ex-wife Mary, oldest granddaughter and 1 great granddaughter.  He is survived by his children Sherrie Ford (Dennis) Wilkinson, William “Bill” (Mary) Ford, both of Harwood, MD., stepchildren Rose (Melvin) Guthrie of Dillwyn, VA., Lori Prince of Muncy, PA., Ricky (Karliena) Snay of Shadyside, MD., William Lawton of Greenville, SC., 21 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren, many, many friends whom he loved like family, and his beloved dog Buck.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests, you donate to a veteran’s organization of your choice or to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospitals.
Billie had made known his request to have no formal funeral services whenever he passed.  There will be a celebration of his life on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 2:00 PM, at the home of his daughter and son-in-law Dennis & Sherrie Wilkinson, 4514 L.R. Willson Rd., Harwood, MD. 20776.  Please come and celebrate Billie with crabs, oysters and cold beer.


Dolly Helen Iredell, 89, a three-year resident of Annapolis, MD, and previously of St. Michaels, MD, passed at her home on Friday, December 20, 2024.

Born on January 13, 1935, in Washington, DC, to the late Clarence Norris and Helen Norris (nee Chilhoupe), Dolly was a homemaker for most of her life. She loved dogs, cooking, and spending time with her family.

In addition to her parents, Dolly was preceded in death by her husband of over 30 years, Milton H. Iredell, and her two siblings, George and Joan.

She is survived by four daughters, Deborah (Vic) of South Pasadena, CA, Dolly (Bill) of Dunkirk, MD, Laura (Cyril) of Tampa, FL, and Joni (Mark) of Charleston, SC; a niece, Rebecca of Silver Spring, MD; and four grandchildren, Melissa (Dani) of New Zealand, Jennifer of Washington, DC, and Alenna and Arden of Tampa, Florida.

She also leaves many loved and cherished friends at her home at Brightview Senior Living in Annapolis, Maryland.

A service to honor Dolly's life will be held in May 2025. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you donate in memory of Dolly to the <a href="https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/donate-now/">Hospice of the Chesapeake</a>, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122, or your local animal shelter.

Please visit the Memories link on this page to leave a condolence.

Bernard Francis Hannan, 95, passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at his home in West River, MD. He was born on October 27, 1929 in Morristown, NJ to the late Walter Harrison and Margaret Ann Hagerty Hannan. His parents had moved to Morristown from New York City to open a road side restaurant which subsequently closed during the Depression. The family relocated to Washington, DC where Bernard attended and graduated from Anacostia High School. He went on to earn a BS degree in military science from the University of Maryland and a Masters Degree in aerodynamics. Airplanes were one of his many passions and Bernard served as a navigator in the U.S. Air Force for 5 years. He also served in the USAF Reserves for 15 years and in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary for 15 years. As a civilian, he worked with Capital Airlines, United Airlines, the Bolling Airplane Co., the Federal Aviation Administration and eventually retired from NASA. Bernard was an avid traveler and lived in many different places, Arlington Heights, IL, Seattle, WA, Miami, FL, Springfield, VA and lastly, West River, MD. He was a member of the American Legion, Delta Nu Alpha and Sigma Pi and in his spare time enjoyed boating, fishing, hunting and purchasing cars. He was also an avid fan of all of the University of Maryland Terps teams, the Washington Redskins and later, the Baltimore Ravens. Bernard was preceded in death by his parents, Walter H. and Margaret A. Hannan, his brother and sister-in-law William J. and Anne M. Hannan, and his nephew Walter F. Hannan. Bernard is survived by his niece, Margaret (Joseph) Gunde, his great nephew, Gary Gunde, his great niece Helen Carlson, and great-grandnieces Mia Carlson and Mya Adams. Mass of the Resurrection will be offered at 11 am on Saturday, February 22 at Holy Family Catholic Church Chapel, 826 W. Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD.

The Gunde family extends everlasting gratitude to Helen Carlson, Janet Belt, and Courtney Caudie for the exceptional care and loving companionship that Bernard received from each of them.

Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Carol J. Fleming (nee Brown), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother of Shady Side, MD, formerly from Chambersburg, PA, Huntingtown, and Harwood, MD, passed away suddenly on December 18, 2024. She was born on December 21, 1940, to James Robert and June D. (Davis) Brown of Hopwood, PA. She was a 1958 graduate of North Union High School in Uniontown, PA. She was employed for many years as a school bus driver for Thomas Motor Tours and Lane’s Bus Service. Later, she was employed as a Record Processor by the International Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America.  She enjoyed dancing, playing cards and games, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, James Robert and June D. (Davis) Brown, and husband of 62 years, William B. Fleming. She is survived by her daughter Janie Greenwell (Jimmy) of Shady Side, MD, son William B. Fleming Jr (Caycee) of Arvada, CO; grandchildren Mike (Kelly) Pumphrey, Amanda (Darren) Pumphrey-Conklin, Ian Fleming, and Ethan (Laurynn) Fleming; great-grandchildren Michaela, Isaiah, Lexie, Michael, Greye, Eustace, and Jacie; great-great-grandson Roman; Sister Pat Haragos; many cousins, nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Carol’s life on Saturday, December 28, from 11 am until her funeral service begins at 1 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. Interment St. James' Church Cemetery, Lothian, MD. Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Michael John Sobczak was suddenly and unexpectedly taken from us in his sleep on December 18, 2024.

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Michael moved his family to sunny southern California in 1991 and stayed there until moving to Maryland in 2022 to be closer to his children and to spoil his grandchildren.  

Michael is survived by his wife of 42 years, Trudi, his three children, Bradley Sobczak (Karina), Gregory Sobczak (Lauren), and Nora Aloise (Neil), his four precious grandchildren, Camille(4), Nicholas(4), Bennett(2) and Christopher (9 mos), and his sisters Mary Dutkiewicz and Margaret Sobczak.

Michael was granted a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and a Master of Science in Economics from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.  He spent over forty years in the mortgage and banking industry, with his final position as Senior Vice President and Director of Quality Control for PennyMac. His career began at Marine Bank in Milwaukee, then Mortgage Guarantee Insurance Corporation (for two stints), Johnson Controls, Great Western Bank, and Fannie Mae for 15 years. He was known and appreciated for his managerial leadership and employee development.  Many of his past employees remained in touch to ask for professional guidance years after leaving his direct report.

The true love of his life was his family. He took such pride in his children and got such joy from seeing them develop into the wonderful people they have become.  Many of his happiest times were watching the kids play sports and attending school graduations. He always felt the need to coach from the sidelines and was even lucky enough to coach Bradley’s and Gregory’s little league teams. He was always willing to help with scorekeeping and drag the fields. He also never missed a single Cal Poly softball game of Nora’s over four years.

He was a kind, smart and responsible man, who put his family first in everything he did. He got more joy out of giving than receiving. He was a self-made financial advisor for the family by educating and establishing a sound financial base to pass on to the kids. His hobby was being Mr. Fix-It for four families, including his sisters.  He could bring anything back to life and make it last. He loved being the family fantasy football league commissioner (although his bias to draft Green Bay Packers players did not do him any favors) and he found great joy in calculating all of the numbers for the family March Madness pool by hand. 

Thank you, Michael, Dad, and Papa for being a wonderful and loving husband, a caring and devoted father and grandfather, and for being by our sides every step of the way. You made our lives rich and full. We miss you dearly. We love you.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Michael in Milwaukee, WI, on January 28, 2025.  Visitation will start at 10:30 am, followed by an 11:00 am Mass at St. Alexander Church, 1568 W Holt Ave Milwaukee, WI.  Lunch will follow at Lake Park Bistro, 3133 Newberry Blvd., Milwaukee, WI. Guests are welcome to arrive any time after 1:00 pm.  Lunch will be served at 1:45 pm. There will be a private interment of ashes ceremony at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale CA followed by a Celebration of Life for Michael in Thousand Oaks, CA on February 1, 2025

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Thomas More High School, Milwaukee, WI, in his name.


Roger Arnold Graham, 87, a 30-year resident of Dunkirk, MD and previously of Silver Spring, MD, died peacefully in his sleep on December 17, 2024, at Quiet Manor Assisted Living. Born in Louisville, KY on October 18, 1937 to the late Herbert and Gladys Graham, he was a self-made entrepreneur, specializing as a glass blower and real estate developer. As a glass blower, he was instrumental in making important components for NASA’s space programs. Roger enjoyed fishing, cars and racing, and in his early years he loved singing and dancing with his wife Barbara. 
In addition to his parents, Roger was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Barbara Graham, and his siblings, David and Rosalyn. He is survived by his children, Jeff Graham of Grasonville, MD, Kelley Helmendach of Charlotte, NC, and Rusty Graham of Stevensville, MD; his grandchildren, Dustin, Steven, Emily, and Morgan Graham, and Heather, Connor, Kyle, and Cameron Helmendach; eight great-grandchildren; and his siblings, Herbert Graham of FL and Janice Hill of Waynesboro, PA. 
A celebration of Roger's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Roger’s memory may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital (via mail: 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105).

Obituaries

Vincent "Vince" Feliccia

Hubert "Sonny" Cave, Jr.

Annie Bates

Joyce Lee

Don Spear

Stanley Krawczewicz

Robert Herkert

Robert Borenstein

Richard Lee

Ray Sullivan

Ver "Nellie" Cunningham

Robert Baumann

Rosalie Merry

Nike Wilheims

Robert Lee

Marie Smith

Eli Busada, Jr.

Lorraine Killion

Billie Ford

Dolly Iredell

Bernard Hannan

Carol Fleming

Michael Sobczak

Roger Graham