Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Relatives and friends are invited to Alex's Life Celebration on Saturday, February 4, 2023 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Funeral services and interment will be private at a later date.

James “Jim” “Pops” Reed, 95, a 28-year resident of Martinsburg, WV and previously of Silver Spring, MD, passed away on January 23, 2023, in Annapolis, MD. Born on August 24, 1927, in Canton, OH to the late Frank and Lena Reed, Jim graduated from Jefferson Union High School in Richmond, OH. 

Jim worked in the printing industry for many years, going on to sell bookbinding equipment for McCain Manufacturing before retiring in 1994. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1950 to 1952, being stationed in Austria during the Korean War. 

He was a member of Hughes United Methodist Church in Wheaton, MD for many years, holding the position of head usher and serving on the Board of Trustees. Jim loved golf and still played 3 days a week, weather permitting, up until his passing. He enjoyed his time working with the Meals on Wheels, where he had delivered meals, founded and continually served as Chairman of their annual golf tournament committee, and served on the Board until his passing. 

Jim was a family man, in the truest sense of the words.  His love of family and friends was unequaled.  

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Madeleine Joy Reed in 2017, his brother, Carl Reed of Knoxville, TN, and his sister, Louise Punke of Tampa, FL. He is survived by his children, Michael (Laurie) Reed of Lynchburg, VA and Karen (John) Regalbuto of West River, MD; his grandchildren, Brian (Tara) Earp, Sarah (David) Grasso, and Brandon (Sharonaka) Earp, his four great-grandchildren, with a fifth on the way, and countless, cherished close friends. 

A Celebration of Life for Jim will be held at Brown’s Funeral Home, 327 W. King Street, Martinsburg, WV on Sunday, February 12 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to <a href="https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=NDBNHDLAH2C3G">Meals on Wheels of Berkeley County</a>, 116 E. King St, Martinsburg, WV 25401, or to <a href="https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?frequency_selected=2&sc_icid=mem-lp-donate-bttn-top">St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital</a>, 501 St. Judes Pl, Memphis, TN 38105. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

After a long and active life of Christian virtue, Sallie W. Hewitt of Annapolis heeded the call of her Lord to new life in a higher realm on January 23, 2023. Born to Katherine N. and Ralph D. Willis of Baltimore in 1929, Sallie was a graduate of the Friends School of Baltimore. She continued her education at Pembroke College in Brown University, Providence, RI for two years. Before she could finish her degree, she married the love of her life, Frederic M. (“Rip”) Hewitt, also of Baltimore. While living in Baltimore, and later in Naples, FL, Sallie and Rip were active members of several Episcopal churches and various community organizations. After retiring to Annapolis, they were most recently members of the Annapolis Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Sallie was well known as a gracious hostess to family, friends, and the charitable civic groups to which she belonged. While living in Baltimore, Mrs. Hewitt was a founding member of the Women’s Auxiliary of the Baltimore Engineering Society and was also active in The Inner Wheel of the Baltimore Rotary Society, when her husband served on the organizations’ boards. In later years, she was active in conservation groups and church soup kitchen projects in Naples and Annapolis. Sallie was an active member of the Col. John Streett Chapter of the NSDAR, the Maryland Chapter of the National Huguenot Society, the Anne Arundel County Republican Women, and the Bible Study Fellowship of Glen Burnie, MD until her passing.

As the matriarch of her family, Sallie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cousin. She was predeceased by her parents; her husband of a happy marriage of 62 years; her brother Ralph N. Willis and sister-in-law Sally G. Willis; and by her sister Katherine W. Monroe. She is survived by her brother-in-law, Douglas D Monroe II, of Irvington, VA; her three daughters: Carol H. Melvin of Greensboro, NC, Katherine H. Holmes (Hon. P.K. Holmes III) of Fort Smith, AR, and Betsy H. Schreitmueller of Annapolis, MD; four grandchildren and their spouses; four great-grandchildren, and numerous dear cousins.

A private graveside service was held on Friday, January 27, 2023 at Druid Ridge Cemetery, Baltimore, MD with the Rev. Mark Metz of Annapolis Evangelical Lutheran Church officiating. A memorial service for family, friends and fellow church members will be held on Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 11 AM at the Annapolis Evangelical Lutheran Church, 38 W. Central Avenue, Edgewater, MD 21037 with a reception to follow, at which time the family hopes to personally thank the many kind hearts and hands who assisted Sallie to live an active and independent life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to the Annapolis Evangelical Lutheran Church or to a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Relatives and friends are invited to Anthony's Life Celebration on Friday, February 3, 2023 from 10 a.m. until the start of the funeral at 11 a.m. at Corinthian Baptist Church, 6705 Good Luck Rd., Lanham, MD 20706  The interment will be private at a later date.

Ernest Robert “Ernie” Winters,  age 80 and a 50 year resident of Mayo, died at his residence on January 21, 2023.  Born in Washington, DC on September 16, 1942, he graduated from Suitland High School in 1960 and worked for JW Conway for 30 years.

Ernie loved spending time with his family and friends.   He also loved eating crabs, golfing, watching NASCAR (especially Dale Earnhardt), the Washington Redskins, riding his Harley with the American Legion Riders, and coaching baseball, basketball, and soccer for the Mayo Athletic Association.  He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion, Deale Elks, Shady Side Moose Lodge, and the Knights of Pythias.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Rosetta Lee Winters; his children, Kevin (Tammie) Winters of Harwood and Tammy (Gary) Zimmerman of Sunderland; his grandchildren, Christopher (Katie) Gascon of Edgewater, Kyle Winters of Harwood, Meagan Zimmerman of Lusby and Kelsey Winters of Harwood; his great-grandson, Jameson Gascon;  his siblings, William (Barbara) Winters, Audrey Brushe, Virginia Dehart, Delores Osborne, and Barbara (Clarence) Gillott; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.   Ernie was preceded in death by his parents, Robert, Mildred, and Hazel Winters, and a sister, Elizabeth Houchens.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 26 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, where a funeral service will be held on Friday, January 27 at 11 AM.  Interment will follow in Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Ernie’s memory may be made to Fisher House Foundation, 12300 Twinbrook Parkway, Suite 410, Rockville, MD 20852.


Richard Donald “Richie” Ward, Jr., age 67 and a lifelong resident of Mayo, passed away peacefully due to heart complications on January 21, 2023, at Anne Arundel Medical Center surrounded by family and friends.  He was born in Washington, DC on February 4, 1955, and was a carpenter for Taurus Enterprises for 44 years.  He loved spending time with his family and friends, taking motorcycle rides, and spending time at the beach. He was extremely competitive in all he did, especially playing softball and horseshoes.  His newest endeavor was splitting wood with anyone who would join him.

Richie is survived by his wife of 46 years, Janet Lee Ward; his children, Katelyn Lee Auld (husband Brad), Richard Donald Ward III (wife Laura), and Michael Dixon Ward all of Mayo; his siblings, David Ward of Mayo, Bobby Ward of Edgewater and Bea Ward of Annapolis; and his grandchildren, Brayden Auld, Richard Donald “RJ” Ward, IV, Maddox Ward, and Rilyn Auld.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Beatrice Ward, and two siblings, Billy Ward and Joy Ward.

Family and friends are invited to join in Richie’s life celebration on Friday, January 27 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Saturday, January 28 at 12 noon at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 515 Loch Haven Road, Edgewater.  Interment will be private

In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a site in which donations can be made to support Janet during these difficult times as she navigates life without Richie <a href="https://posthope.org/wards">CLICK HERE</a>

Janet Williams Cooper, 91, a 28-year resident of Annapolis and previously of Lewisdale, MD, passed away on Thursday, January 19, 2023 in Annapolis, MD.

Janet was born on July 10, 1931, in Philadelphia, PA, to the late Owen and Margaret Williams. She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Drexel University. She worked as an administrator at the University of MD and previously was an antique dealer. Janet was a member of numerous clubs including the Univ. of MD Campus Club and the New Annapolitans.

Her interests included playing bridge and duplicate bridge, Mahjong, antiques, art glass, travel, and entertaining family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Janet was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 67 years, Sherod M. Cooper, Jr., her son, Sherod Cooper III, and her siblings: Robert Williams and Betty Amundsen.

She is survived by her loving children Stephen(Una) of Bowie, David(Renee) of Greenbelt, Elizabeth (Kendall) of Annapolis, and her daughter-in-law, Debra Cooper of Crownsville. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Dana, Megan, Elyse, Kathleen, Benjamin, Patricia, Kristen, Morgan, Nikos, Sophie, and 7 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of Janet’s life will be held on January 29, from 2 pm until 5 pm at the Heritage Harbor Lodge, 959 River Strand Loop, Annapolis, MD 21401. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, 6 Herndon Ave., Annapolis, MD 21403. Online condolences may be made at KalasFuneralHomes.com.

Online tributes and condolences can be made by using the memories tab.

Ellen A. Menton (née Chickory), a resident of Annapolis and previously New Carrollton, MD, died on Thursday, January 17, 2023.  She was born on June 7, 1934, in Queens, NY, to the late Elizabeth Campbell and Joseph Chickory.  In 1956, Ellen’s friends fixed her up on a blind date with Marty Menton, a Navy man, who was stationed in Rhode Island. The relationship was a big deal from the start and they began seeing each other every couple of weeks when he came to town. They were married in 1958 and had a beautiful party at Fresh Meadows Inn in Flushing, NY. 

After raising her five children, Ellen went to work at the Washington Business Group on Health in 1978 and retired in 1993 as the Director of Administration. Ellen was an active member of the Heritage Harbour Community, serving as Chairman of Social Activities and President of the Women’s Golf Association. She also enjoyed bridge, gardening and reading. Ellen’s greatest passion though was spending time with her children and grandchildren, and supporting their academics and sports.

In addition to her parents, Ellen was preceded in death by her loving husband of 64 years, Martin D. Menton, Jr.; and two brothers, Thomas and Joseph Chickory. She is survived by her children, Marty Menton, III of Reno, NV, Elizabeth Brown of Lewes, DE, Maureen Bossler of Hagerstown, MD, Christopher J. Menton, Sr. of Blythewood, SC and Kathleen Menton of Annapolis; her grandchildren, Ellen Valdez, Christopher Menton, Jr., and Martin Menton, IV; two great-grandchildren; and a sister, Sr. Elizabeth Chickory, O.P.

Family and friends are invited to Ellen’s life celebration on Wednesday, January 18 from 5-7 PM at Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater.  Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Thursday, January 19 at 9 AM at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N. Bestgate Rd., Annapolis, with interment to follow in the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Hwy., Pasadena, MD 21122. Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Joseph M Baker III (Age 71)

Of Edgewater, MD, passed away January 17, 2023, just days after his 47th anniversary to his dear wife Elaine. Joe was the son of the late Joseph M Baker Jr and Bernice Maupin Baker of Annapolis, MD. Joe is also preceded in passing by his sister Rebecca (Becky) Baker and surviving sisters Cynthia Baker and Susan Kalergis and brother Robert Baker. He is survived by his beloved wife Elaine Baker of Edgewater. 

Joe led a wonderful life growing up in his early years in Edgewater, MD, with his grandparents in New Smyrna Beach, FL., and his teen years in Lindamoor on the Severn. It was in these places his love of the water began. Joe graduated from Annapolis High in 1969 in the years of the music of his favorite band The Beatles. He was popular among his classmates, broke a few sweet ladies’ hearts, and blessed his presence amongst his close buds of questionable scruples.

Joe began his real adventures at the age of 17 serving as a mate on the luxury liner SS Brasil sailing to the Scandinavian Countries and then the following summer into the Caribbean. This was the nurturing of his love for the open water.

 Joe originally planned on becoming an airline pilot attending Embry Riddle Aeronautical University but changed plans and received a Bachelor of Science Business degree from the University of Maryland. However, Joe continued to pursue his interest in flying by getting his private pilot license at age 22 and borrowing a good friend’s old plane, he got his taildragger certification out of a little grass strip in Deale, MD. 

Joe fell in love and married his sweetheart Elaine Brynarsky of Harwood in 1976. It was a team that led to greater things. After Joe finished working for three years at the American Society of Association Executives “the Baker Team” founded Impressions in 1980, a small printing company. With hard work and dedication, Impressions was consistently in the Top 100 Printers nationally and the Top 10 in sales per employee. They sold the company in 1997 and retired to a life on the water split between Edgewater and Juno Beach FL. 

Joe’s love of the water was evidenced by his first boat at 14, to ski boats, all the way to his beautiful big Hatteras. Whether running for sails or bonitos or bass or trout, Joe loved to fish. He fished in the mountain lakes and rivers of Arkansas to the ocean off Ocean City, MD, and Palm Beach FL. If he wasn’t around the water, he wanted to be out on the road on his Harley with friends. Adventures on his various Harleys took him all the way across this country several times, with trips often through the Rockies, from California to Washington State and up into Canada, into the Blue Ridge mountains, along the eastern seaboard all the way to the Florida Keys. He was most proud of taking care of his bike and especially finishing the Iron Butt challenge of 1000 miles in under 24 hours. More than the road dust he was coated with, more than the sea spray in his face, more than the big fish he caught was the gathering of lifelong friends. His greatest love was sharing the great experiences in life.

 In the end, his bike tag said it all, his final comment for his last big trip. AWOL.



                                                            Obituary

 

Joseph M Baker III (Age 71)

Of Edgewater, MD, passed away January 17, 2023, just days after his 47th anniversary to his dear wife Elaine. Joe was the son of the late Joseph M Baker Jr and Bernice Maupin Baker of Annapolis; MD. Joe is also preceded in passing by his sister Rebecca (Becky) Baker and surviving sisters Cynthia Baker and Susan Kalergis and brother Robert Baker. He is survived by his beloved wife Elaine Baker of Edgewater. 

Joe graduated from Annapolis High School in 1969 and went on to receive his Business degree from the University of MD. He founded a printing company, Impressions, Inc in 1980 and it was consistently in the Top 100 printers nationally and in the Top 10 in sales per employee. He sold the company in 1997 and retired with Elaine to a life on the water of boating and fishing or on the road on his Harley exploring this great country. In all things was Elaine a big part of his life and accomplishments. They were the Baker Team. He will be greatly missed by many friends spanning more than 60 years. In memory of Joe and the great work of Hospice people please feel free to donate to the Rebecca Fortney Inpatient Care Center at The Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Hwy., Pasadena, MD 21122. Online <a href="https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/donate-now/">Here</a>



Bernard A. Carpenter, Jr., ”Bernie”, passed away peacefully after a long illness on Tuesday, January 17 at Ginger Cove in Annapolis with his wife, Barbara, at his bedside.

Prior to retirement, Bernie was the Executive Director of University Physicians Inc. and Assistant Dean of Clinical Affairs at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. God blessed him with an exceptional life, a wonderful family, and many special friends. 

In addition to his devoted wife of 58 years, he is survived by his two loving sons, Brian Carpenter and his wife Laura, and Steve Carpenter and his wife Laura; seven grandchildren, Scott, Will, Brooks, Andrew, Jenna, Noelle, and Caroline Carpenter; and a sister, Sharon Lewis.

There will be a celebration of his life at a future date.

Memorial donations may be made in Bernie's name to the <a href="https://gingercove.com/about-us/charitable-giving/">Foundation at Ginger Cove</a> or to the <a href="https://www.lbda.org/donate/">Lewy Body Dementia Association</a>. Please take moment to leave a condolence by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Thomas “Tommy” Nicholas Vendemia, Sr., of Annapolis, MD, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his beloved wife and children on Monday, January 16, 2023. Born on July 22, 1942 in Washington D.C. to the late Joseph and Josephine Vendemia. Tommy graduated from Wilmington High School in Delaware and served in the US Army Reserve, receiving an honorable discharge in 1970. His many business ventures included being a liquor store owner, a real estate agent, and a builder and developer for more than 30 years. Tommy enjoyed playing golf, watching the Redskins, and cooking Sunday dinners for his family. Above all, his greatest joy was being a loving husband, a proud father and an adoring grandfather. Tommy is survived by his wife of 43 years, Mary Vendemia; their three children, Tommy (Kristin) Vendemia Jr., Joey Vendemia, and Ali (Brad) Arnold;  their grandchildren, Kyla, Luca, Dominic, Nicolas and Brooks and his siblings, Ida (Jim) Mabe,  Joseph (Cathy) Vendemia, Jr., Anna (the late Charles) Chester, and Chris (Michelle) Vendemia. Friends are invited to celebrate Tommy's life on Monday, January 23 from 4 to 7 pm at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W. Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD where Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Tuesday, January 24 at 11 am. Interment to follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Tommy’s memory to the Benedictine Foundation Adult Services, 14299 Benedictine Lane, Ridgely, MD 21660. Condolences may be made online at: KalasFuneralHomes.com.  

Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the Memories link on the left side of the page.

Those wishing to join Mass virtually may do so using <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064429102382">this link</a>.


Florence Ellen Sanford Balko

On January 16, 2023 Florence Ellen Sanford Balko peacefully passed away at the age of 94. Ellen was the youngest of ten children born to William Henry and Mary Alice (Johnson) Sanford on March 25, 1928. She was predeceased by her parents and all of her siblings; Benjamin Asbury Sanford (Ruth), Clara Frances Marmaduke (Richard), William Randolph Sanford (Cora), Walter Lewis Sanford, Mary Pauline (Sugar) Clark (William), Emma Josephine Reed (Charles), Annie Elizabeth England (Stuart), Kathryn May Beddoo (George), Maud Lee Sanford. Her devoted niece, Mary Ellen Rollins, who was more like a sister than a niece, survives her. She leaves behind several nieces and nephews and many grandnieces and grandnephews. She will be dearly missed by her friend of 66 years, her partner in crime, Clara Wampler.

Since childhood, Ellen was a member of Providence United Methodist Church in Montross, Virginia where she will rest in eternal peace alongside other family members.

Ellen retired from the Office of Education in 1987 and before then, she was employed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. She was at NASA when the first seven Astronauts were introduced.

Ellen, a life member of the Order of the Eastern Star, in the District of Columbia was a faithful member. Her life membership included serving as Worthy Matron, the leader of Federal Chapter No. 38, nine times and in more recent years the Treasurer of the Chapter. She was Worthy Grand Matron in 1982 with close friend Sherwood Dameron. Her memberships also included the Lyons Club, the Ladies Oriental Shrine and the Red Hat Society.

Funeral arrangements are as follow:
Viewing and visitation at Kalas Funeral Home, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, Md. Friday, January 27, 2023 4:00- 7:00 pm	Order of the Eastern Star Service

Viewing and visitation at Providence UMC, 5417 Stratford Hall Rd., Montross, Va. Saturday, January 28, 2023 11:00 - 1:00 pm Service by Pastor David Lagerveld at 1:00pm. Burial in church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Providence UMC Cemetery Fund; PO Box 913, Montross, Va. 22520














Khajadour “Koch” Baghdadlian, 80, a 35-year resident of Annapolis, Maryland, and previously of New York and Glendale, California, passed away on January 15, 2023. He was born on September 16, 1942 in Damascus, Syria to the late Ouhanes and Zarouhy Baghdadlian.

Following elementary school, Koch acquired an apprenticeship at the age of 12 doing diamond setting. He turned this into an esteemed career, working as a diamond setter and jeweler for his entire life, going on to own Cezanne Jewelers on Maryland Avenue in Annapolis for 33 years. 

Koch was a member of the Fleet Reserve. He enjoyed cooking and loved and lived life to its fullest.

In addition to his parents, Koch is preceded in death by his son Mayk. He is survived by his son, Ouhanes John Baghdadlian of Annapolis; brother, Hagop Baghdadlian of New Jersey; and former spouse, Eugenie Baghdadlian of Annapolis. 

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Koch’s life on Sunday, January 22, 2023 from 2 to 6 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd, Edgewater, MD 21037. A funeral service will be held on Monday, January 23, 2023 at 11 am at Ss. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 2747 Riva Rd, Annapolis, MD 21401. Interment to immediately follow at St. Demetrios Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122, or <a href="https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/donate-now/">online here</a>.


On January 14, 2023, Marlene Winegardner, a beloved wife, mom, grandma, and great-grandma passed away at the age of 84.

Marlene was born on February 9, 1938, in Grantsville, MD.  After graduating high school, Marlene obtained an associate degree in nursing and moved to Washington, DC.  It was in DC that she met her loving husband, Jack.  Jack and Marlene raised two sons, Tom and Chuck.

Marlene and her sons were the proud owners of multiple General Motors car dealerships. She was an avid golfer and was a longtime member of The Cannon Club in Lothian, MD. Marlene had an affection for the water and captained her own 42’ Formula for many years. She loved to travel and has been all over the world. She also loved to dance and was a member of the hand dance club.  She enjoyed playing blackjack, loved going to MGM, loved hosting the holidays and spending time with her family. 

Marlene was preceded in death by her husband, Jack.

She is survived by her sons, Chuck and his wife, Lisa and Tom and his wife, Sharon; her grandchildren, Jacki and her husband, Gary, Tommy and his wife, Jenna and Charlie, and her great-grandchildren, Knoxin, Scottlyn, and Carolina.

Marlene was a distinguished woman who loved her family endlessly.  She was classy, generous, kind, hardworking, and strong. ‘To know her is to love her’ and she will be missed dearly.

Friends are invited to celebrate Marlene's life at The Cannon Club, 699 Marlboro Rd., Lothian, MD on Saturday, January 21 from 2 pm until her funeral service begins at 3 pm. A reception will follow from 4 to 6 pm. Interment will be at Resurrection Cemetery on Monday, January 23 at 11 am.

Relatives and friends are invited to Shirley's Life Celebration on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 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 20745. Interment Maryland National Memorial Park, Laurel, MD. 

On the early morning of January 14, 2023, at Med Star Southern Maryland Hospital, God called his faithful servant, Jerome Willie Alston, home to rest. 

God heard you when you called and knew that you were tired so he sent his angels to close your eyes so you could go to your place of rest. So sleep on my dear, and take your rest. For we know you are in God’s hands who loved you best. 

Jerome Willie Alston, son of the late Willie and Mabel Alston, was born on October 20, 1946 in Washington, DC. Jerome believed in God and accepted him as his personal savior at an early age. Jerome was educated in DC public schools, graduating from the University of the District of Columbia. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1966, serving his country in the Vietnam war until his honorable discharge in 1968. 

After returning home from military service, Jerome worked for the General Services Administration for 30 years. He started as a security guard and became an elevator/escalator technician just one year later. He retired from public service in 1999. In 2000, Jerome continued his work as a elevator/escalator technician working for Metro until he retired in 2011 following a work injury.

Jerome had a heart of gold. He spent his life inspiring the young people in his neighborhood and anyone about opportunities to better their education and job growth. Even though he enjoyed many pleasures in life, spending time with his family was one of his greatest joys. He was a loving, generous, and caring man who was always there for his family. His grandchildren were the light of his heart.

He leaves to cherish his memory a loving and devoted wife, Mary Alston, five children (in order of age): Thomas Dennis (Naomi), Marcy Alston, Vejai Alston, Jason Alston (Capricia), and Sasha Alston; three grandchildren: Jayla Dennis, Thomas Dennis IV, and Miles Dennis; and his sister Harriett Moten. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

Jerome joins his mother Mable, his father Willie, and his brother Ray in the gates of heaven.


Cathy Voytek, 78, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 13, 2023, at her Chesapeake Beach home. Born May 13, 1944, in Baltimore, MD to the late James and Annetta Landon, she graduated with a bachelor of arts degree, from the Maryland Institute College of Art.  Cathy worked for the FBI, Anne Arundel Medical Center, and as an artist.  She enjoyed reading, painting, shopping, and spending time with her family. Cathy is survived by two daughters, Jennifer Foster, and her husband, Bobby of Chesapeake Beach, MD, and Stephanie Petrosino, and her husband, John of Tracy's Landing, MD; five grandchildren, Zachary and Joshua Foster, Braden and Reid Petrosino, and Courtney Foster and her husband, Lee Graves; and two great-grandchildren.

Friends are invited to celebrate Cathy's life on Monday, January 16 from 4 to 6 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD, where her funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 17 at 11 am.  Interment will follow at St. James Episcopal Church Cemetery, Lothian.  In lieu of flowers, 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, 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 to leave a message for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Relatives and friends are invited to Charle's Life Celebration on Saturday, January 21, 2023, from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745. 

Friends are invited to celebrate Grady’s life on Thursday, January 19th from 5 to 9 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD and on Friday, January 20th at Chesapeake Christian Fellowship Church, 377 West Central Avenue, Davidsonville, MD, from 1 to 2 pm until his funeral service begins at 2pm. Interment in Sunset Memorial Park in Smithfield, North Carolina.

Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Arvid Arthur Johnson (68), a 35-year resident of Deale, Maryland, passed away on Thursday, January 12, 2023, surrounded by his family after an 18-month battle with cancer.

Arvid, also known as “AJ,” was born on October 21, 1954, in Hamilton, Ontario to Arthur and Alice Johnson. During his childhood, he lived in Detroit, MI, Newark, NJ, Kentland, MD, and Hyattsville, MD. Arvid was a talented athlete and won many boxing championships in his youth and early twenties. He attended both Bladensburg High School and Northwestern High School (class of 1972) and graduated with his associate's degree in business from Prince Georges's Community College. Arvid worked in management for eleven years at Canteen Corporation. After starting a family, Arvid worked for United Parcel Service (UPS) and was a member of Teamsters Local 639. He received many accolades from UPS, including “The Circle of Honor,” before retiring with 30 years of service in 2015. Arvid was also a member of the Elks #2528 for over thirty years. Arvid was a talented artist who especially loved carving wooden birds. He loved being active, taking fitness classes, and crabbing. Arvid loved helping others, talking to people, and most importantly, spending time with his family. He loved everything about life and his positive impact on others will be greatly missed.

Arvid is survived by his wife of 42 years, Carol Johnson, his daughter, Christina Johnson, his son, Erik Johnson, and granddaughter, River Johnson. He is also survived by his mother, Alice Johnson, his brother, Dana Johnson, and sisters, Darleen Cournoyer and Karen Mitchell, along with his nieces and nephews Darlene Reese, Travis Johnson, Laura Tran, Sarah Perras, and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Arvid was predeceased by his father, Arthur Johnson, and brother, Aaron Johnson.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Arvid’s life on Friday, January 20, 2023, from 4:00-7:00, at the Kalas Funeral Home, 2973 Solomons Island Rd.  Edgewater, MD 21037 where a memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 21, 2023, at 1 pm. Interment will be private.

You can leave a condolence for the family by using the memories tab on the left side of this page.

Rev. Deborah Pauline Dalton Hairston was a true believer in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Deborah was born 5/11/55 in Columbus, OH.

Deborah served this country as a proud member of the United States Air Force as a base historian as well as a welder on the A-10 Warthog.

Deborah obtained her ministerial license and achieved her lifelong dream of sharing the gospel and love of Jesus Christ. She served her community as a ministry leader of a Christ centered recovery program, Celebrate Recovery at Mount Carmel Baptist Church. Along side her husband, she also started a Celebrate Recovery Ministery at Central Union Mission in Washington, DC. She traveled frequently to Baltimore, MD where she assisted in training other church members in starting a Celebrate Recovery Program for their congregation and was part of a Celebrate Recovery team that ministered at Charles County Detention Center in MD. She was also part of the forever family at St. Anthony's Celebrate Recovery Ministery at Catholic University.

In addition to her other contributions, Deborah started a weekly telephone ministry, "Sister Circle" a women’s Bible study where ladies can talk freely and confidentially.

Deborah ministered to her family both by scripture and by her life as an example. She believed that the foundation of Christ starts at home. She was a constant comfort and confidant to her family and friends, opening her home to anyone in need. Deborah would share her life story in an attempt to help them recover from life's pain. She would use herself as an example of how God can change a life if you believe in Him.

Deborah Pauline Dalton Hairston passed away on 1/12/2023 surrounded by her loving family. She was preceded in death by her parents Thurmon Ephfrom and Norma Jean Dalton and sister Sue Bowman. Her surviving sisters are Libby Compton, Becky Hilliard, and Tina Krebs. Deborah was the dedicated wife of Deriek L. Hairston and mother to five daughters; Pamela Quiñones-Chaudhary, Nadia Silver, Michelle Williams, Ameena Dalton, and Sarah Hairston. Deborah also has three loving step sons; Corey L Hairston, Isaac T Hairston and Derick L Hairston 2nd. She leaves behind 28 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

On January 10, 2023.  She is survived by her sister Donna Deters; nephew Scott Deters (Maria); great niece and nephew, Isabel and Luke Deters.  Preceded in death by her parents, Gerald and Patricia Day.  After many illnesses through the years, she is now at peace.  Retired from the Federal government after 34 years. She created and maintained a website to honor her father's military service on the USS SAVAGE DE 386.  There will be no services held.  Diane has requested her ashes become part of an artificial marine reef.  In lieu of sending flowers, please make a donation in Diane's name to Providence/Fort Washington United Methodist Church, 10610 Old Fort Rd., Fort Washington, MD 20744.  

Mary Hasselbeck Tebelman, age 84, of Myrtle Beach, SC, passed away on Tuesday, January 10, 2023.  She was born in Cincinnati, OH on October 2, 1938 to the late Carl and Anna Hasselbeck (nee Ploeger).

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold (Harry) Arthur Tebelman.

Mary is the mother of Kimberly (Kim) Tebelman Walls and Douglas Allen Tebelman.  She is the grandmother of Remington Arthur Walls and Anna Morgan Walls.  She also leaves behind her son-in-law, James (Jimmy) Robert Walls, Jr.

Mary is the sister of the late Joseph Hasselbeck, the late Vera Schweikert, the late Albert Hasselbeck, the late Thelma Bottoni, the late Anna Mae Melzer, the late John Hasselbeck, the late Rita Porter, late Carl Hasselbeck, Dolores Trainer, and Arlene Hatcher.  She leaves behind many friends and family, especially in Maryland, South Carolina, Ohio, and Georgia.

Visitation will be in the church at St. John the Evangelist, Clinton, MD, Monday 23 January 2022 beginning at 11:00 am.  Funeral Mass will begin at 12:00 noon.  A celebration of life will follow the mass at the Columbia Moose following the Funeral Mass.  A Memorial Mass and internment in the columbarium will be held at a later date at St. Michael’s, Garden City, SC.

In loving memory of Mary, contributions may be made to the St. John the Evangelist Food Pantry, Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach, Inova Alexandria Hospital Hospice, or the charity of your choice.

To share a memory of Mary or leave a special message for her family, please click on the Memories button under her name to the left of the screen.

Barbara Stewart Eskey, born April 2, 1928, was the daughter of the late Judge Grace M. Stewart and Charles H. Stewart, and the sister of the late Patricia deHoffmann. She departed this life peacefully on January 9, 2023, at the age of 94.

Barbara was born in Washington, DC, and graduated from Holy Cross Academy in 1947. She attended Marjorie Webster Junior College. She married the late Thomas Eskey in 1950, which ended in divorce in 1966. She was very active in several social groups at Holy Cross Church in Garrett Park, Maryland. When she moved to Tilden Woods in Rockville, MD in 1963, she became an active member of the Tilden Woods Garden Club. Her favorite vacations were spent with family at Bethany Beach, DE, and traveling with her sister. Throughout her professional career, Barbara worked for the personnel department and Merit Board of the Montgomery County Government. After her retirement, she moved to Leisure World in Silver Spring, MD, where she lived for 25 years. In 2022, she moved to Brightview Senior Living in Edgewater, MD.

She is survived by her four children: Diane (Michael) Murphy of Clemson, SC, Thomas (Catherine) Eskey of Baltimore, MD, Teresa (John) Rhoderick of Edgewater, MD, and Pamela (Eric) Krasner of Duluth, GA. In addition to her children, she is survived by seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to <a href="https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sc_icid=wtg-mm-btn-donate-now">St. Jude Children's Research Hospital</a>, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; or to <a href="https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/donate-now/">Hospice of the Chesapeake</a>, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122. Burial will be private, at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. 

Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.


Obituaries

Alejandro Smith

James Reed

Sallie Hewitt

Anthony Jones

Ernest Winters

Richard Ward, Jr.

Janet Cooper

Ellen Menton

Joseph Baker, III

Bernard Carpenter, Jr.

Thomas Vendemia, Sr.

Ellen Balko

Kajadour Baghdadlian

Marlene Winegardner

Shirley Downing

Jerome Alston

Cathy Voytek

Charles Ricketts

H. Grady Lee

Arvid "AJ" Johnson

Deborah Hairston

Diane Day

Mary Tebelman

Barbara Eskey