Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Genevieve Agnus Way “ Gene”, 90, formerly of Davidsonville, MD passed away quietly in her sleep on April 7,2022.  She was a 1948 graduate of Battin High School and received her BA from Douglass College in 1953.  She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Annapolis.  One of Gene’s favorite memories were trips to visit the sister church in Letohrad, the Czech Republic.  She made two such trips in 2004 and 2006 teaching high school students the English language.  Gene was also excited to visit her maternal mother’s birthplace, Prague. Gene was an active senior with a wide range of interests and a perpetual student.  Her keen interest in learning was an inspiration to many in our community and for her family.  For years Gene was an election judge in Anne Arundel County and worked as a substitute teacher at both Severna Park High School and at South River High School.  
In the 2007, Gene joined the ShowStoppers of South County a variety troupe made from members of the South County Senior Center in Davidsonville, MD.  The troupe performs shows all over the county in numerous settings including nursing homes, assisted living homes, senior centers, luncheons, county fairs and more.
Gene was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband, George H. Way, Jr.; her mother, Margaret Schatz and her stepfather, Samuel Schatz. She is survived by her son, Lawrence Way of Dundas, VA and his wife, Theresa Peterson-Way; her former daughter in law, Dyan Way and her only grandson, Zachary Way of Milton, DE.
Funeral service will be held at 10 am on Thursday, April 28 at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. The family would like to express their thanks and appreciation to the Anne Arundel Medical Center and staff for the amazing care they provided Gene.  In lieu of flowers, if desired, friends may make memorial contributions to the ShowStoppers of South County at:  Joanne DeWilde, SHOWSTOPPERS Director, 3913 Wayson Rd., Davidsonville, MD 21035.


Cecile B. Watson, affectionally known as “Cile” by friends and family, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2022. She was born on August 30, 1926, in White Plains, NY to the late Joseph and Belle Balkin.

Cile grew up in White Plains, NY. She was a graduate of White Plains High School and a graduate of Finch Junior College in NYC in 1946 where she earned an Associate degree. She then worked in NYC as a secretary. After moving to MD, she worked as a volunteer library assistant at Georgian Forest Elementary School from 1966 to 1967. From 1967 to 1986 she worked as a library assistant supervisor for Montgomery County Public Library. She volunteered for the local Literacy Council and Chrysalis House in Crownsville.

Cile met her late husband, Davis S. Watson while living in NY at a Christian Science youth organization and were married on June 26, 1948. They were married for 63 years. She is survived by their four children, Christine Jessee, Peter Watson, Jo Anne Miller, and Mark Watson; seven grandchildren, Nicholas, Ellen, Nathan, Jennifer, Megan, Roxanne, and Cara, and 13 great-grandchildren. 

Cile had many interests and hobbies. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, word games such as Scrabble and Boggle, reading, knitting, sewing, writing poetry, playing bridge, Rummikub and bowling. She sang in the Heritage Harbour choir and played the piano by ear. She loved music, especially show tunes, music of the 40s, and classical. She also enjoyed following the Baltimore Orioles.

Cile was a caring and generous person. She rarely complained and spoke well of others. She was always seeing the best in others and the positive in situations. She had a quiet stoic strength and loved her family.

She will be interred in the family plot in Sharon, MA.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date TBA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Cile’s memory can be made to a charity of one’s choice. 


Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

Rose Marie Marinari of Washington, DC passed away peacefully at home on April 6, 2022.  Rose was born on November 30, 1928 in Washington, DC and remained a lifelong resident.  She was the daughter of Rose and Joseph Randolph Smith.  She grew up in Anacostia and was one of 10 children.  Her siblings include Margaret Hitch, Frances Leukhardt, Patrick Smith, Jean Smith, Joseph Smith, Delores Darragh, Joan Wenzel, Anthony Smith and Richard Smith.  She attended St. Theresa Catholic Church and school.  She later attended Immaculate Conception Academy and graduated from Anacostia High School.

She was married to the late Dante Marinari who was also raised in Anacostia.  They were married for over 60 years until his death in 2006.  Rose is survived by her children Dante Jr (Gloria), Randie, Angie (David), Sue (Edward) and Margy; grandmother of Edward Jr. and Jefferson Reid, Dante III and Brian Marinari, Jennifer Robertson, Melissa and Jonathan Yost; great-grandmother of Henry, Edison, Raymund, Campbell, Jackson, Boone Reid, Abigail, Lilianna, Giovani Marinari, Magnus, Penelope Robertson, Parker Reid, Julian, Cora, Madelyn Yost.  In addition, she is also survived by her brother Richard, devoted caregiver Maricar Feliciano, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Rose, lovingly called "Mimi", devoted her life to her main interests which were her faith and her family.  Her favorite expression was "Give it to God".  She loved to attend daily Mass with her friend of over 50 years, Betty and the other ladies who she referred to as "The Chapel Chicks".  Rose seemed to be happiest while working in her award winning garden.  She also took great enjoyment and pride in decorating for Christmas and her annual Christmas Party.  She was a very generous person who loved to shop for gifts for her many family members and friends.  Rose was an avid reader and loved exploring antique shows and shops as well as watching the Washington Nationals televised games.  Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren will always remember her hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas and birthday celebrations.  In later years she made an extra effort to keep up with her family's lives and interests.  Although she loved being home, she also enjoyed repeated trips to Williamsburg, VA and Disney World in FL.

Although Rose loved flowers, she would prefer that in lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to St. Jude's Research Hospital or the Shriners Hospitals for Children. 

Relatives and friends may call at Holy Family Catholic Church, 2200 Callaway St., Hillcrest Heights, MD 20748 on Wednesday, April 13 from 11 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 12 noon. Interment Mount Olivet Cemetery at a later date.

On Tuesday, April 5, 2022; the beloved daughter of the late Angelo and Nunzia Monteforte; sister of Agata Zimini and the late Pietro Monteforte; sister-in-law of Mercedes Monteforte and the late Girolamo Zimini; aunt of Nancy Zimini-Varva, Rosemary Crawford, Nancy Ciccarello, Antonia VonDiezelski, Angie Hazen, Pietro A. Zimini and the late Girolamo Zimini, Jr. She is also survived by her great-nieces and nephews and many other relatives and friends. 

Relatives and friends are invited to Antonia's Life Celebration at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD on Monday, April 11 from 6 to 8 p.m.  A second viewing will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 595 Third St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001 on  Tuesday, April 12 from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30am. Directly following will be the Mass of Christian Burial from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30am. The Entombment will be held at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to <a href="https://www.stjude.org/promotion/impact-giving-pm.html?sc_dcm=58700006946881487&sc_cid=kwp&sc_cat=b&&msclkid=898da987546611683f05cbcae83a28df&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=M%20-%20Core%20Brand%20EX%20EL&utm_term=st%20jude%20children%27s%20research%20hospital&utm_content=PM_PR_Dig_Srch_PM_AO_US_Nat_MS_M-Ads_LF_-_-_-_SERP-Exct_Srch-B_-_-_-_Core_-_EL_-_-_Srch&gclid=CKiBz7zq__YCFYe1xQIduSsGmA&gclsrc=ds">St. Jude Children's Research Hospital</a> or <a href="https://secure.feedingamerica.org/site/Donation2?29790.donation=form1&df_id=29790&mfc_pref=T&s_src=Y22XP5B1Y&utm_source=paid&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=bing&utm_campaign=brand&s_subsrc=c&s_keyword=feeding%20america&&msclkid=4f9bdc37ef03151ccee1be7a53bc66a4&gclid=4f9bdc37ef03151ccee1be7a53bc66a4&gclsrc=3p.ds">Feeding America</a>

Donna Liff Walsh of Annapolis, MD passed away peacefully on April 5,  2022 after a long, courageous battle with breast cancer. Donna was born on April 1, 1957 in Washington, DC as the daughter of Donald and Barbara Liff. Growing up, she lived in Silver Spring, Maryland where she was a parishioner of St. Camillus Catholic Church. She later attended Regina High School (Class of 1975). She continued her education at the University of Maryland, College Park where she graduated from the College of Education. After graduating, she embarked on a career as an educator and then established her own consulting firm. 
Donna was an avid boater who chose to raise her family by the water with her husband James (Jim). Their relationship started in 1974 in high school and developed to become best friends and life long companions until her final days. 
Donna and Jim proudly raised two sons, James “Jay” Walsh (Sarah) and Bradley “Brad” Walsh (Stephanie) both of whom she was extremely proud of their professional accomplishments, philanthropy efforts and family lives. She is survived by her six grandchildren, Carter, Landon, Dean, JR, Blair and Henley whom she was absolutely enamored with and could frequently be found showing off pictures of their weekly accolades. Some of her happiest moments were spent with all of the family enjoying her favorite pastime of being on the water, something she took great pride in sharing with them. 
During the months from April to November, you would be best suited to find her at her second home on the water. She was always amongst her friends and family at Mears Point Marina and Piney Narrows Yacht Haven or even better, at one of her favorite anchorages on the back deck of “3/4 Time”. In the boating offseason, she was an ardent supporter of the Maryland Terrapins and in particular, their basketball team. She traveled to many games, home and away and even conference tournaments all across the east coast (GO TERPS!). March Madness was truly one of her favorite times of the year! 
Donna is also survived by her brother, Terry Liff (Gail) and sister, Rosemary Liff Kirwin (Scott), and is predeceased by her brother, Timothy Liff (Carla). She is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews and godchildren. 
Friends are invited to celebrate Donna’s life on Friday, April 8 from 4 to 7 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD where her memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 9 at 3:30 pm. 
Donna would strongly prefer that in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation on her behalf to the Wellness House of Annapolis, 2625 Mas Que Farm Rd., Annapolis, MD 21403 (annapoliswellnesshouse.org), where she enjoyed the many benefits of their services during her extended battle, even in her final days. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.



On Tuesday, April 5, 2022; the beloved wife of the late Gary Lynn Copeland; mother of Michael C. (Anna Lyn) Copeland; sister of Esther Walter; grandmother of Evan and Tucker Copeland. 

Relatives and friends are invited to Barb's Life Celebration on Tuesday, April 12, 2022 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Wednesday, April 13, 2022, at 10:00 AM at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Interment will be held at a later date.

John known to his friends as "Mitch" was born March 16, 1941 to parents Sadie and John Clark. He graduated from Oxon Hill High School class of 1960. He became a Sergeant in the US Marine Corps. Reserve. Mitch worked many years as a member of the Steam Fitting Local 602, receiving his 55th year membership certification in 2020.

When he was younger, he enjoyed traveling with ski club. Mitch enjoyed cars and anything mechanical. He worked for many local dirt race track teams over the years. He was very proud to be part of the pit crew for a few Winston Cup races. He still enjoyed going to the track and watching Nascar races on the weekends.

In retirement, Mitch enjoyed hanging out with the gang. He would often meet up with a group of guys at the local McDonalds. Mitch and his friends would frequent the American Legion Post #248, Camp Springs Elks and Clinton Moose.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Carolyn's life on Thursday, July 28th, 2022 at 10:00 AM, with a service to follow at 11:00 AM at Kalas Funeral Home, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, Maryland 20745. Internment will be held at 9:00 AM on Friday, July 29th, 2022 at Arlington National Cemetery, 1 Memorial Drive, Arlington, VA 22211.

James Harold “Jimmy’ Bryant, 86, a 52-year resident of Davidsonville, MD, passed away on April 4, 2022 at Anne Arundel Medical Center.  Born on May 27, 1935 in Asbury, WV to the late Minnie Roach Bryant Cox and Oscar Marlin Bryant, Jimmy graduated from Alderson High School in West Virginia.  He served in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959 and the National Guard from 1959 to 1963.  Jimmy worked as a project manager for Hargrove, Inc. in Lanham, MD.  He retired after 58 years of service during which time he forged hundreds of great friendships.  Always active, Jimmy enjoyed working in his yard and bowling and golfing with family and friends.  He coached his sons in Davidsonville baseball and watched his grandsons play for 18 years with pride.  

In addition to his parents, Jimmy was preceded in death by his stepfather, Homer E. Cox and all of his siblings, Merlin and Ivan Bryant, Wayne Bryant, Sr., Audrey Hiser and Arnetta Butler.  He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Erma Scruggs Bryant; two sons, Richard L. (Julie) Bryant of Davidsonville and Steven K. (Loretta) Bryant of Harwood, MD; one daughter, Cynthia D. (Tony) Berry of Deale, MD; five grandsons, Zachary, Cameron and Nicholas Bryant Rees of Deale, Dylan Bryant of Harwood and Charles Collison of Easton, MD; and two granddaughters, Brittany N. (Nick) Whiting of Ellicott City, MD and Sarah Bryant of Davidsonville.  Jimmy will also be mourned by many nieces, nephews, neighbors and former co-workers. He was loved by all.

Friends are invited to celebrate Jimmy’s life with his family on Tuesday, April 19 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD where Jimmy’s funeral service will be held on Wednesday, April 20 at 10 a.m.  Burial will follow at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville.  
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122 or online  <a href="https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/donate-now/"> hospicechesapeake.org</a>



Ronald Earle Pence, of Annapolis, MD, passed on Sunday, April 3, 2022 and joined his mother and father, Stella and Hank, and his older brother, Dick, in Heaven. Ronnie is survived by his children, Sandy (Craig) Shields of Frederick, MD, Jerry Smargiassi of Brookeville, MD and Teri (Michael) Kropp of Limerick, PA;  his older brother, Bob (Suzy) Pence; his sister in law, Dick’s widow, Diane Faulkner; his grandchildren, Devin, Nichole, Mazzi, Niko, Marley and numerous nephews and nieces. Ronnie grew up in Prince George’s County, MD and graduated in 1964 from High Point High School in Beltsville, MD. With the exception of the years from 1968 to 1971, when he served honorably in the United States Army, Ronnie’s entire business life was spent with the C & P Telephone Company. Throughout his life he played guitar in any number of local bands. He was an avid participant in the Annapolis sailing community as he traveled near and far on his sailboat.  He loved to share his summer stays, with friends and family, in Bethany Beach, DE. A private graveside service will be held at National Memorial Park in Falls Church, VA. A celebration of his life will take place in Annapolis, MD at a later date. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Stephen “Steve” Michael Berry passed away on April 3, 2022, at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital at the age of 69.

Steve was born in Washington, DC and grew up in Oxon Hill, Maryland.  He graduated from Oxon Hill High School in 1971.  As a young man, his love of cars landed him a job with Texaco before finding his permanent career calling with PEPCO.  He retired from PEPCO in 2011 with 33 years of service. 

Steve was a self-taught guitarist who co-founded the band, Four of a Kind.  The group became a local favorite and played together for many years at various venues.  Steve took after his dad with his expansive knowledge of how to build and repair most anything.  He deeply loved his family and friends.  He loved the outdoors, traveling and learning about history.  He also enjoyed guitar and amp repair and modifications, gardening and in recent years, cooking.  

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Richard J. Berry Jr., both maternal and paternal grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.  

He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Catherine “Lucy” Berry; mother, Marion J. Berry; brother, Richard (MaryAnn) Berry III.; brother, Christopher (Collene) Berry; and sister, Janice (Donald) Gray.  He is also survived by his aunt, Marion Fonseca, as well as cousins and multiple nieces, nephews; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

Casual attire such as blue jeans and sweatpants are appropriate attire at the celebration of Steve’s life that will take place from 4 pm – 6pm, on Saturday, April 30 at the Kalas Funeral Home, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks to consider donating to the American Stroke Association or to any charity of your choice.






Please check back for full obituary.

Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.


John Jackson Fleming III, longtime resident of Epping Forest in Annapolis, passed away peacefully at the age of 81 years old on 4/2/22.  “Big John”, as he was affectionately known, was born in Philadelphia, PA, to John Jackson Fleming, Jr. and Dorothy Moore Fleming, both deceased.  John graduated from Haverford High School, PA, where his varsity basketball team won the 1958 PA state championship. He then attended and graduated from Gettysburg College where he played basketball and baseball and met his future wife Janet Anderson.  
After college, John enlisted in the US Navy and graduated from Officer Candidate School in Newport, RI, and then served as an officer aboard the USS Randolph, an Essex class aircraft carrier, based out of Norfolk, VA. His ship was deployed to the Caribbean for the blockade during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Several of his fellow servicemen became lifelong friends.  John and his wife Jan, later settled in Annapolis in 1968, where he lived for the rest of his life. 
“Big John” loved the Chesapeake Bay region.  He was an avid outdoorsman and nature lover.  Fishing, hunting, crabbing, boating, camping, and simply observing wildlife were enduring passions.  He was a masterful cook, often preparing dishes that featured local seafood and wild game. His other hobbies included watching his sons play lacrosse, regardless of age level or venue. He also relished attending all of his grandsons' school events and athletic competitions.  Later in life, he rekindled his love of basketball, becoming an avid Terps fan.  He celebrated over 24 years of sobriety as a dedicated member and volunteer in Alcoholics Anonymous.  He also enjoyed the fellowship & services at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Annapolis. 
John ran his own manufacturer’s representative sales agency, Division III Associates, promoting and selling products that served the concrete and remedial waterproofing construction industries throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
He is survived by his loving family: Jan, his wife of 57 years,  his son Keith (Cathy Schorreck) and their sons Jackson and Duncan, his son Craig (Lauren) and their son, Easton, and his sister Janet (Wayne) Miller of Hobe Sound, FL, & San Ramon, CA.
Big John was an endearing presence, using his sense of humor and skill as a great story and joke teller to make new friends wherever he went.  He was a dedicated & caring husband, father and grandfather.  He will be sorely missed.
A memorial date has not yet been set.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center, 600 Discovery Ln, Grasonville, MD. 21638.  


Family and friends are invited to celebrate Allens' life at the Independent Baptist Church 9255 Piscataway Rd. Clinton, MD 20735 on Thursday, April 7th from 10 AM until his funeral service at 11 AM. Interment will follow in the Trinity Memorial Gardens Cemetery 3221 Mattawoman Beantown Rd, Waldorf, MD 20601.

Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.



On Friday, April 1, 2022, Dr. Amin Yazdanian passed away at the age of 83. Until his last day, Amin recited classic Persian poems, discussed international political history, and reminisced about his many travels and camping trips. He was truly a renaissance man.

Amin was born on July 13, 1938 in Esfahan, Iran. He spent his childhood with his parents and older brother, Masood, and younger sister, Jaleh. After high school, Amin attended the University of Tehran, and, upon graduation, he moved to Lebanon to earn a Master’s degree in Agriculture from the University of Beirut. Amin's drive for further academics and his close bond with his sister then led him to the United States where he earned a PhD in Environmental Engineering from the University of Arkansas in 1986. Amin then settled in Columbia, Maryland to be near Jaleh and her family, who lived in Annapolis. He worked for the Maryland Department of Environment for more than 25 years and was proud of his work. During his early years, he traveled abroad and built a close bond to Jaleh’s children, especially the youngest, Shabnam.

In 1991, on a trip to Iran, Amin met up with an old friend, Farzaneh, for tea. The energy and love must have been instant and strong because Amin hastily asked her to marry and move to the United States with him. In March of 1992, Farzaneh and her daughter, Yeganeh, joined Amin in Columbia, Maryland. Although not a father before, Amin fit right into his role. He became known as "Dad" or "Daddychee" and took Yeganeh under his wing as he made weekly trips to the library, camping across the United States, and visiting national parks and museums. It was his mission to make sure his little girl saw America through his eyes. His love for the environment was present in all their family trips - often biking trails and setting up campfires along the river in Shenandoah National Park. On the weekends when at home, Amin volunteered at the local public library, giving his daughter another excuse to be surrounded by books. 

Once diagnosed in 2010 with Parkinson’s Disease, Amin’s love for research became apparent in his pursuit of understanding the condition. He attended university seminars, read research studies and participated in support groups. Amin became an avid contributor to research and studies of Parkinson’s. It was during this time that he began to take exercise, of the brain and body, even more seriously. Amin devoted time to reading, exercising, solving puzzles and playing backgammon even more than before. It was perhaps these efforts, or maybe the grace of God or by chance, that allowed him to live well for over a decade with a condition that shows no mercy.

In his last year of life, Amin was the happiest when with his granddaughter, Mandana. It was playing with her that he would laugh and temporarily forget about any pains and physical restrictions.

His sense of humor, passion for poetry, knowledge in international affairs, and excitement for the outdoors is often not found in one person. He can’t be replaced and forever will be missed.

Amin is survived by his wife, Farzaneh, daughter, Yeganeh, son-in-law, Shelton, granddaughter, Mandana, nephew, Vahid, and nieces, Sheida, Shirin and Shabnam. 

A celebration of life will be held at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Saturday, April 9 from 11:30 am until his funeral service begins at 12:30 pm. Interment will immediately follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens, Davidsonville, MD. The family invites all guests to early dinner after the services conclude. Details will be provided the day of. 

Amin supported dozens of charities, both local and afar. Following his passion for the environment, he was a loyal member of the Sierra Club. In addition, Amin spent 25 years working in Baltimore and often supported local charities. The House of Ruth in Baltimore, supporting women experiencing homelessness and victims of domestic violence, became a frequent place of donation. To support either charity in honor and memory of Amin, please visit <a href="https://act.sierraclub.org/donate/rc_connect__campaign_designform?id=70131000001MKGUAA4&formcampaignid=70131000001hPCtAAM&ddi=N16DSEGO01&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=WG&gclid=Cj0KCQjwl7qSBhD-ARIsACvV1X3syBuc_ck_HQz2RT0_3WvVVDqB99hoiuECB5o9xCAgR2Mde2OFP5caAuOSEALw_wcB">https://www.sierraclub.org/</a> and <a href="https://hruth.org/donate/">https://hruth.org/</a>. Alternatively, Parkinson’s research is on-going and in need of support. Please visit <a href="https://www.michaeljfox.org/donate">https://www.michaeljfox.org/</a> for details on donations.

The family encourages you to leave a memory about Amin by visiting the link on this page.

Charles Robert "Robin" Merriwether, Jr. son of the late Charles Robert (Mary)Merriwether, Sr. and Bonnie E.(Bennie) Brown  born January 5,1945 in New Kensington, Pa.,  died peacefully at his home in Temple Hills, Md.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years ,Alma and two sons, Hollis and Christiaan(Yolanda). A devoted grandfather, "Poppi"  will be sorely missed by his two grandchildren, Hunter and Demi.  His loss is  deeply felt by  his  three brothers, William(Lois), Keith(Vicky) and Kenneth(Sharon) and two sisters, Autumn and Wanda.   Robin was highly respected and loved by his Aunts, Uncles, Nieces and Nephews, close friends and associates.

Upon graduation from High School, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving honorably at several Naval Stations including Guantanamo Bay ,Cuba during the Cuban crisis.  Upon completing his service, he relocated to Washington, D.C., married and attended the University of the District of Columbia, earning degrees in Architecture Science and Construction Management. His career as a Construction Manager and Project Supervisor for the private sector and federal and military agencies spanned over 30 years.

He loved music, especially gospel music, and prior to his illness, was an active participant and member of Men's Choir of the historic Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Va.

Funeral Services and interment are private.  The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his name to the Alfred Street Baptist Church Scholarship Foundation.

"Oh Lord Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you"
PSALMS 84:12

Gray Reynolds, 82, a 25 year resident of Davidsonville, MD, passed away on March 31, 2022 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born on November 6, 1939 in Burley, Idaho to the late Gray and Margaret Reynolds, Gray graduated from Utah State University with a degree in Forestry, and went on to receive a Master’s degree in Public Land Administration from Michigan State University. He worked for 37 years at the Department of Agriculture, and retired as Deputy Chief of the U.S. Forest Service in 1997. Gray worked as the General Manager of the Snowbasin Ski Resort, where he aided in the development of the ski area for the 2002 Winter Olympic Men and Women’s downhill events. Gray was a proud member of the Forest Service Retirees, and served as the past President of the National Museum of Forest Service History. He was a parishioner at St. John Neuman Catholic Church. Gray was an avid skier and fan of the Navy Football team.

Gray is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Glenda Reynolds; his beloved daughters, Marie (Charles) Bailey of Boiling Springs, PA, Margaret Ann (Jay) Erwin of Nesbit, MS, Cathleen (Cush) Newman of Davidsonville, MD, and Susie (Fergus) Hughes of Davidsonville, MD; his siblings, George of Redmond, WA and Mary Morrissey of Olympia, WA; his grandsons Connor and Austin Bailey, Gray and Andrew Erwin, Clay, Mark, and Thomas Newman, and Liam Hughes; and his granddaughters Sophia, Cecilia, and Mia Bailey, Catherine Erwin Kendricks, Siri Erwin, Sydney Newman, and Grace Hughes. 

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Gray's life at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church Chapel, 16501 Annapolis Road, Bowie MD on Monday, April 4 from 11am until Mass of Christian Burial is offered at 12 noon. Additional services will be planned in Lutcher, LA with Rose Lynn Funeral Home, 1870 Cabanose Ave., Lutcher, LA 70071. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the National Museum of Forest Service History, P.O. Box 2772 Missoula, MT 59806. 

Condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page. 


Relatives and friends are invited to Helen's Life Celebration on Thursday, April 7, 2022 from 4:30-8pm at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745. A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 8, 2022 at 11:30am at St. Theodore Greek Orthodox Church, 7101 Cipriano Rd., Lanham, MD 20706. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Clinton MD. Please leave memories and condolences by accessing the "Memories" page. 

On Thursday, March 31, 2022; the beloved husband of the late Deborah Ann Riley; father of Natlie L. Riley (Megan Zimmerman), Aaron Z. Riley and the late Jordan Edward Riley; brother of Edward Riley; grandfather of Aiden Riley and Eben Zimmerman. He is also survived by many other relatives and friends.  

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Saturday, April 23 from 11 a.m. until the start of the Memorial Service at 12 noon at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Entombment will be held with military honors at Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, MD at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to <a href="https://www.komen.org/how-to-help/attend-events/race-for-the-cure/">Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure</a>

A memorial service celebrating the life of Donna Schreiner Walton will be held at Grace Bible Church in Lanham, MD on April 23rd at 2:00 pm with family visitation immediately following the service. The service will also be live-streamed at: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-kOeoacCik">https://youtu.be/Y-kOeoacCik</a>

Donna Walton, born April 13, 1952 in Port Jefferson, New York, passed away on Wednesday morning, March 30 at her home with her family present. She was 69 years old. Donna was a graduate of North Western High School of Hyattsville, Maryland in 1970 and of the University of Maryland in 1974 where she earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in physical education and participated in the prestigious gymnastics troup, Gymkana. She went on to achieve a successful career coaching gymnastics throughout the DC area, including coaching the Good Luck Aerials in Prince George’s County, a recreational gymnastic group with the mission to inspire young girls to achieve their goals in gymnastics and beyond. She also taught gymnastics at the Riverdale YMCA where she met Leigh Walton and Rochelle, his daughter.

Last December, Donna celebrated 40 years of marriage to the love of her life, Leigh Walton. During those forty years, she was a loving wife and caring mother to their three children, Rochelle, Eric and Stephen.  Her faith in God was of utmost importance to her. Donna was actively involved in the ministry of her church, Grace Bible Church of Lanham, Maryland where she showed her love for God and her church family by teaching in the Children’s church ministry, was actively involved in the ladies’ Sunday school class, and maintained the flower beds at the church. She loved spending time with her family, ballroom dancing, gardening, camping, bicycling, sewing, shopping at thrift stores, and enjoying her pets. Donna's presence, energy, and love will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Donna was preceded in death by her father, William “Bill” Schreiner. She is survived by her husband, Leigh Walton; her mother, Esther Schreiner; her sister, Jennifer Dent; her three children, Eric Walton (and wife DeLaura), Stephen Walton, and Rochelle "Rocky" Knick (and husband Mike); and her three grandchildren, Austin, Tyler, and Maddison.

Officiating the memorial service will be Conrad Smith at Grace Bible Church, 9920 Lanham Severn Road, Lanham, MD, 20706. In lieu of flowers, the family requests with gratitude, donations be made in her name to the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America, <a href="https://donate.myasthenia.org/site/Donation2?df_id=1480&mfc_pref=T&1480.donation=form1">https://myasthenia.org/Make-an-Impact/Donate</a>

Richard (Rick) Gerard Jepson was born 16 March 1954 in Fort Ord, CA, and died 30 March 2022 at the Hospice of the Chesapeake in Pasadena, MD, from complications of Guillain-Barré Syndrome.  He was the third of five children born to the late Capt. John Arthur (USN retired) and the late Elizabeth Jayne (nee Riley) Jepson.  He is survived by his brothers: John R., Michael A., and Robert J. Jepson and their spouses: Josephine Magurn, Mary Collins, and Patricia (nee Burleson), respectively.  Rick’s lone sister, Kathleen C. Jepson, the oldest of the five children, died in 2020.  

As a USN dependent, Rick lived in California, Guam, Maryland, and England.  He completed his education in 1974, graduating from London Central High in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire.  Early in life, Rick spent time on the Chesapeake Bay at his maternal grandmother’s house in Bay Ridge.  He learned to sail Penguin class dinghies and eventually bought a 16’ Hobie catamaran, in which he raced competitively.  Rick owned and trained several Labrador retrievers, competing in hunt tests with his favorite yellow Lab, Emma.  Rick worked at the Annapolis Mall for Hecht Co. and Macy’s for 30 years as a shipping and receiving clerk.  He attended both St. Mary’s and St. John Neumann Catholic churches in Annapolis.  Rick was instrumental in the care of his maternal grandmother, his mother, and his sister in their later lives, allowing them to live in their homes long after they might have otherwise because of various health conditions. He was a devoted grandson, son, and brother, ever willing to help family, neighbors, friends and often, perfect strangers.  

The family invites you to remember and celebrate Rick on Tuesday, June 21, 2022, from 1-4 PM, at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Philip Merrill Environmental Center, 6 Herndon Ave., Annapolis 21403.  Please contact Rob Jepson at robjepson3358@gmail.com if you plan to attend. 

Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on this page.

You never know what life has to offer or when death will beckon you home. Lula M. Brown has been defying death for nearly 30 years. She went into the hospital on numerous occasions with the family called around her only for her to amaze the doctors, family and friends and come out and be stronger than ever.
 
On March 30, 2022, Lula Mary Brown left this earth to be with her Husband. She was born on December 30, 1927, in Bobtown, PA to John and Sadie Nassif, Lebanese immigrants, as the middle child of nine children. She was baptized in the Syrian Orthodox Church, now known as the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church in Altoona Pennsylvania. 

She graduated from Altoona High School in 1945 and graduated from the Altoona School of Commerce in January 1947. She worked as a doctor’s assistant in Coalport, Pennsylvania where she ran the doctor’s office. While in Altoona, she, managed the office at her father’s beer distributorship, Reliable Beer Company.

On June 11, 1950, Lu married the love of her life, Abraham S. Brown (“Brownie”), a son of middle eastern immigrants, even though they had only met a year earlier. It was fitting that they met at an Arabic picnic sponsored by the Church. Together they forged a life and traditions based on family, God, country, and music. Lu was a ‘play by ear’ Piano player who would play the piano while her husband, Brownie sang. They were an inseparable duet bringing joy to all those around her. They lived in Homestead, Pa Coalport, Pa, Altoona Pa and then finally moved to Annapolis Maryland in 1962 when they bought their first and only home. 

  Their four children grew up in Annapolis, all graduating from Annapolis Senior High School. Lu was the business manager at Annapolis Senior High School and one of her many responsibilities was to manage and oversee the construction and opening of the new Annapolis Senior High School on Riva Road. 
 
Lu was known as ‘Mimi’ to the world after the birth of her grandchildren, who became her life and her purpose. And anyone who knew her knew that her 15 grandchildren and two great grandchildren were her life: and maybe her many great granddogs too. Lu was a cook for the ages who could make anything and bake anything and was a master at Middle Eastern cuisine.  There was always food in the Brown household, and she could cook up a meal for 2 to 20 in no time at all. None of her guests wanted for anything, including the Midshipmen they sponsored from 1964 until after the turn of the millennium. Mother’s Day at her home was like a florist shop with flowers from all those who considered her their second mom.
 
Lu grew up in the church where she also raised her family in the tradition of the Eastern Orthodox faith. She was an active member of the church and a faithful choir member every Sunday. In August 1962, when they moved to Annapolis, they took the trek each Sunday to St. George’s Syrian Orthodox Church on 16th Street and Webster Avenue in Washington DC. In 1979, she along with her husband Brownie, became founding members of Ss Peter and Paul Antiochian Orthodox Church on River Road in Potomac Maryland. Her family and church were the center of her life.
 
Lu’s husband, Brownie, passed away on March 28, 2014, after 64 years of marriage. They were as one and nothing could separate the two. Her husband cared for her for years, never leaving her side. Together they never missed a concert, an event, or a sports game for any of their 4 children or their grandchildren. They sat together in the first row for every musical and concert for all the grandchildren in all their schools until her husband’s passing in 2014, and then in 2017 she stopped making some of those events when she could not travel as all. Lu was diagnosed with macular degeneration in early 2000, and later lost all of her sight.  After her husband died, she stayed living in her family home in Annapolis, until she moved in with her sons in 2017. She had great care from her 24/7 caregivers who became part of her family. 
 
Lu and Brownie (or Mimi and Jidu their grandparent names) built a life for their family in Annapolis. She participated in the community, served on a multitude of committees and loved being an election judge back in the 70’s and 80’s. But more than anything she loved people. You always knew when she was present.

She is survived by her four children: Samuel J. Brown (Donna) of Annapolis, Deborah A. Brown of New York, Stephen D. Brown (Jennifer) of Annapolis, and George E. Brown (Chris) of Annapolis; 15 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; two younger brothers, George E. Nassif of Annapolis and Robert (Arlene) Nassif of Altoona Pa; Sister-in-law Vera Brown of Jacksonville, FL; and a multitude of cousins, nieces, nephews, godchildren, other family members and friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Abraham “Brownie” Brown, her parents, John and Sadie Nassif, her siblings and their spouses, Ernie (Sadie) Nassif, Albert Nassif, Helen (Albert) Haje, Ernestine (Sam) McLoota, Mary (Terry) Smith, and John Nassif, and her brother-in-law Adieb “Eddie” Brown

Friends are invited to celebrate Lula's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Saturday, April 2 from 3 to 7 pm and at Ss. Peter and Paul Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church, 10620 River Rd., Potomac, MD on Sunday, April 3 from 3 pm until her funeral service begins at 7 pm.  Interment will be at Hillcrest Memorial Cemetery, 1911 Forest Dr., Annapolis, MD on Monday, April 4 at 11 am. A mercy meal will be offered by the family at the church before the funeral service on Sunday at 6 PM and at the home of Samuel J. Brown on Monday, April 4 immediately following the interment. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Ss. Peter and Paul Antiochian Orthodox Church, Abraham S. Brown Memorial Fund.

Please take a moment to leave a message for the family by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Delores Marie Knowles, affectionately known as “Dee” by many families and friends, departed this life on Wednesday, March 30, 2022. She was born on March 5, 1947, in Washington, DC to the late Wilbert T. Johnson and the late Ella R. Johnson.

Delores grew up in Washington, DC and attended Eastern High School. After graduating, she had a successful career at the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, where she worked for 37 years.

Delores was known for her beautiful smile, contagious laughter, compassion, and kindness. She loved to travel, have fun with family and friends and spend time by the water.

Delores met the love of her life, her late husband, Rupert Knowles, while working at the Federal Trade Commission. They married on June 14, 2001, and lived a very happy, loving and adventurous life until his passing on January 18, 2008. Even though their union of marriage was short, their love for one another was everlasting. Delores has now rejoined her love, Rup, along with her mother and father and other relatives. She will surely be missed.

Delores leaves to mourn her daughter, Donielle M. Caldwell; two grandchildren, Wynter Laperch and Sommer Laperch; two brothers, Charles E. Johnson, Melvin T. Johnson; four bonus sisters, Dinallca (Denny) Wilson, Carol MacDonlads, Lennette Weaver, Playdese Weaver; one bonus brother Ricardo Weaver Sir, (Cordell) and a host of other relatives and friends.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Delores' life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater on Tuesday, April 12 from 11am until her funeral service at 12 noon. Interment will follow in the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville.

Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

Lorraine B. Zaledonis, 86, a 60-year resident of Guilford, CT and previously of Wilkes-Barre, PA, passed away on March 30, 2022 in Annapolis, MD. Born on June 5, 1935 to the late George and Martha Bellas, Lorraine graduated from G.A.R. Memorial High School in Wilkes-Barre. In addition to devoting herself to her family, Lorraine worked as a bookkeeper. She was a member of St. George Catholic Church in Guilford, CT and the Knights of Columbus Council 3928 Ladies’ Auxiliary. She enjoyed boating, dining out at restaurants and, most of all, spending time with family, especially her grandson. 
Lorraine was preceded in death by her loving husband of 58 years, Frank Zaledonis. She is survived by two daughters, Kathleen Archer of Guilford, CT and Alexa (& Jerry) Cunningham of Tenants Harbor, ME; her brother, George Bellas of Plains, PA and sister, Barbara Krashnak of Mountain Top, PA; and her grandson, Bryan Archer.
The family is planning a private memorial service in the Fall of 2022. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the <a href="https://alzfdn.org/support-us/donate/?gclid=CjwKCAjwy_aUBhACEiwA2IHHQBx64euLhiKbhDpAstgrcz4T2Rs7r_Y0FggSBauRhjxxwC02p2JWThoCiZAQAvD_BwE">Alzheimer’s Association</a>.
Online condolences may be offered using the Memories link on the left side of this page.

Obituaries

Genevieve Way

Cecile Watson

Rose Marinari

Antonia Monteforte

Donna Liff Walsh

Barbara Copeland

John Clark

Carolyn Stackhouse

James Bryant

Ronald Pence

Stephen Berry

Gertrude Fowler

John Fleming, III

Allen Russell

Amin Yazdanian

Charles Merriwether

Gray Reynolds

Helen Sineriz

Larry Riley

Donna Walton

Richard Jepson

Lula Brown

Delores Knowles

Lorraine Zaledonis