Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Funeral arrangements will be posted as soon as they become available. Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Shirley Ann McCarthy, 80, a four-year resident of Shady Side, MD, and previously of Blanche, NC, for two years and Mayo, MD, for 45 years, died in Annapolis, MD, on March 11, 2025. Born in Washington, DC on December 31, 1944 to the late Frederick A. Poore and Marvell A. Tapscott, she was a longtime member of Davidsonville United Methodist Church. Annie enjoyed crafting, gardening, shopping, decorating, and spending time with family and friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, John P. McCarthy, and two sons, Keith and Kevin McCarthy. Annie is survived by three siblings, Bruce Poore of Blanch, NC, Tammy Poore of Edgewater, MD, and Gary Poore of Edgewater, MD; a grandson, Anthony McCarthy of Thurmont, MD; and one great-grandchild. Friends are invited to celebrate Annie’s life on Friday, March 21, from 10 am until her funeral service begins at 11 am at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. Interment
Lakemont Memorial Gardens. Online condolences and tributes may be made using the memories link on
this page.









Rita Marie Kapurch, 103, a 39-year resident of Annapolis and previously of Worcester, MA, passed away peacefully in her sleep on March 10th, 2025, at Brightview Senior Living. Born in Worcester to the late Peter and Petronella (Karpovicius) Alavosius, Rita was a devout Catholic, wife, mother, and grandmother, whose commitment to the Catholic church was seen through her acts of service for her family and friends.

Rita, a retired hairdressing instructor and banker, had a lifelong commitment to service. Alongside her husband, they were sponsors for midshipmen at the Naval Academy, especially the international Lithuanian midshipmen. For 31 years, Rita volunteered at the Anne Arundel Medical Center Auxiliary, where she became a beloved fixture, particularly at the gift shop. Her infectious smile, kindness, and willingness to lend a helping hand made her a cherished presence for patients, visitors, and staff alike. Through her volunteer work, she touched countless lives and left a lasting impact on the AAMC community.

Known for her style, strength, fierceness, and sharp wit, she was a woman who earned respect and admiration from all who knew her. She embraced life with an open heart, always ready to offer her wisdom, encouragement, and laughter. Whether it was sharing a heartfelt story, a clever quip, or fashion advice, she had a way of making everyone feel special. In addition to her volunteer work, Rita was an avid collector, with an impressive collection of dresses, hats, jewelry, purses, and over 300 spoons from around the world. This unique passion earned her recognition in the Annapolis Gazette, where her spoon collection was celebrated as a testament to her adventurous spirit and love for culture and history. 

Rita was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Robert “Joe” Kapurch; her brothers, Joseph Alavosius with wife Katherine, John Alavosius with wife Elizabeth, and Bernard Alavosius with wife Estelle; and her sisters, Beatrice Molloy with husband Bart and Julia Cronin with husband Jeremiah.

She is survived by her sons, Captain Thomas (Julie) Kapurch, USN and Stephen (Kim) Kapurch; her daughter, Reverend Dr. Linda Kapurch; her grandson, Dr. Joseph Kapurch II and his wife Caitlin with two great-grandchildren, Heidi and Hans; four granddaughters, Dr. Katie Kapurch, Christine Lemaster and her husband Nicholas with great-granddaughter Juliette, Stephanie Giambone and her husband Peter with great-granddaughter Amelia, and Jennifer Coletta and her husband Joseph; many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews. 

The family wishes to thank most gratefully Comfort Care of the Chesapeake, and especially Brightview Senior Living, Edgewater, MD.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Rita's life on Sunday, March 16, from 4 to 6 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD 21037. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Monday, March 17 at 10:30 am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N. Bestgate, Rd. Annapolis, MD  A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 1:30 pm at National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Auxiliary of AAMC, 2001 Medical Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401, Attn Auxiliary.  If you wish, you may leave a condolence for the family by using the memories tab on this page.

Guido “Guy” Alfred Baldecchi peacefully passed away on March 10, 2025. He was born in the heart of the depression on April 8, 1933 to the late Helen and Dan Baldecchi. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Katherine Stuart “Stu” Bowyer Baldecchi, whom he met on a blind date on a fateful New Year’s Eve. The two married in 1959. He is survived by their four children, Pam (Hearon) Dickson, Danny (Merv) Baldecchi, Jay (Meaghan) Baldecchi and Chuck (Erin) Baldecchi who loved and adored him; his 11 grandchildren, Kate (Jake Bowling) Dickson, Mary Southgate Dickson (Peter) Simms, Caroline Dickson, Tuc, Brooke, Ellie, Michael, Colin, Bella, Guido and Cade Baldecchi and his loving sister, Ronnie Matule.
After graduating from Fair Lawn High School (NJ), Guido boldly ventured south for college, to North Carolina State University.  There he majored in Textile Chemistry, pledged Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, and made lifelong friends. Those ties proved strong later in life when he left his native New Jersey, to open Nu Southern Dyeing and Finishing in Henderson, NC. For over 25 years, he and Stu raised their children and invested deeply in the civic, educational, corporate, and social fabric, literally and figuratively, of Vance County. 

After Stu lost her battle with breast cancer in 1984, he moved back to New York City. In New York, another fateful blind date led him to meet and marry Diane Fuller. Guido and Diane traveled extensively and enjoyed city life. They called Manhattan’s Carnegie Hill neighborhood home for over 30 years, until her passing in 2022. Guido spent the final chapter of his life surrounded by the love of his children and grandchildren in their cherished community of Sherwood Forest, Maryland. His children and grandchildren will be forever grateful for the gift of Sherwood Forest, where Stu and Guy first bought a summer home in 1967. Nonno and his family made memories, too many to count, there on the Severn River. His kindness to strangers, integrity in business, deep Episcopal faith, and love of family are imprinted on his children and grandchildren’s souls forever. 

Generations from now, great grandchildren will be told to be “Brave and Strong” with a hug and a kiss on each cheek, will wonder why they discuss what they are having for dinner during lunch, and talk about what they should eat tomorrow, at dinner tonight. Most importantly, when they order soup they will know to instruct the waiter “to please make sure it’s good and hot!” 

The family would like to thank the staff of Sunrise Senior Living of Annapolis and Heartland Hospice for their kind and loving care during Guido’s last months. Memorial gifts may be directed to The Sherwood Forest Endowment,134 Sherwood Forest Rd, Sherwood Forest, MD 21405 or a charity of one’s choosing in Guido’s name. 

Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Karl August Selinger, a longtime resident of Crofton, passed away peacefully in the arms of loved ones on Sunday, March 9, 2025. Born on August 1, 1936, in Lambrecht, Germany, to the late Otto and Margarethe Selinger, Karl immigrated to the United States in 1958. He was drafted into the Army and served as a Military Police Officer at Walter Ree,d serving on presidential security. His most cherished possessions were pictures of him protecting Presidents Eisenhower and Kennedy. He enjoyed his time working at Premium Distributors before he and his wife, Ursula, became original proprietors of the Old Stein Inn in Edgewater, MD. Karl was happy that he was able to bring some of his native German culture to America, especially a good German bier. Karl was especially fond of his hometown soccer team, FC Kaiserslautern. Karl loved gardening and traveling. He enjoyed many trips to his home country and the tropics. He and Ursula lived in Lake Chapala, Mexico, for ten years. Karl was the beloved husband of 63 years to the late Ursula Selinger. He is the beloved father of Patty Hammack and her husband, Skip, and Michael Selinger and his wife, Beth; the beloved grandfather “Opa” of Max, Bruno, and Sam Selinger and the late Brittany Bowe;n and loving great-grandfather of Chandler Boyington. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Country Home Assisted Living, 4187 Solomons Island Rd, Harwood, MD 20776. 
All services will be private.

Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Nancy Ann Hardesty of Edgewater, Maryland passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 9, 2025 in the presence of her loving sons and family.

She was born on July 20, 1963 in Washington, DC and raised in Edgewater, MD. Her imprint on the lives of those that had the pleasure of knowing her will be remembered through the countless good times shared together. Nancy was the heart of our family and a cherished member of the community.  Most recently, she found joy in driving a school bus, treating each child as if they were her own.  She was a second mother to all her sons’ friends, embracing them as part of her family. Nancy’s childhood home on Oak Bluff provided summers full of water sports and fun, becoming a treasured gathering place for friends and family.  Her home was also the hangout for all the community kids, some of whom she has remained friends with for over 50 years.  Most importantly, Nancy loved being a grandmother and spent countless hours doting on, spoiling, and showering her grandchildren with love.  When Nancy wasn’t spoiling her sons and grandchildren, she loved to travel with her best friend and sister, Jean, as well as with family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Ann Marie Hardy; first husband and father of her sons, Terry Hardesty; past husband, Gary Shifler; and her beloved dog, Winnie.

She is survived by her sons, Christopher Hardesty and his wife, Rachel, and their daughter Saylor Lee; Jeffrey Hardesty and his daughter, Marlie Mae; her father, Jim Hardy; her brother Bill Hardy and his wife, Cheryl; sisters, Mary Jo Clark and partner, Ron; Jean Decker, and Kathy Kindig along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Nancy was passionate about animals, especially her late pigs, Chops & Dixie, and her American Bulldog, Winnie.  She also adored her grand dogs, Hook, Skin and Finn.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Nancy's Life on Friday, March 14 from 4-8 PM at Yellowfin Steak & Fish House, 2840 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater.  
 
If you feel compelled to donate in her name, please contribute to a charity of your choice.              

Online condolences may be made by visiting the Memories link on this page.

Jill Ann Mason Smith, 61, passed away at her home in Annapolis on Sunday, March 9, 2025.

Jill was born on November 2, 1963, to Joyce and the late Honorable Judge Robert H. Mason.
Jill worked as a paralegal at the Prince George’s County Circuit Courts. Jill enjoyed gardening, decorating her home, and spending time with her family.

She is survived by her husband, Glenn Daniel, and her sons, Jake and Ben Smith. She is also survived by her siblings, Rich Johnson and Vicki Mason 

All services will be private at this time. You may leave a condolence by using the memories tab on this page.




Kenneth Donald Arthur, Sr., our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, departed this life peacefully on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the age of 86. Don was born on July 6, 1938, in Washington, DC, to the late Kenneth and Evelyn Arthur. In 1961, Don married his High School Sweetheart, Lucy Lee Dorr, and they built a wonderful life together. In February, they celebrated 64 years of marriage.  
Don enjoyed a successful career in corporate IT sales and developed many relationships that continued throughout his life. After retirement, Don volunteered for many organizations. He always had a leadership role and made significant contributions in those roles. He served on the Vestry at St. James Episcopal Church, Lothian, as Senior Warden and Treasurer and volunteered on several committees. Don also volunteered for Partners in Care, the South County Food Pantry, and the South County Concert Series and was an active member of the Ruritan Club, serving on various committees. 
If there was ever a person who loved hunting and fishing, it was Don. He traveled the world fishing with his sons, son-in-law, and a large network of friends. All of Don’s family and friends knew that if Don were on a trip, fishing would be involved. His love of fishing will live on in his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and large circle of friends.
Don was preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Andrew Reavis. He is survived by his beloved wife Lucy, sons Ken (Lisa) Arthur and Robert (Laura) Arthur; daughter Beth (Jim) Rushing; grandchildren Will (Sarah) Reavis, Lauren Arthur, Kyle Reavis, Carolyn (Hayden) Hewlett, Matthew Arthur, Bradley Arthur, and Andrew Arthur; great-grandchildren Liam, Millie, Sawyer, and Shepherd Reavis; and brother Terry Arthur.
Services will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Lothian Ruritan Club, P.O. Box 43, Lothian, MD 20711, St. James Parish, 5757 Solomons Island Road, Lothian, MD 20711, or SCAN (South County Food Services), c/o St. James Parish, 5757 Solomons Island Road, Lothian, MD 20711. Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

Darlene “Dee” Rose Schatz, 58, a 6-year resident of Annapolis, MD and previously of Linthicum, MD passed away on March 8, 2025 at her home after a 5-month battle with cancer. Born on May 30, 1966 in Baltimore, MD to the late Bernard and Rachel Schatz, Dee enjoyed her career as a Reiki Master and owner of Divine Energy. She is survived by her children, Adam and Amanda Hay of Annapolis, MD; her brothers, Bernard of Ellicott City, MD and Thomas of Baltimore, MD; and her sisters, Virginia of Chesterfield, VA, Pauline of Pasadena, MD, and Rebecca of Catonsville, MD. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Dee’s life on Tuesday, March 11 from 1-3 and 5-7 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD, where her funeral service will be held the following day, on Wednesday, March 12 at 11:30 am.

Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

Paul Sophocles, 85, of Annapolis, Maryland, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on March 8, 2025. Born on December 11, 1939, in Cyprus to Michael and Anna Sophocles, Paul immigrated to the United States in 1951 through Ellis Island, accompanied by his mother and five siblings, to reunite with their father, who had arrived ahead of them to establish a new life and opportunities for the family.

Paul was a dedicated employee of the City of Annapolis, where he took great pride in his work and in serving his community. He was a devoted member of Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, where he found both faith and fellowship for many years. His faith carried him throughout his life, and he departed this world with the hope of the resurrection in his heart.

Above all, Paul cherished time spent with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren, who brought him endless joy. He is survived by his children, Michael Sophocles (Nicole) and Eleni Dykstra (Jason); his grandchildren, A.J. (Brianna), Rene, Paul Noah, Madeline, and Grayson; and his sister, Sophia Andreadakis. He is also survived by extended family and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Irene, with whom he is now reunited after 18 years apart. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Procopis, Helen, Esther, and Linda.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Friday, March 14, 2025, from 10 am until 11 am at Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 2747 Riva, Road, Annapolis, MD 21401, where a funeral service will begin at 11 am. Interment will follow at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Cemetery.


The family kindly requests memorial donations to Breakthrough T1D, PO Box 5042, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5042. Or online <a href = "https://www2.breakthrought1d.org/site/Donation2?23538.donation=form1&df_id=23538&mfc_pref=T?utm_source=google_cpc&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=FDRS_20240701_SEM_EG_GS_EM_v1&s_src=google_cpc&s_subsrc=FDRS_20240701_SEM_EG_GS_EM_v1&s_src=FDRS-FY25-PRMY-google_cpc&s_subsrc=168099367407-breakthrough%20t1d-e-705118411840&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAlbW-BhCMARIsADnwasrkIsbG9iJSftD7ew5fDq1dhwhxRERP0jnEA-rWKNmVagedo4CNaikaApAQEALw_wcB" >HERE</a> to support diabetes research and advocacy.

If you wish to send flowers, the family florist is Flowers by Donna, that number is 410-263-1112 or you can go online at <a href="https://flowersbydonna.org/" >Flowers by Donna</a>


Paul’s legacy of love, perseverance, and devotion to family will be forever remembered. May his memory be eternal.

...

Michael Willard Touma went home to be with his Heavenly Father on March 8, 2025. Mike was born on January 2, 1948, and raised in Port Huron, Michigan. He graduated with a BSE in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering from the University of Michigan in 1970 and went on to earn a Master’s Degree in 1971. 

Mike worked in the Department of Defense for his entire career, chiefly for Military Sealift Command (MSC). His projects included aircraft carriers, amphibious ships, and barges. He capped off his 43-year career as the MSC lead of the Mobile Landing Platform program for the Navy and Marine Corps. 

Mike was an inter collegiate athlete, participating in lacrosse and wrestling. He went on to coach several of his children’s youth sports teams, including baseball and soccer.

Mike met his wife of 54 years, Patsi (nee Henion), at the University of Michigan. They married in 1970. They loved vacationing at the beach together. 

Mike enjoyed spending time with his family, attending church, reading history, and rooting for the University of Michigan football team (Go Blue.)

Mike asked Jesus to be his Savior while in college and spent his life growing in that relationship. His ministry of first love became Child Evangelism Fellowship where he served at both the county and state levels for over 40 years.

His loved ones here will wish for more time with him but the Bible tells us that in “[His] book they all were written, The days fashioned for me” (NKJV, Psalms 139:16). We will be reunited one day.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Patsi; his son Andy and wife Monica; his son Kevin and wife Katie, their children Eleanor and Freya; and his daughter Laurie.  He is also survived by his sisters Chris, Bess, Carol, and Lucy, as well as many beloved family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 3:00 pm at Grace Presbyterian Church in Davidsonville. Burial will take place in Michigan later this year. 

Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Walter “Till” Tilden Clarke, a 68 year resident of Annapolis, MD and formerly of Davidsonville and Riva, died on Saturday, March 8 of natural causes after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family. Born on June 6, 1933 in Davidsonville, MD to the late Vincent DePaul and Ada Clarke, Till served overseas in the Army during the Korean War and spent time traveling to England and Holland.  He then married the love of his life, Rose, and was married for 68 wonderful years. After 38 years, he retired as a supervisor from Baltimore Gas and Electric. Till was a lifetime member of the Elks, American Legion and VFW, where he made many close friends along the way. He enjoyed crabbing, especially in his later years alongside his brother, Grover. Till also enjoyed gardening, growing vegetables and teaching this to his children and grandchildren. He was a lover of all pets and even wildlife. He enjoyed playing corn hole and sitting by a fire with family and friends. Above all, he loved being with his family and created a home where everyone felt welcomed and loved. He celebrated every holiday, birthday and special moment with his family. Till touched the lives of every person he met and will be greatly missed. Till is survived by his wife, Rose Clarke; his daughters, Connie (Mason) Gott of Chesapeake Beach, MD, Dawn (Bo) Sullivan of Stevensville, MD, and Janice (Raymond)  Frater of Pasadena, MD; his brother, Grover Clarke, six grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Dorothy Brady, Paul and Edward Clarke. Friends are invited to celebrate Til’s life on Friday, March 14 from 11 am until his funeral service begins at 12 noon at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens Cemetery Mausoleum in Annapolis, MD. Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Thomas George Bedard “Tom”, 58, a resident of Annapolis, MD for 35 years and previously of East Meadow, NY died on Friday, March 7 at the Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, MD.

Born on May 17, 1966 in Oyster Bay, Long Island to Jeanne and the late Al Bedard, Tom was a graduate of the University of Maryland where he was a 4 year standout on the Varsity Lacrosse team and member of Phi Delta Theta. After graduating, he began his career working at Prudential. He quickly realized that he could use his skills to start his own company and left to start BENCO, which later was renamed FosterThomas. He owned and operated the company successfully for over 30 years, constantly demonstrating his brilliant business mind and magnetic personality. Tom was a member of the Annapolis Yacht Club and he loved spending time with his sons, coaching youth lacrosse and boating. Tom was fiercely loyal, and would do anything he could to help those that he cared about.

He is survived by his wife, Dawn Bedard; his sons, Brett and Beau Bedard both of Annapolis, MD and Ben Bedard of Manhattan, NY and his brother, Doug Bedard of Danbury, CT. In addition to his father, Tom was preceded in death by his brother, Greg Bedard.

Friends are invited to celebrate Tom's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Friday, March 14 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider pledging donation to Tom's charity of choice, <a href="https://pages.lls.org/voy/md/mdlls25/bbedard">Leukemia Lymphoma Society</a>.

Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

A full obituary will be posted here soon. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

On November 17, 1937, the late Jonas and Ara Gatling welcomed the blessing of Ray Lee Gatling, Sr., in Bertie County, North Carolina.  “Pops” or “Uncle Ray Lee” as he was lovingly known, transitioned into eternal life on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at Inova Alexandria, Hospital in Alexandria, Virginia.

Ray was educated in the Bertie County Public School System.  He was employed at Miller & Long for thirty-five years until his retirement. After retirement, Pops enjoyed hunting, carpentry, traveling, camping, working in his yard and spending time with his family and friends.  He was a very independent and loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather.  He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.  Until his demise, he was considered the “master of all trades” and “Mr. Fix-It.”  There was absolutely nothing that Pops couldn’t build from the ground up or mend back together.  He was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan and loved his Cowboy movies.  Pops presence and demeanor spoke volumes.

He met and married the love of his life, Jeannette Gatling, whom preceded him in death.  The Lord blessed their union in marriage with three children, Harriett Green, (deceased); Cynthia Gatling and Ray Lee Gatling, Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memories his son Ray Lee Gatling Jr. (Vivian) and daughter, Cynthia Gatling; Durrell Carter (grandson), Capri Marquise Green, Sr. (grandson), Ray Lee Gatling, III (grandson), Dominique “Joy” Gatling (grand-daughter), Kinady Carter (great grand-daughter), Koley Carter (great grand-daughter), Leia Genesis Dixon (great grand-daughter), Capri Marquise Green, Jr (great grandson), Ezra Ray Gatling (great grandson) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Two sisters preceded him in death:  Margaret Stephenson and Willie Mae Gatling.

Three brothers preceded him in death:  Floyd, Forrest and James Gatling.

We will all cherish the memories left behind-from a loving man known as “Pops”, “Uncle Ray Lee” “Ham” and “Fair Weather”.

Relatives and friends are invited to Ray's Life Celebration on Friday, March 21, 2025 from 10 A.M. until the start of the service at 11 A.M. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745.

Janet Lea Catlett, 73, a ten year resident of Edgewater, MD and previously of Springfield, VA, died on March 3 at her home after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer over three years ago. Born on January 10, 1952 in Washington, DC to the late Bert and Clayla Grogan, Janet was a loving stay at home mother to her two children, a dedicated wife, caregiver and volunteer. She was a member of the West River Yacht Club and enjoyed gardening, antiquing, reading, stained glass and doing crafts. Janet is survived by her husband of 55 years, Larry Stephen Catlett; her children, Kevin Stephen Catlett of Edgewater and Laura Catlett Brown of Reston, VA and her grandchildren, Myles and Evan Brown and Kayla Catlett. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society (cancer.org). A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Relatives and friends are invited to Filomena's Life Celebration on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 from 6 P.M. to 9 P.M. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at 10:30 A.M at St Columba Catholic Church, 7804 Livingston Rd, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 8000 Woodyard Road, Clinton, MD 20745.

Floyd “Allen” Richey, of Harwood, MD, passed away March 3, 2025, at the age of 61. Allen was born in Dallas, TX on July 28, 1963. His parents, Don and Jan Richey, of Fort Worth, TX, raised him in their glass business and he really enjoyed it. He then went on to serve in the Navy on the USS Nicholson (DD-982) ship. Later in life, he started his own glass business with his wife and worked there until his passing. Those who knew Allen knew he had a love for rock music and a passion for PRS guitars. While music and guitars were his favorite hobbies, what made Allen who he was, was his heart. He was a man who always put others first, offering a hand to anyone in need without ever expecting anything in return. Whether through his work, his friendships, or in his family life, he was known for going above and beyond to help others. He was always ready to lend a listening ear or provide support when someone was struggling, no matter how big or small the need.

Allen is preceded in death by his mother, Jan Richey. Allen will be deeply missed by his wife, (Christie Richey), children (Christin Shannon, Bella Richey, and Bristol Richey), stepchildren (Lacee Holder and Maddie Wagner), grandsons (James and Liam Shannon), sister (Carole Word), and father (Don Richey), as well as his extended family and countless friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to Allen’s life celebration on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 from 6-8 PM at Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater.  Online condolences may be left for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab on this page.


Dixon Lee Wood, beloved husband, father, brother and friend passed away on Sunday, March 2, 2025 at the age of 71.  He was born April 27, 1953 to the late Irving Lee and Alta Joy Wood of Davidsonville, MD.

Dixon attended Davidsonville Elementary School, Southern High School in Harwood, MD and James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA.  He was employed by the State of Maryland’s Department of the Environment as a geologist.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Dorothy Wood; his two sons, Geoffrey Lee Wood and Justin Dixon Wood; and his brother, Franklin Wood.

Visitation will be held at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD on Friday, March 14 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM.  Funeral services will be on Saturday, March 15 at 9 AM at Davidsonville United Methodist Church, 819 W. Central Avenue, Davidsonville, with interment to follow in the church cemetery.  A luncheon will be provided at the church immediately following the interment.

Dixon will surely be missed by many.

Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on the left side of this page.


Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and aviator, Roland Wayne Beall took his final flight on March 2, 2025 at the age of 84. He leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and wisdom that will forever be cherished by those who knew him.

For 49 years, Wayne was the devoted husband of Nancy, his partner in life and love. Together, they built a family filled with warmth and laughter. As a father and grandfather, he was a guiding light—always there with encouragement, wisdom, and the occasional daring tale from the skies.

Wayne’s passion for aviation was more than a career—it was a way of life. As a skilled pilot, he found freedom among the clouds, and as a flight instructor he taught countless others how to embrace flying and skydiving, making over 1200 jumps himself. His calm demeanor and unwavering confidence inspired all who had the privilege of learning from him.

Those who knew Wayne will remember his adventurous spirit, his unwavering dedication to his family, and his ability to bring both excitement and reassurance to every moment. His kindness, humor, and fearless love for life will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Roland's life on Thursday, March 6 from 2 to 4 and 5 to 7 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD where his funeral service will be held on Friday, March 7 at 11 am. Interment will follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Davidsonville, MD.

Blue skies, Wayne. May your spirit soar forever with your copilot Nancy.

Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.


Louise Virginia (née Murphy) Lee, 90, of Edgewater, MD passed away peacefully on March 2, 2025.  Born on March 20, 1934, to the late William Edward Murphy and Emma Virginia Murphy, she graduated from high school before establishing her career in the banking industry as a young adult. She later became a secretary for the Naval Academy in Annapolis. 

Louise and her lifelong love Bob spent 70 years together before his passing in late 2024. When they weren’t traveling, camping or visiting yard-sales, most of that time was spent in their beautiful home in Edgewater. She loved spending time boating on the river and in her garden. You’d often find her in their sunroom with her beloved dog Jake.  She was known for being giving and loving with a big heart. 

In addition to her parents, Louise was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Lee, her brother, Charlie Murphy and her son, Rocky Lee. She is survived by her Daughter, Brenda (née Lee) Little, many grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family who love and will miss her dearly.  

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Louise’s life on Saturday, March 15 from 10 to 11 am, followed immediately by her funeral service at 11 am at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD 21037. Interment to follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens, 900 W Central Avenue, Davidsonville, MD 21035. In lieu of flower, memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA of Anne Arundel County (P.O. Box 3471, Annapolis, MD 21403 or online <a href="https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/AACSPCA">here</a>).

Constance “Connie” Joan Freise (nee Clark), a lifelong learner and teacher, passed away at her home in Annapolis, MD, on February 28, 2025, at the age of 88.

Connie was born on April 23, 1936, to the late Frank and Anna Clark (nee Bears), and was raised in a close-knit family in and around Eldon, MO. She married Bruce Freise, the brother of her college roommate, on July 26, 1959. After a few moves at the start of their careers and family, they settled in Racine, WI, where they raised their three children.

She attended the Lindenwood College for Women and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Missouri. In her 40s, she earned a master’s degree in education with a specialization in reading from Carthage College.

She spent most of her career in Racine teaching at St. John Nepomuk Catholic School, Starbuck Middle School and Jerstad-Agerholm Middle School. 

Connie was an avid reader, gardener and theater lover, attending performances wherever she lived and being involved with the Racine Theatre Guild. She was an active member of the Plymouth Congregational Church in Racine.

After retiring, she and Bruce lived in several places including Hilton Head, SC; Williamsburg, VA; on a cruiser boat; and Naples, FL before moving to Annapolis. Wherever they lived, she made friends and volunteered to make her communities stronger, from tutoring students in South Carolina; to working at FISH, a food pantry and clothing service in Williamsburg; to working at the Naples Public Library.

Connie is preceded in death by her loving husband of 65 years, Bruce Freise. She is survived by her children: Catherine Chester (Dave), Clark Freise (Amy) and Heather Tredup (Steve) and four grandchildren: Zachary and Nathaniel Chester and Meghan and Emily Freise. She is also survived by her brothers, Frank T. Clark Jr. and Charles Wm. Clark, and many nieces and nephews.

Per Connie’s request, no funeral services will be held. Memorial donations and donations in lieu of flowers can be made to St. Jude in <a href="https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=8728936&fr_id=154020&pg=personal">Connie’s honor</a>. 

Online condolences may be offered using the Memories link on this page.

Robert John Skarr, 83, a 52-year resident of Davidsonville, MD and previously of Washington, DC passed away at his home on February 27, 2025. Born on May 13, 1941 in Washington, DC, he graduated from Archbishop Carroll High School in 1959 and went on to graduate from the University of Maryland with a BA in English and later with an MA in American Studies and MS in Library Science. Robert enjoyed a lengthy career that spanned multiple special libraries, including the Transportation Institute in Washington, DC, Jack Faucett Associates in Bethesda, MD, and the Smithsonian Institute National History Library for 17 years. Robert also served his country in the United States Navy, deployed on service tours in the Mediterranean and South China Sea off the coast of Vietnam. In his spare time, he enjoyed volunteering for several local historical societies, including Historic Annapolis for 5 years and the Maryland Archives for 5 years. He was also an avid collector of books, music, and art. Robert was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Jacklyn A Skarr, and his sons, Matthew Skarr of Atlanta, GA and Jonathan Skarr of Ellicott City, MD. 

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Robert’s life on Tuesday, March 18 at 10:30 am, followed by his funeral service at 11:30 am at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD 21037. Interment to follow at Maryland Veterans Cemetery, 1122 Sunrise Beach Rd, Crownsville, MD 21032.

Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.

Obituaries

Robert Duncan, IV Janna Lornson

Nathan Kern

Shirley "Annie" McCarthy

Rita Kapurch

Guido Baldecchi

Karl Selinger

Nancy Hardesty

Jill Smith

Kenneth Arthur, Sr.

Darlene Schatz

Paul Sophocles

Michael Touma

Walter "Till" Clarke

Thomas Bedard

Jaclynn Fletcher

Ray Gatling Sr.

Janet Catlett

Filomena Seveses

Floyd Richey

Dixon Wood

Roland Beall

Louise Lee

Constance Freise

Robert Skarr