Rita Muir Buell, 95, of Boonsboro, MD, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2022.

Born on April 24, 1926 in Callao, Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Archie Tyler and Mary Douglas Muir.

She was the loving wife of the late Joseph Whitman Buell, III.

Rita is survived by her son, Joseph Whitman Buell, IV, husband of Macie Hopkins Buell of Poolesville, MD, her daughter, JoAnne Rita Buell of Boonsboro, MD, one granddaughter, Samantha Hopkins of Prescott, Arizona, and six nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by one brother, Douglas Muir and two sisters, Iris Chambers and Mae Taylor.

Rita worked for Project Hope as a young mother and then began a career in commercial property management in Bethesda, Maryland until she retired. Rita was an avid gardener and took great pride in the eye candy that was her lawn, people driving in the neighborhood would stop and express their admiration. No matter what Rita's initial destination was she could not pass up a yard sale, a hobby she shared with her late husband. Rita was known by family members, friends and neighbors as a wonderful cook and baker. In her later years, Rita traveled to many interesting destinations on the East Coast and Europe with her sister Iris.  While enjoying all her other activities, Rita loved reading and you could always find her tucked away with a book in her hand, sometimes awake but sometimes napping.

The family will be receiving friends on Monday, February 14th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Road, Barnesville, MD  20832.

Interment will follow on Tuesday, February 15th at 11:00 a.m., Norbeck Memorial Park, 16225 Batchellors Forest Road, Olney, MD  20832.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements were made by Hilton Funeral Home. 

Howard Nicholas Eugene Cole, 29, of Damascus, MD, passed away February 14, 2022.

Born May 24, 1992, he was the loving son of Matthew Leon Cole Sr and Janice May (Christian) Cole. Howard was a wonderful, fun, supportive brother who is survived by his sisters, Jacqueline (Jackie) May Cole, Ashlinn Regina Cole, and Kaitlyn Catherine Cole, as well as his parents, Matthew and Janice Cole of Damascus, Maryland.  Howard was preceded in death by his brother, Matthew Leon Cole Jr, uncle, Robert Eugene Cole, aunt, Debra Lynn(Cole)Baxter, Grandparents, Howard and May King, MacArthur Cole and most recently his beloved “MawMaw” Mary Cole, whose unconditional love of Howard was a light in his life.
Howard’s family and friends meant the world to him. He would go out of his way for anyone he met, and he fiercely loved the Lord. Howard was a fun-loving, high-spirited guy who loved the outdoors, had a passion for cooking and really enjoyed gardening. He was a hardworking man, but always stopped to laugh, smell the flowers and give a helping hand whenever needed. Howard found beauty in nature, and a friend in many. He was always thinking of others and looking on the bright side of life. He’ll be forever remembered for his loving, genuine heart, bear hugs and wide smile.
Funeral service will be held on Friday, March 11th at 11:00 am, at Barnesville Baptist Church 17917 Barnesville Rd, Barnesville, MD 20838, with graveside service immediately following at Neelsville Presbyterian Church, Germantown, MD and a following lunch at St Mary’s Catholic Pavilion 18230 Barnesville Rd, Barnesville, MD to celebrate and remember Howard Nicholas, who is missed beyond words and will be forever in our hearts.

Mildred (Biddie) E. Piasecki, 78, of Damascus, MD, passed away on February 17, 2022.She was the loving wife to the late Daniel S. Piasecki.Born on July 31, 1943 in Frederick, MD, she was the daughter of the late Benjamin Joseph and Mildred Cordelia (Stottlemyer) Hayes.Mildred is survived by her son; Dan Piasecki, wife, Veronica, sister; Jennifer Haeberle, one granddaughter; Alexis Piasecki and numerous beloved cousins and friends.The family will be receiving friends on Monday, February 21st from 10:00 AM -11:00 AM at Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Road, Barnesville, MD, where a funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM. Interment to follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 515 S Market St, Frederick, MD 2170.In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in her memory to Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL.

Dr. R. Christopher “Chris” Goodwin passed away on February 18th at the age of 73. He was the son of the late Harold Leland Goodwin and Elizabeth Ingëborg Svensk Goodwin of suburban Maryland. 

 

Dr. Goodwin was a dedicated scholar and practitioner of anthropology and archaeology, having graduated from Tulane University (B.A. Honors 1971), Florida State University (M.S. 1973), and Arizona State University (Ph.D. 1979). One of the nation’s leading experts in cultural resources management, he was passionate about preserving the past, making it relevant for today, and shaping a better future.

 

After serving as a Research Associate at the Yale Peabody Museum and a Research Fellow at the United States National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Dr. Goodwin established  R. Christopher Goodwin & Associates, Inc. As its President and Chief Executive Officer for more than 40 years, he led hundreds of major cultural resource and archaeological investigations, including underwater projects along the Atlantic Coast, the Chesapeake Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, and in rivers ranging from the Connecticut to the Mississippi, as well as land-based projects across regions including the Gulf Coast, the Mid Atlantic, the Great Plains, and the Northeast.

 

Over his distinguished career, Dr. Goodwin received numerous awards, including the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s National Preservation Honor Award, the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Administrators Award of Excellence “in recognition of outstanding service to the nation,” Louisiana’s Professional Archaeologist of the Year Award, and Preservation Connecticut’s 2020 Award of Merit for his work on Hurricane Sandy resiliency planning studies on land and offshore. He was a respected author of more than 500 monographs and technical reports, including his first monograph Villa Taino de Borqueron: The Excavation of an Early Taino Site in Puerto Rico, published in 1975. His scholarly articles were featured in American Anthropologist, American Scientist, American Antiquity, Florida Anthropologist, and Revista Interamericana.

 

Chris was a longtime resident of the D.C. metropolitan area and a lifetime lover of New Orleans, Louisiana, the city where he launched his career and that he considered his second home, for its cuisine and music as well as its people and culture. Chris leaves behinds his wife of 43 years Cyd, his son Scott, his daughter Kristina and grandson Merlin. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. He was a consummate storyteller, mentor, and friend. He will be sorely missed.

Loving husband, father and grandfather, Peter Damian Mulcahy, 64, of Dickerson, MD passed away on Saturday, February 19, 2022.

 

Peter was born on October 17, 1957, in Traverse City, MI, he was the son of the late David Edward and Jean Mary (Sculley) Mulcahy.

 

Peter is survived by his loving wife, Margherite Mulcahy, six children; Clare Thom (Jason), Joseph Mulcahy (Margaret), Michael Mulcahy (Sarah), David Mulcahy, Jean Herrera (Edwin), Frances Fortune, nine siblings; Christopher Mulcahy, Michael Mulcahy, Joseph Mulcahy, Mary Muzzarelli, Lucy Repovz, Theresa Mulcahy, David Mulcahy, Martha Ahluwalia, Ann Mawby and five grandchildren.

 

Along with his parents, Peter was preceded in death by one daughter; Mary Catherine Mulcahy and three siblings, David James Mulcahy, Thomas Mulcahy, and his twin brother, Paul Mulcahy.

 

Peter was a devout Catholic and spent many hours in prayer and weekly adoration and was well known for sharing the message of God’s Divine Mercy by highlighting and handing out books by St. Faustina Kowalska. Peter was the proud business owner of Mulcahy Brothers Painting Company which he and his wife, Margherite built over many years of hard work and dedication. Peter passed his vast knowledge of the painting industry on to his son, Michael Mulcahy, who took over the day to day estimating in 2018 while Peter recovered from surgery. Peter happily transitioned to a more supporting role in the business so that he could spend as much time as possible with his children and grandchildren.

 

A visitation will be held on Friday February 25, 2022, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Hilton Funeral Home 22111 Beallsville Road, Barnesville, MD 20838.

 

A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday February 26, 2022 at 11 AM at Mother Seton Parish 19951 Father Hurley Boulevard, Germantown, MD 20874 and burial at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery 18230 Barnesville Road, Barnesville, MD 20838. 

 

The Family of Peter Mulcahy requests that masks be worn when indoors at the viewing, funeral Mass and reception.

 

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in his memory to the Central Union Mission, 65 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington DC 20001.

Sharon A. Wright, (Shari) of Martinsburg, WV. passed on to Heaven Wednesday, Feb. 17th, 2022. Shari was the loving and devoted wife of Aaron Wright. They shared a life of love and devotion to each other and a special love for and service to the Lord for over 27 years.

Born on Feb. 3rd, 1965 to her loving and caring parents, Gerry (Deceased) and Peggy Morningstar in Poolesville, MD., Shari was also a loving sister and lifelong friend to her brother Steven E. Morningstar and his wife RaNae of Poolesville, MD. She was also “Aunt Shari” to her precious and loving nieces and nephews, Jamie Jamison and husband Frank and Steven and Tyler Morningstar and the Great Aunt of Addison and Ashlynn Jamison all of Poolesville, MD.

Shari was also the loving granddaughter of Edward and Madeline Hall and Murrel and Emma Morningstar (All Deceased), all of Poolesville, MD. Shari loved her grandparents with all her heart and was a devoted, loving and caring granddaughter her whole life.

Shari grew up and lived in Poolesville most of her life. She shared a special bond of love and togetherness with her Dad, Mom and Brother her entire life. Shari loved traveling the country and vacationing with her family, especially their yearly vacations to the beaches up and down the East Coast and especially Ocean City, MD. and their numerous trips to Williamsburg, VA.  She loved spending time with her family outdoors in nature and she adored all animals especially her family’s pet cats and dogs. She loved the large family gatherings and dinners they would share on a regular basis with all of their family members on holidays, picnics, going to Church and so many other special occasions , where there was always so much, joy, laughter and love shared every time they would be together.

Shari had a very special relationship with her Dad and Mom and she was a devoted and loving daughter to both her parents. Shari’s Beloved Dad and Mom cared for and devoted their entire life and all their love to their very special and amazing daughter. The care, the love and the commitment Shari’s parents gave her was nothing short of amazing. Shari’s parents loved her with all their hearts and always did anything for Shari she ever asked or needed. Their undying devotion to Shari had no end. Shari and her Mom spoke numerous times daily right up to the day Shari passed and Shari and her parents shared a lifetime of love that will last forever.

Shari also shared a very special love and friendship with her brother. They grew up spending every day together in Poolesville. Even as adults they shared a very special bond with each other and spent much time together, went on family vacations together and were extremely close and devoted to each other. They communicated with each other daily right up to the day Shari passed. They shared a lifetime of special memories and love that will truly live on forever.

Shari and Aaron were married on Sept. 23rd, 1995. Shari loved Aaron with all her heart and Aaron was a loving and devoted husband. They shared a very special bond of love for each other and a love and devotion to the Lord that was the guiding light of both their lives. They loved spending time with each other and with all of their family and friends. They loved traveling and seeing new places, they loved all of their pet cats and dogs and spending time in nature together. Above all else they loved going to Church and spending time learning about and growing in their knowledge and faith in Jesus Christ and sharing God’s love with all of their brothers and sisters in the Lord. Shari and Aaron were committed to growing closer to the Lord every day and sharing their faith and love of Jesus with everyone they ever knew or met. They were committed together with all their hearts to spreading the Good News of the one true Gospel and were extremely influential in the lives of so many people in learning about and committing to a sincere and Biblically sound relationship with Jesus Christ. They were both a very positive influence in so many people giving their lives to Jesus Christ including Shari’s Dad, Mom and Brother, as well as so many other family members and friends and even strangers they have met along their life’s journey together. Shari and Aaron lived a wonderful life together but they also lived a life committed to the Lord and sharing the true Gospel of Jesus Christ that will sincerely have a lasting impact for Eternity on so many wonderful people they knew and loved.

Shari had a sincere, loving and devoted care for her precious nieces and nephews, Jamie, Steven, Tyler, Addie and Ashlynn. She loved them with all her heart, was extremely generous and kind to them and literally prayed for and spoke of them daily. They all truly meant the world to “Aunt Shari” and she sincerely loved them as much as life itself.

Shari was also surrounded by a large, loving and caring family and shared a special bond with so many of her extended family members throughout her entire life. Shari was blessed with numerous Aunts, Uncles and Cousins who she adored and spent time with and shared a lifetime of love and memories with. Shari loved her family members with a sincere and genuine love and her entire family shared their lives and their love with Shari as well. Family meant so much to Shari and she always felt so blessed and loved to be able to live an entire lifetime with so many wonderful and caring relatives who loved her with all their hearts.

Shari graduated from the Univ. of Maryland with Honors in 1987. She was a Social Worker and Counselor for Disabled Individuals for many years. She was an extremely talented and creative Artist and an avid reader and she loved writing. She really enjoyed traveling, visiting zoo’s, aquariums and museums, she loved flowers and being outdoors in nature and witnessing all of the wonders of God’s creations here on earth. She also loved animals of all kinds and especially all her pet cat’s and dog’s throughout her life. They were a huge part of Shari’s life. Her most recent pet, Neelix, was a blessing to Shari and Aaron, they truly cherished their, “3 leg super cat Neelix”, as Shari would always call him.

Shari also sincerely enjoyed meeting new people and was committed to trying to help and be a friend to anyone she ever met. She was a generous, selfless, faithful and loving friend her entire life. Aaron would often say, “Shari always knew what it meant to truly love people with an unconditional and sincere love that was very, very unique”. Shari was also a Prayer warrior who would pray for anyone or with anyone at any time, and above all Shari loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with all her heart and soul.

Shari was and always will be a blessing to everyone she ever met. She was a very talented, smart, humorous person with a wonderful and welcoming personality ever since she was a little girl. She was an amazing wife, devoted daughter and granddaughter, caring sister, loving aunt, cherished niece and cousin and such an encouragement and inspiration to everyone she ever knew. However, above all she was and always will be proudest of being a humble, devoted and loving servant of God.

SHARI ALWAYS SAID HER LIFE GOAL WAS TO ONE DAY MAKE IT TO HEAVEN AND SEE JESUS!

MISSION ACCOMPLISED!!!

May Shari Forever Rest in the Loving Arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ…

Family will receive Friends on Tuesday March 1st from 6-8 pm at Hiltons Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Rd, Barnesville, MD 20838. – All are Welcome and Encouraged to attend.

“Celebration of Life” Funeral Services will be held on Thursday March 3rd at 11 am at the Rockville Church of Christ, 1450 W. Montgomery Avenue, Rockville MD 20850 – All are Welcome and Encouraged to attend.

Interment/Graveside Service will follow immediately after the Funeral at the Monocacy Cemetery, 19801 W. Hunter Rd. Beallsville, MD 20839 – All are Welcome and Encouraged to attend.

There will also be a gathering of Family and Friends to honor Shari’s Life and Memory later this Spring, Date and Time TBD – All will be Welcomed and Encouraged to attend.

For Health Reasons – All who attend are kindly encouraged to wear a Mask/Face Covering please.

In lieu of Flowers: Donations can be made in Shari’s Memory to the Rockville Church of Christ, to further the work of the Lord’s Kingdom. Attn: Rosanna Phelan

Thomas W. Smith, 63, of Mt. Airy, MD, passed away on February 26, 2022, in his home surrounded by love. Born on July 14, 1958 in MD, he was the son to the late Roy Lee and Ruth Marie (Stokes) Smith.

Tom is survived by his wife, Beth Smith of 26 years, two sisters; Jeanette Broadwater and Linda Jenkins (Mike), four nieces, five great nieces, one great-great nephew and one daughter in heart. He was also survived by his two dogs and 14 myotonic goats.

Tom’s love of agriculture started in the 8th grade with the Gaithersburg FFA. Though he held many jobs he enjoyed the last 17 years he spent at Gladhill Brothers, Damascus and especially, his final three months at Tractor Supply in Mt. Airy.

Over the years, he had many hobbies to include, 75/80 Racetrack, MD two-Cylinder Club, Team Tuna Can Racing, Mason Dixon Myotonic Goat Club, many positions at the Damascus Community Fair and his greatest love of all the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair.  He was a lifetime member with over 1,000 volunteer hours in Old MacDonald’s Barn and the last 14 years as Superintendent.  

Celebration of life will be held Thursday, March 3rd at 6:00 pm in the Heritage Room at the Montgomery County Agricultural Fairgrounds.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in his memory to the Tom Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund at the Montgomery County Agricultural Fairgrounds, 16 Chestnut Street, Gaithersburg, MD 20877.

Virginia A. Gibson (88) of Boyds, Maryland, died on February 6, 2021.  Born in Lewiston, Idaho on June 13, 1932, she was the daughter of the late William and Rachel Jones.

Virginia is survived by her brother, Ricker Jones, children Wendy (Brian) Sutch-Kiser, Amy (Bobby) Sutch Gupta, Mark Sutch and step children, Steven (Deneen) Gibson, Michelle Duchowny, 6 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her late husbands, Edmund Leon Sutch and Steven Curtis Gibson.

After graduating from the University of Idaho with a degree in Journalism, she attended Union Theological Seminary and received a Master’s in Christian Education.  She served several churches as Director of Christian Education, and published articles for church magazine’s and local newspapers.  She also edited, Dory Howell’s book, “Stand Straight and Grow Tall,” and assisted with Arthur Virts’ book, “Boyds: A Character Study by Arthur Virts and Friends.”

Virginia was very active in the community. She served on various organizations such as Boyds Historical Society, Boyds Federal Credit Union and the Boyds Presbyterian Church.  She loved flying, writing, bird watching, reading mysteries, travelling in her RV to bluegrass festivals and to Albuquerque, NM on a family caravan/reunion to the hot air balloon festival.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Boyds Presbyterian Church, PO Box 320, 19901 White Ground Rd, Boyds, MD 20841.

A Memorial Service will be at Boyds Presbyterian Church with interment to follow at a later date.

Nancy Troiano Lynch, of Ft Myers, FL formerly of Gaithersburg, MD passed away peacefully on Monday, February 8, 2021.

Nancy was born on July 24, 1919 in Washington, D.C.,  the daughter of Antonio and Antonina Troiano.

She is survived by her sons William T. Lynch (Diane) of Gaithersburg, MD and John H. (Betsy) of Edgewater, MD. She was predeceased by her son Anthony T. Lynch.

During her lifetime she was a member of the Travel Club of Damascus, The Lioness Club, Shady Grove Hospital Volunteers Club and the 101st Airborne Associate Member.

A Celebration of Life for family members will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made Kindred Hospice 4886 New Broad St Ste 200, Orlando FL  32814.

Jean Louise Walker, 88, of Ijamsville, MD, was born in Bay City, MI, on January 17, 1933. Surrounded by all of her children at her home, she peacefully went to her heavenly home on February 13, 2021.

The daughter of Edward Albert Whitbrodt and Lena Catherine Fischer, Jean married the love of her life, David Walker, Jr., on October 18, 1952. David preceded her in death in 1997. Jean and David are the beloved parents of Debra (Harold Green, deceased), Linda (Mike Kroeger), Paul (Penny Navarro, deceased), and Glenn (Robin Young). Their grandchildren are Stephanie and Sabrina Green; Tess (Jesse Carter), Nell (Tanner Wilson), and Kitt Kroeger; Kris Navarro; and Lacey (Phil Westcott) and Garrett Walker. Great-grandchildren are Philippa, Rex, Casper, & Romy (Carter) and Shea & Wren (Wilson). Jean is also survived by her late brother Jerry’s widow MaryAnn Whitbrodt; their children Tony, Sheryl (Randy Jensen) and Mike; and their grandsons David and Peter (Jensen); as well as her cherished cousins Nan Brandt (George Krohn), Susie Parker, and Paulette Levasseur.  

Jean was a much loved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She and Dave enjoyed golf, bowling, traveling, and square dancing, but they delighted most in their family. They created a close-knit family that included the Christian faith, annual trips to see family in Michigan, road trips on the weekends, a healthy work ethic, and a memorable Scottish steak pie. Jean’s impeccable, German-heritage cleanliness was matched only by her listening ear, her tender heart for both people and animals, and her humble spirit.

A private family graveside service will take place at Parklawn Cemetery in Rockville, MD at a later date.

The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to Julia (RN) and Patricia (HHA) of Frederick Health Hospice for their compassionate care of Jean.

On Thursday February the 11th 2021, Jarrod Stephen Sharp, 43, loving father of three daughters, passed away. Jarrod was born August 23, 1977 in York, PA and was a veteran who served in the US Air Force. He was a Computer Science graduate from the University of Maryland, an MBA graduate from Penn State University, and held a Juris Doctor Degree from the Baltimore School of Law, University of Maryland. He was exceptionally bright and an overachiever in all his academic and professional pursuits.  

 

He was employed as a Privacy Attorney with Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and was an Adjunct Professor at the University of Maryland.  His career spanned both Law, Information Technology and Cyber Security fields and he held various prestigious positions in both areas over the last two decades.

 

Jarrod was constantly learning new things and was relentless in his pursuit to improve his education and professional accomplishments. He loved all types of sports and was a loyal Terps fan. Jarrod was most passionate about being a father to his three beautiful daughters. He was always trying to foster new interests and expose them to new things. Jarrod was a fun and caring father who wanted the absolute best for his daughters. The girls have many memories of fun times spent with him at the beach, the lake, the mountains and at home. He loved them dearly and no one could make them laugh as much as him. 

 

Jarrod was a charismatic, passionate and loyal friend to many. His sense of humor was perhaps his most endearing quality, one which his friends and family relished. Jarrod never missed an opportunity to make people laugh. His personality and charm lit up every room he walked into, and made every get together with friends a time to always remember. 

 

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Virginia Margolis. He is survived by his three daughters, Avery (7), Ellison (5), Isla (3), his paternal grandmother, Dorothy, mother Lorri Rhiner, father, Stephen, stepmother, Janet, sister, Courtney, brother-in-law, Ahmad, nephew, Isaak, brother, Chad, and the mother of his three daughters, Laura.

 

In lieu of gifts or cards please donate to the charity of your choice to make this world a better place for his three daughters and all of us. Jarrod was well loved and respected by his friends, family and colleagues and will be very dearly missed. 

Romeo Liwanag Domingo, 85, of Gaithersburg, MD, passed away on February 16, 2021.

He was the loving husband to Conchita Domingo.

Born on February 24, 1935 in Manila, Philippines, he was the son to the late Mariano and Trinidad (Liwanag) Domingo.

Romeo was a loving husband, great father and best grandfather. He was the foundation of a wonderful family, and his devotion to raising his children made possible their successes in their education and careers. He was well respected and everybody who knew him loved him dearly. 

Along with his wife, Romeo is survived by his four daughters; Daisy Hernandez of Virginia, Chona Rose Quinto of Maryland, Grace Teves of Maryland, Anna Liza Domingo of Maryland, sons-in-law; Wilfredo Hernandez, Joey Quinto, Dennis Teves, grandchildren; Giancarlo, Phillip, Darleen, Romeo Josef, Gabby, Joshua, one great-grandchild; Logan, one brother; Rudy Carlos of Manila, Philippines.

The family will be having a private catholic service officiated by Fr. Stephan  Yap on Saturday, February 20, 2021 at 10:00 AM . Relatives and friends can view the service via Facebook live: https://www.facebook.com/HiltonFuneralHome/

Michael A. Matthews, 64, of Gaithersburg, MD went peacefully home to be with his Lord on Sunday, February 28, 2021. His wife and his two younger children were by his side.

Mike was born on May 23, 1956 in Washington, DC. He was the soulmate and best friend of his wife, Diane. He was a cheerleader and great role-model for his kids, Jonathan (Eubanks), Jenna and Nolan. When his future daughter-in-law, Kathryn (Eubanks), and her sister, Natalie (Marston), joined our family, he welcomed them with open arms. Now he has two granddaughters, Peyton (Eubanks) and Kaylee (Marston) who love his as Pop Pop.

Mike was the firstborn of this parents Joseph Matthews and Estherlin Cooper Matthews (deceased). He had two sisters, Estherlin Matthews-Thomas of Gaithersburg, MD, and Cynde Murphy of Hyattsvillle, MD. He is survived by his father, sisters, brother-in-law, Keith Murphy, nieces Kelsey Murphy, Candace Thomas, and Kerri Murphy, and nephews Kory (Kristin) Murphy and Christian Thomas.

A pivotal point in Mike’s teen years was his time spent as a camp counselor at Summit Lake Camp. His connections there led him to friendships at Montrose Baptist Church and his choice to attend Baylor University.

The family will be receiving friends on Friday March 5th from 4:00 - 7:00 PM at the Seneca Creek Community Church, 13 Firstfield Rd., Suite 100, Gaithersburg, MD  20878.  Funeral services will be held at the church on Saturday March 6th at 1:00 PM.  The family will be receiving friends 1 hour prior to the funeral service.

COVID protocol will be followed.

In lieu of flowers visit alivingtribute.org to plant a tree in memory of Mike.

Virginia Mae Gravely, 87, of Kensington, MD, passed away on February 9, 2020.

Virginia was the loving wife to the late Hosely J. Gravely, Jr.

Born on April 29, 1932, in Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Charles G. Sr., and Jennie M. Fowler.

She is survived by her three sons; Hosely J. Gravely III (Layla) of Harrisonburg, VA, Ronald L. Gravely (Kim) of Kensington, MD, Rodney K. Gravely (Traci) of Dickerson, MD; two daughters, Linda S. Quesenberry (Richard) of Hagerstown, MD, Mabel A. Gravely of Kensington, MD; five brothers, William Fowler of Frederick, MD, Robert Fowler of Urbana, MD, James E. Fowler of Hagerstown, MD, Howard Fowler of Dickerson, MD, Harry Fowler of Knoxville, MD; one sister, Martha Reed of Emmitsburg, MD; 4 half-siblings, Rosa Bolinger, Ruth Stambaugh, Carl C. Fowler, Wilmer Joseph Fowler; one step-brother, Kenneth Shumaker; nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Charles G. Fowler, Jr., Franklin F. Fowler and one half-sister, Dorothy E. Davidson.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 12th from 6-8 PM at Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Road, Barnesville, MD 20838, where funeral services will be celebrated at 11 AM on Thursday, February 13th. Interment to follow at Monocacy Cemetery, 19801 W Hunter Rd, Beallsville, MD 20839.     

Iona Rosella McGrew, 97, of Frederick, Maryland, passed away on February 10, 2020. Iona was the loving wife to the late Harry Ellis McGrew. She is survived by her daughter, Linda Joyce Snyder of Frederick, Maryland, son, Dennis John McGrew of Clarksburg, Maryland and one sister, Audrey Kleckner of St. Clairsville, Ohio.

She was blessed with eight grandchildren: Deborah Coates, Kimberly Lewis, Daniel McGrew and his wife Tara, Ashleigh Coe and her husband Jordan, Shawn McGrew and his wife Ashley, Timothy McGrew, Kevin McGrew and his wife Lacey. Followed by fifteen wonderful great grandchildren: Andrew Coates, Alexandra Rempe and her husband John, Juliana Coates, Madison, Mason, Mackena and Maddox McGrew, Nicholas, Chase and Aubrey Coe, Levi, Blake and Lucas McGrew, Shawn Jr. and Brooke McGrew.  She also had one great-great granddaughter, Raylynn Rempe.

She was preceded in death by her son Ronald Ellis McGrew and grandson Jeffrey William Gartner, two brothers, Leslie Morris and Pat Morris.

Iona (Grammie) lived a long happy life, on her own, and enjoyed entertaining her loving family and friends.

A graveside service will be held February 17, 2020, at 11 a.m. at the Mount Olivet Cemetery, Frederick Maryland. A celebration of her life will follow at the Urbana Volunteer Fire Rescue in Urbana, Maryland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to either Hospice of Frederick County, Maryland, or, a blood donation to the American Red Cross.

The family is incredibly grateful for the many kindnesses during her life and for the gift of caring, attentive medical staff at Frederick Regional Hospital during her final days. To remember Iona please extend kindness and care to others.

Joan M. Bennett, 83, of Damascus, MD, passed away on February 15, 2020.

She was the wife of the late Richard Bennett.

Born on May 20, 1936 in England, she was the daughter of the late Leonard Neilson and Eileen Mary King.

Surviving are her children; Cheri Bennett, Natalie Bennett, Christine Howard, Linda Smale, Richard Bennett; eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Family will be receiving friends from 10:00 AM to Noon on Sunday, February 23rd at the Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Road (Rt. 109), Barnesville, MD (hiltonfh.com). Interment is private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the American Kidney Fund at www.kidneyfund.org.

Gladys “Dolly” M. Larman, 73, of Boyds, MD, passed away suddenly on February 27, 2020.She was the wife of the late Harry S. Larman, Sr.Born on July 24, 1946, in Bermuda, she was the daughter of the late William E. and Gladys M. (Hodson) Giles.Surviving is one son, Harry “Skip” Larman and wife Amy of Mt. Airy, MD; one sister, Betty Richards; two brothers, Billy and Lenny Giles and 4 grandchildren.Dolly was preceded in death by two sons, William and John Larman; one daughter, Kathleen Larman; two brothers, Gerald Hodson, John Giles and one grandchild, James R. Larman.Graveside services will be held at 11 AM, on Monday March 2, at the Boyds Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 19901 White Ground Road, Boyds, MD.In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Dolly’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org/donate).

Robert Campbell Rossi died on February 2, 2019.  He was 76 years old.  He is survived by his wife, children and grand children who are achieving good things.  Foremost Bob Rossi was a man who enjoyed cooking family dinners.  Grace was always said.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 8th at St. Mary’s Parish and Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima located at 18230 Barnesville Road, Barnesville, Maryland 20838.  Burial will be in the church cemetery, followed by a reception in the St. Mary’s Pavilion.

A practicing Catholic, Bob Rossi was a Eucharistic Minister, Holy Name Society Secretary, Lector, Arimethean, and Cook at St. Mary’s Church.  He organized the dedication of the Veterans Memorial at St. Mary’s and seven Veterans Day observances.  He was President of the St. Martin’s Parish Council in Gaithersburg where he led fund raising for construction of its parochial school.  He was a member of the St. Paul’s Prayer Group in Damascus and a New Hope Job Search Counselor at St. Rose of Lima Church in Gaithersburg - all in Maryland.  Over the years he wrote hundreds of resumes helping unemployed people get jobs.

Bob Rossi organized the Mount Airy 9/11 Patriot Day ceremonies for five years.  During his four year leadership of the Toys for Tots campaigns in Mount Airy, 7,000 needy children received toys at Christmas.  He understood the motivating power of positive reinforcement so he created the Promising Young American and American Achiever Awards presented approximately 400 young people over several years.  He was the Historian and Chaplain of the American Legion Gold Star Post 191.  In 2012,  his three volume history of the post won the PDC Kenneth R. Hammer Memorial Trophy for best history out of 144 Maryland posts.  In 2013 he was made the first Honorary Citizen of Mount Airy, Maryland.

After the 9/11 attacks he joined the Marine Corps League and actively contributed his time, creativity and financial support for over 18 years.  He became a life member and officer in the Military Order of the Devil Dogs and author of its Valkery News.  In 2010 and 2015 he was named Pound and then Pack Devil Dog of the Year.  Bob Rossi was a life member of the Marine Corps League and served on the Honor Guard.  He was Commandant of the Robert W. Deane Detachment 770 during 2008 - 2010 and Historian of the Sgt. John F. Hettchen, Jr. Detachment 1428 from 2015.  In 2008 he was named the Deane Detachment Marine of the Year.  In 2017 he was awarded the Marine Corps League’s Distinguished Citizen Medal.  In 2018 he was appointed a national historian of the Marine Corps League.

Bob Rossi visited infirmed servicemen, the elderly, and scout units with his Honorary Lance Corporal Collies.  They welcomed home Veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.  He was a Montgomery County Election Judge and an Eagle Scout Mentor.   He was Chairman of the Marine Corps League’s Eagle Scouts Good Citizenship Awards Program in Maryland for 3 years in which 365 awards were conferred.  In 2018 he was inducted into the Royal Marines Association USA Branch.      

His business career was 63 years involving managerial and officer positions in nuclear energy (NUS Corporation), telecommunications (World Cell) and commercial real estate (Transwestern).   He held several highly classified national security clearances.  He was author of articles published by the:  Atomic Energy Commission, Edison Electric Institute, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Nuclear Information and Records Management Association and the Atomic Industrial Forum.  He began as a butcher’s apprentice.

Bob Rossi served on the Board of Directors of the Harvard Business School Club of Washington.  There he established the Elizabeth Plack Lecture Series.    He was a co-founder, charter member and board member of both the Project Management Institute and the Nuclear Information and Records Management Association.  He was an independent scholar of the American Historical Association and President of the Society for Advancement of Management in Washington.

He enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve.  After graduating from the 3rd Battalion Recruit Training Regiment at Parris Island in 1965, he served with the 4th Marine Air Wing, Marine Air Group 41 in jet attack squadrons VMA-132 and

VMF-321.  Sgt. Rossi was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps in 1971 cited for “Honest and Faithful Service” and recommended for re-enlistment.  

He was in the first graduating classes of St. Bernadette Parochial and Xaverian High Schools.  He earned a BBA from

St.  John’s University of New York.  His graduate work was at MIT, Georgetown, the Harvard School of Design and the Harvard Graduate School of Business.

Ruth I. Flohr, 82, of Poolesville, MD, passed peacefully on February 2, 2019.

She was the wife of the late Carroll R. Flohr.

Born on April 5, 1936, in Frederick, MD, she was the daughter of the late Muncie and Merle (Ernest) Flohr.

Surviving are four daughters, Holly Rippeon and husband Billy, Karen Benson and husband Chris, Vickie Haskins and husband Bobby, Carol Flohr; 14 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren.

Ruth was preceded in death by two daughters, Patti DiCarlantonio, Nina Gilmore; two sisters, Peggy Naill, Ruby Wolfe and one brother, Raymond Flora.

The family will be receiving friends on Tuesday February 5, from 5-8 PM, at the Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Rd. (Rt. 109), Barnesville, MD, where funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 6, at 11AM.

Interment will follow in Resthaven Memorial Gardens, Frederick.

John Ramsey Hunter, Jr, 76, of Beallsville, MD passed away on February 4, 2019, at home from a courageous 6 year battle with complications from metastatic colorectal cancer.

John was the loving husband to Jane S. Hunter of nearly 55 years.

Born on October 14, 1942, in Frederick, MD, he was the only child of the late John R. Hunter, Sr. (1999) and Sadie Dye (2007). He is also survived by his daughter; Anne L Hunter, Son; Jim R. Hunter of Barnesville, MD and a grandchild; Greer Hunter.

He was a life long resident of Beallsville, Montgomery County MD. and a grain farmer. In addition to his love of farming, he loved road trips and his motorcycle.

Family will receive friends on Friday, February 8 from 5-8 PM at Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Road, Barnesville, MD 20838, where a Memorial Service will be celebrated at 11 AM on Saturday, February 9.

In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made to Monocacy Cemetery, 19801 W Hunter Rd, Beallsville, MD 20839.

Barbara J. Ward, 84, of Barnesville, MD, died on February 9, 2019.

She was the wife of the late E. Charles Ward, Jr. who passed in 1989.

Born on August 27, 1934 in Dawsonsville, MD, Barbara was the daughter of the late Clarence L. and Laura Mae (Howard) Allnutt.

She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the St. Mary’s Ladies Sodality.

Surviving are two sons, C. Douglas Ward, Sr. and wife Debbie, David A. Ward and wife Robin; two sisters, Anna Corrales and Pat Williams; two brothers, Upton and James Allnutt; two grandchildren, Carrie A. Ward and C. Douglas Ward, Jr. and two great grandchildren, Gaven D. and Jaxon W. Williams.

Barbara was preceded in death by four sisters, Alice R. Burkett, Ruth Stup, Thelma V. Gartner and Edna M. Burdett and four brothers, Clarence “Buddy”, Jr., Robert E., John B. and Marshall W. Allnutt.

The family will be receiving friends on Wednesday, February 13, from 6-8 PM, at the Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Rd. (Rt. 109), Barnesville (hiltonfh.com).

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 AM, on Thursday, February 14, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 18230 Barnesville Rd., Barnesville.

Interment will follow in Monocacy Cemetery, Beallsville, MD.

In lieu of flowers the family suggest donations be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, P.O. Box 67, Barnesville, MD  20838 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org).

Katherine Michelle Zajdel, 39, passed away on February 11, 2019.  Born on April 1, 1979, she was the daughter of the Mary Sue Zajdel and the late Thomas James Zajdel of Poolesville, Maryland.  Katie was the loving mother to Mya Randolph.  She was the sister of Ann Marie Matlock, James Richard Zajdel, John Michael Zajdel, Joseph Thomas Zajdel and the late Michael Robert Zajdel. She was the aunt to eight nieces and nephews and had numerous cousins, aunts, uncles and other family members.   ​

Family will receive friends on Friday February 15, 2019 from 4-7 pm at Our Lady of the Presentation, Poolesville, Maryland, 20837.  A funeral mass will be held on Saturday February 16, 2019 at 11 am at Our Lady of the Presentation, Poolesville, Maryland 20837. 

Carolyn Fitzwater Freed, formerly of Frederick, MD, passed quietly on February 19,2019, at Potomac Valley Rehabilitation Health Center, Rockville, MD. She was the wife of the late Pastor Clyde H. Freed, Jr.Born May 9, 1942, in Boyds, MD, she was the daughter of the late Russell and Beulah Fitzwater. She graduated from Gaithersburg High School in 1961. After 23 years of government service, she resigned and joined her husband in full-time ministry. She served as a Lay Counselor for the Southern Baptist Convention for many years. She enjoyed playing the piano and organ and served as an organist for over 14 years.She is survived by her sister, Curry Harding of Indiana, and brothers David of Virginia;and Dennis and wife Joanie of Frederick, MD, step-sons Clyde H. Freed, III of Tennessee, Brian J. Freed and wife Trish of Germantown, MD. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and their children, and friends.She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and brothers, Willard, Kenneth,Upton, sisters Dessie Fitzwater, Velma (Betsy) Fraley, Geraldine Stark,Wilma Whitworth, and Una Harner.The family will be receiving friends on Friday, February 22, 2019, from 6-8 pm at the Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Rd. (Rt. 109), Barnesville, MD (hiltonfh.com),where funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 23, 2019, at 11 am.Interment will follow at Boyds Presbyterian Church, Boyds, MD. A reception will be held at the St. Mary’s Pavilion, 18230 Barnesville Road, Barnesville, MD.In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to VFW Post 3285, 5901 Old National Pike, Frederick, MD 21702.

Sharkey Edward Poole, Sr., 86, of Gaithersburg, MD, died on February 28, 2019 surrounded by his loving family.

Born June 21, 1932, in Gaithersburg, he was the son of the late John and Mildred (Fox) Poole.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and a member of the American Legion in Damascus, MD for 50 years.  Eddie served in the Korean War where he received the Occupation Medal (Japan), Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star, Korean Service Medal and the United Nations Service Medal.

Eddie was retired from Montgomery County Road Department after 26 years of service.  After retirement he went back to work with the road department for another 24 years.  In 2013, Eddie went to work for O'Connell & Lawrence, Inc. as a construction inspector until 2 years ago. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Bertha V. Poole; two daughters, Patty Kusmiskis and husband Richard of Gaithersburg, Pamela Oskandy and husband Bob of Florida; a daughter- in-law, Denise Poole of Mt. Airy, MD.; 7 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; one sister, Patsy Burdette of Florida and one brother, Ronald Poole of Damascus.  Eddie is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, Sharkey Edward Poole Jr.

Graveside services will be held at 11 AM, on Monday March 4, at the Boyds Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 19901 White Ground Road, Boyds, MD.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Disable Veterans (dav.org).