Diana W. Lott
1925-2023
Diana W. Lott passed peacefully away on the morning of May 10, 2023, at Homewood of Frederick.
Born in Kenora, Ontario on September 26, 1925, to Howard and Honore Wheeler.
She grew up in International Falls Minn., the coldest place in the US as she would regularly remind us.
Diane came to Washington, DC during WWII to work for the Navy Yard as a secretary. While in DC she met her future husband Don, a Navy boy from DC whom she married in 1946.
They settled in Clinton, Maryland where they raised their family and enjoyed a wonderful life.
The family enjoyed time at their cottage at White Point Beach in St. Mary’s County swimming and fishing. Traveling to new destinations in their trailer with their Lions Club family and close friends kept them busy. When Don retired, they moved to their winter home in Surf Side Beach, SC enjoying many years of new and old friendships.
In 2000 they became one of the first residents to move into the new apartments at Homewood at Crumland Farms. After Don passed, Diane spent many happy years volunteering and enjoying many new friendships.
Diane was predeceased by her husband L. Donald Lott in 2000. Her parents and her brother William Wheeler.
She is survived by daughter Kristine Wade (Chuck) of Frederick, son Jeffrey Lott (Jacqueline) of Charles Town, WV. Grandsons Jacob T. Moxon of Frederick and Dustin Lott (Amber) of Florida. Along with several nieces and nephews.
Services will be private and handled by Hilton Funeral Home. Interment will be at Trinity Memorial Gardens later.
The family is grateful for the care and community that Homewood provided our mother for the past twenty-three years. Special thanks to her caregivers during the time that she was in Assisted Living.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the Benevolent Fund of Homewood.7407 Willow Rd. Frederick, MD 21701.
M. Gene Bennett
1929-2023
M. Gene Bennett passed away on May 10, 2023, at his home in Poolesville, MD. Known for his distinctive handlebar mustache and no-nonsense approach, Gene epitomized a life well lived.
Born on December 27, 1929, in Anstead, WV, Gene was a wonderful Christmas gift to his parents Samuel and Florina. He was the youngest of six children and rounded out the numbers as the third son, joining his two brothers Jim and Ray and his three sisters Novella, Rosemary, and Beulah.
Gene met the love of his life at "Pat and Bert’s Lunch" in Ansted in 1947. He would stop by for a hot dog after working evenings at the Ritz Theatre. One night Patty, the daughter of Pat and Bert, intentionally short-changed Gene in hopes of him returning. They went on their first date two weeks later and married in 1950. Nearly sixty-nine years of marriage yielded three sons and enough wonderful memories together for multiple lifetimes.
Gene was a graduate of the West Virginia Institute of Technology and Catholic University, where he received his master’s degree. A lifelong educator, Gene taught in a one-room schoolhouse in Ramsey, WV, high school in Fairfax and Montgomery Counties, and for both the Army and OPM. A U.S. Army veteran, his service extended far beyond his military enlistment. Gene was active in Scouting, the Town of Poolesville, the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE), and Montgomery County Public Schools.
His Christian faith served as the foundation for all aspects of Gene’s life. He was an active member of First Baptist Church of Rockville for twenty-five years and later of both Poolesville and Barnesville Baptist Churches. Gene participated in multiple mission trips, including a trip to Haiti. He was a Deacon, Sunday School Director and teacher, Trustee, and Outreach Director and was dedicated to sharing the good word with others.
After his retirement from the U.S. Government in 1986, Gene filled his days traveling with Patty in an Airstream where he made lifelong friends across the country. Gene was a Master Mason and a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was the founder of the 2x4 Square Dancing Club in Poolesville, a line dancing instructor, and a talented musician, playing Bluegrass and Gospel music on the mandolin and guitar.
Gene was proceeded in death by his parents and his siblings. He is survived by his three devoted sons Greg (Elsa), Brian (Heather), and Brad (Chrystal), four grandsons, one granddaughter, and five great-grandchildren. In addition to his family, Gene will be profoundly missed by the many people whose lives he impacted and his loyal canine companion, Angie, the beagle.
Memorial contributions may be made in Gene’s name to Montgomery Hospice (https://montgomeryhospice.org/giving/ways-to-give/) or the Montgomery County SPCA (https://montgomerycountyspca.org/donate/#donation-options). Services will be private.
Patricia A. Ferris
2023
Patricia A. Ferris, age 89, of Dickerson died on May 17, 2023.
She was the wife of Charles “Wes” Ferris who died in 1991.
Pat was an active member of the Poolesville Community, including the Women of St. Peters, Truth and Hope, the Girl Scouts, the Friendly Thrift Shop, and the IOOF. For many years Pat could be found in the classrooms, cafeterias and offices at Poolesville elementary, Monocacy elementary, and Poolesville High school. “Coach” helped lead Camp Sunshine in Boyds Md for many summers and found much joy in her time with Girl Scouts. Pat dearly loved her friends and serving and helping others.
She is survived by her children- Susan, Sandra (Ted), Stephanie, and Samantha (Rob); 14 grandchildren and several great grandchildren; brother Richard (Becky) and sister Nancy (Earl), sister in law Joan, three nieces and five nephews.A celebration of life will be held on May 22 at 3 PM at Deere Valley Farm at 22919 Dickerson Rd in Dickerson. In Lieu of flowers we ask that donations be made to Hospice of Montgomery & PG County or the Monocacy cemetery in Beallsville. The family would like thank Hospice for their tremendous support and Mom’s caregiver Harriet who’s love and care of mom was immeasurable.
Madison F. Loucks-Lenz
2023
We are devastatingly saddened to announce Madison F. Loucks-Lenz, of Frederick, Maryland, passed away on May 27, 2023. Madison is survived by her husband Rob Lenz, her parents Joshua Loucks and Patricia Copenhaver, her stepfather William (Bill) Copenhaver, loving siblings Will Copenhaver, Paige Copenhaver and Davis Copenhaver, Father & Mother-in-Law, Dale and Pam Lenz and Brother-in-Law Thomas (Tommy) Lenz.
Madison was a true force and “bright light” in this world, through her love and caring of her friends and family, her humor, creativity, and her commitment to making the world a better place. At her young age, she was a true trailblazer with her passion for children, raising cattle and farming. She was undoubtedly a role model and would have been a role model for young women.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, June 7th at Darnestown Presbyterian Church, 15120 Turkey Foot Road Gaithersburg, MD 20878. The memorial service will be followed by a Celebration of Life reception for family and friends at Paul and Susan Kohler’s home, located at 12208 Drews Court Potomac, Maryland. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be made in memory of Madison Loucks-Lenz to the Frederick County EAC (Extension Advisory Council). Checks may be mailed to: Frederick County Extension Attention 4-H 330 Montevue Lane Frederick, MD 21702.
Jo-Ann Arlene Patti
1969-2022
Jo-Ann Arlene Patti (Arlene), 52 of Gaithersburg, Maryland returned home to the Lord on Mothers’ Day, Sunday, May 8th, 2022, after succumbing to COVID at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital in nearby Rockville.
Born in York, Ontario, Canada just outside of Toronto, Arlene grew up in Ventura, California surrounded by surf, sun and orange groves. At an early age, she attended Saint Paul’s Episcopal School, where she developed her skills in piano and ballet, eventually performing the lead role in the ballet "Peter and the Wolf.”
She attended high school at Cate School on the mesa in Santa Barbara County, where she excelled at piano, drama, track and soccer. Nicknamed, “Gnarly Arly,” she played sweeper on defense, helping her team to reach the CIF playoffs in her Senior year. She also choreographed, sung and danced in Cate’s performance of "Guys and Dolls."
After earning her bachelors degree in Textile Sciences and Apparel from Cornell University, she returned to California where she met her future husband Don while working on former Oxnard Mayor Nao Takasugi’s campaign for State Assembly. The two married at Mission San Buenaventura in 1995 and then earned their MBA’s from the RH Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland, settling in the nearby area.
Her career included an Office Manager role for Nao Takasugi’s State Assembly office, a five-year stint as a Marketing Manager with Intuit, and four years as an Office Manager helping grow the family business, Intrev, while she raised her son Casey.
Her favorite position, by far, was as the Office Manager at Saint Martin of Tours Catholic School in Gaithersburg. Arlene loved to juggle the many activities necessary to keep the school operating smoothly, to visit with the many young faces who stopped by her desk, and to pass time with her friends and co-workers along the way.
A fan of animated movies, she loved watching Studio Ghibli and superhero movies with her kids, and often passed her time reading manga. She also enjoyed nurturing her two children, Casey (21) and Katelyn (14), as they matured into fine young adults. Arlene was also a parishioner at Saint Mary’s Parish and Shrine in Barnesville, where she, her two children and husband, Don, loved attending mass.
She is survived by her two children, Casey and Katelyn; her husband, Donald (DP); her father, Erle Andrew Pearson; her mother, Alma Petronella Pearson; her brother Erle Andrew “Uncle Drew" Pearson II; her brother, Mark Adrian “Big Uncle” Pearson; her mother-in-law Peggy Patti; her sister-in-law, Sarah Molina Pearson; her brother-in-law, Michael Joseph Patti; her brother-in-law, James Edward Patti; her nephew, Mason Pearson; and her niece, Giovanna Pearson.
A visitation will be held for Arlene at Saint Mary’s Parish and Shrine, 18230 Barnesville Road in Barnesville, Maryland on Thursday, May 19, 2022 from 6 to 8PM ET. A burial mass will occur the next day, Friday, May 20 at 11AM at Saint Mary’s, followed by a luncheon in the church’s Father Reid Pavilion. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to the funeral, which will be held in front of the outdoor altar, weather permitting.
All should wear purple.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the “Arlene Patti Memorial Scholarship” by mailing a check to Saint Martin of Tours School, 115 S Frederick Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20877 (mention “Arlene Patti” in the memo line); or, by donating via FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/donate/1948544405331482/ through June 30, 2022.
Leonard "Stu" Dale Stuart
1936-2022
Leonard “Stu” Dale Stuart, 86, of Boyds, MD, passed away peacefully at his home on May 9, 2022.
Stu was the loving husband to Helga E. Solomon for thirty years.
Born on March 7, 1936 in Iowa, he was the son to the late Raymond J. and Gladys (Hutt) Stuart.
Along with his wife, Stu was survived by two beloved step-sons, Steven Solomon (Robin) and Mark Solomon (Janet); two children from his first wife, his daughter Suzanne Stevens (Pat) and his son Charles Stuart (Kathy); eight grandchildren, Hannah, Emma, Delaney, Riley, Jessica, Stephanie, Charlotte, Olivia; and numerous nephews and nieces in Iowa.
Stu was preceded in death by his first wife, Elizabeth Stuart.
In his younger days, Stu served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, and he worked for thirty years at the National Institutes of Health Animal Center research facility in Poolesville before retiring. In his retirement, Stu loved spending time with his grandchildren and being outdoors.
Frank J. Austin
1939-2022
Frank J. Austin, 83, of Poolesville, MD, passed away on May 10, 2022.
Frank was the loving husband to Louise E. Austin.
Born on February 11, 1939 in Camden, NJ, he was the son of Winfield Earl and Rachel Ann (Cahill) Austin.
Along with his wife, Frank was survived by his daughter; Michele L. Elg (Michael) of Texas, his son; Michael Francis Austin of Poolesville, MD, one brother; Ronald Austin of New Jersey, six grandchildren; and one god-child.
Frank was a man of many titles. He was known by many in his career: Journeyman, Project Lead, and Systems Engineer are just a few. His community knew him by many more: Sir Knight, Lion, Member, Parishioner. To those close to him, he was even more than any of those titles. Neighbor. Friend. Grandfather. Father. Husband. He met his lifelong love Louise in his teenage years, with whom he was together for 63 years, and married for 58.
The family will be receiving friends from 10:00-11:00 AM on Monday, May 16th at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 18230 Barnesville Road, Barnesville, MD where a Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM.
Interment to follow in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in his memory to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, P.O. Box 67, Barnesville, MD 20838.
Gottras A. Wise
1951-2022
Gottras A. Wise, 70, of Poolesville, MD, passed away on May 21, 2022.
Gottras was the loving husband to Carrie Eskridge-Wise.
Born on July 4, 1951 in Arkansas, he was the son to Gottras Lee and Beulah Lee (Hill) Wise.
Along with his wife Carrie, Gottras was survived by his children; Tonja Orso, Dexter Wise, Shanay Wise, brothers; Jyrl Wise, Garland Wise, Joseph Thorne, sisters; Lenora Wise, Mary Thorne and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.
A celebration of life will be held from 10:00 AM- Noon on Saturday, June 4, 2022 at Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Road, Barnesville, MD.
Lisa Joyce Bain
1967-2022
Lisa Joyce Bain, 54, of Germantown, MD, passed away on May 25, 2022.
Born on August 8, 1967 in Ottawa, Canada, she was the daughter of Peter Randall and Joyce Marilyn (Austen) Bain.
Along with her parents, Lisa is survived by her children; Spencer P. DesRoches, Bailey M. DesRoches, one brother; Michael P. Bain and her life partner; William F. Harral.
Lisa was an active member of her community. She was a front desk secretary and pickleball coach at Lakelands Park Middle School, a member of the Capital Rowing Club, Fleet Feet Running Club of Gaithersburg, Kiwanis Club, and the Journey’s Crossing Church of Germantown.
The family will be holding a memorial service at 3:00 PM on June 24th at Journey’s Crossing Church, 12900 Cloverleaf Center Drive Suite A, Germantown, MD 20874, followed by a celebration of life reception at 4:00 PM at Black Hill Regional Park, 20930 Lake Ridge Dr, Boyds, MD 20841, Pavilion C.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in Lisa’s memory to any animal rescue, mental health, or suicide prevention organization.
James D. King
1943-2021
It is with deepest sorrow that we advise you of the death of our Father James D. King, on Saturday, May 01, 2021, at his home in Clarksburg with his children by his bedside.
Born in Washington, D.C., Jim grew up in Montgomery County, MD. He attended Northwood High School in Silver Spring in the 1960s. After high school he enlisted in the United States Navy and served on the USS Saratoga during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
After Jim completed his service in the Navy, he attended The University of Maryland and graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Criminology and Sociology. He joined the Montgomery County Police Department in 1968 and served in the patrol division, the Traffic Squad and as a Detective. It was while serving as a property crime detective that he was assigned to investigate and eventually help solve what became a large number of residential burglaries committed by a criminal nicknamed "the obituary burglar". Amongst the many other crimes he committed, this individual would read the obituaries of his victims published in local newspapers and then burglarize their homes while they were vacant during the funeral services.
After retiring from his career with the police department, Jim fulfilled his lifetime goal of becoming an author. One of his proudest accomplishments was co-writing and publishing a book about a case he was involved in with "the obituary burglar" in the 1970s. The book is called Ghost Burglar. In 2013 the Independent Publisher Book Award's committee presented Jim and his co-author the bronze medal in the True Crime category for their work.
From his work on various property crimes, Jim developed an interest in antiques and art theft. After extensive research, he wrote several articles for the International Archive of Art and Antique Theft. This research, combined with his work on the "obituary burglar" case, led him to help write and champion a Montgomery County law that required sellers of precious metals and antiques to produce identification and the buyers to report the purchases to the police. This law became the model on which a Maryland state law was based, on behalf of which King was called on by the Maryland State Legislature to testify.
Jim is survived by his two children Amanda King and Dan King. His wife, Joanna passed away in 2005 and his daughter, Deanna passed away in 1980. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Montgomery County Police Alumni Association, Inc., Benevolent Fund, P. O. Box 291, Damascus, MD 20872-0431 or to The Kensington Volunteer Fire Department, 10620 Connecticut Ave, Kensington, MD 20895 in James King’s name.
Condolences may be sent to 15800 Comus Road, Clarksburg, MD, 20871.
Jim's wishes were that he be cremated with no memorial service. However, due to Covid-19 restrictions there will be a celebration of life gathering at a later date.
Phillip D. Giarth
1957-2021
Phillip D. Giarth, 64, of Poolesville, MD, passed away on May 3, 2021 at home.
He was the loving husband to Cheryl Kenly.
Born on April 27, 1957, in Washington, D.C., he was the son of the late George Albert Jr. and Shirley Ann (Deffer) Giarth.
Along with his wife, Phillip is survived by his four children; Phillip Arthur Giarth, wife, Ly Vu of Miami, FL, Heather Marie Giarth of Miami, FL, Melissa Ann Armenta, husband, Jorge of Cottonwood Heights, UT, Danni Baird of CA, four grandchildren; Veronica, Nicolas, Charles, Riley, one sister; Nina Rejonis, husband, Gary of Smithburg, MD, six nieces; Hollie Rejonis, husband, Clifford, Carrie Rejonis, Lorrie Rejonis Trader, husband, Dave, Carley Kenly, Jennifer Van Gilder, Emily McConaughey, four nephews; Connor Kenly, Cody Kenly, Brian Van Gilder, Christian Rejonis, and thirteen great-nieces and nephews; Brenton, Samantha, Dalton, Cameron, Carson, Mackenzie, Braxton, Cason, Ristynn, Brantley, Renee, Liam, Corbin. And his loving dogs Memphis, Faith, Hope and Chase.
Phillip was a member of the NRA, Elks Lodge, Izaak Walton, Nascar, Twin Cedar Hunt Club, Rappahannock River Retriever Club and the Bass Pro Club.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in his memory to the Cancer Society
Phillip will lay to rest at a private ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.
Samuel Peter Tom, Jr.
1962-2021
Samuel Peter Tom, Jr., 58, of Monrovia, Maryland, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2021 with his family by his side.
He was the loving husband to Jennifer Tom. They were married on May 25, 1991.
Born on May 9, 1962 in Fairchance, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Samuel Peter, Sr. and the late Pauline Leilamae (Long) Tom. Sam served six years in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard as an Infantry Medic, and 20 years in the United States Navy, ending his career as a First Class Petty Officer.
Along with his wife, Sam is survived by his two children; Samuel Peter Tom, III, Heather Marie Tom, two brothers; Louis Tom and wife Carol, Michael Tom and wife Barbara, four sisters; Patti Socling and husband Dennis, Peggy Varto, Pamela Elwell and husband Michael, Paula Branthoover and husband Alvin, numerous nieces and nephews and many friends. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by brother-in-law Stephen Varto.
Sam loved the Pittsburgh Steelers, golfing, and most of all spending time with friends and family. He was passionate about hunting and fishing, which he shared with his son, brothers, nephews, and friends. He also enjoyed hosting and cooking for the Tom Family Annual Labor Day Party.
The family will be receiving friends on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Road, Barnesville, Maryland 20838. A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at 11:00 AM at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church, 4103 Prices Distillery Rd, Ijamsville, Maryland 21754 where a graveside service will follow at All Souls Cemetery, 11401 Brink Rd, Germantown, Maryland 20876.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to Fisher House Foundation or Donate Life America
Brent A. Johnson
1982-2021
Brent A. Johnson, 38, of Germantown, MD, passed away on May 14, 2021.
Born on May 25, 1982 in Rockville, Maryland, he was the son to Gary W. and Janet M. (Sprinkle) Johnson.
Along with his parents, Brent is survived by his brother; Bryan C. Johnson, fiancé; Crystal Ferrell, grandmothers; Lois Sprinkle, Alice M. Stanton, three uncles; Joseph Stanton, Joseph (Jack) Sprinkle, Jr., Michael Sprinkle, two aunts; Kimberly Stanton, Lynn Sprinkle and numerous Cousins, Nieces and Nephews.
Brent was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, loved to hunt and fish in his spare time and was an avid Redskins fan.
The family will be receiving friends on Thursday, May 20th from 6:00-8:00 PM at Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Road, Barnesville, MD. A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 21st at 11:00 AM at Boyds Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 19901 White Ground Rd, Boyds, MD 20841.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in his memory to Operation Second Chance, 20251 Century Blvd, Ste 130 Germantown, MD 20874, https://operationsecondchance.org/donate-now/.
Dr. R. Thomas Walker, Jr.
1936-2021
Dr. R. Thomas Walker, Jr., 84, of Boyds, MD, passed away on May 29, 2021 at home.
He was the loving husband to Kathleen East Walker.
Born October 28, 1936 in Washington, D.C., he was the son of the late Robert Thomas and Margaret Virginia Muehlhauser Walker.
Along with his wife, Tom is survived by his three children: Allison Walker Fiore, husband Stephen of Orlando, FL, Kate Walker De Mattos, husband Herbert of Boyds, MD, Matthew Walker of Warrenton, VA, two sisters; Ellen Carr of Ellicott City, MD, Merrellyn Fields of Jessup, MD, brother-in-law; E. William Fields, and five grandchildren; Alexis East Fiore, Lia Marie Fiore, Caelan Thomas Connolly, Liam Walker Connolly and Ryan Hendry Walker..
Tom graduated from Montgomery Blair High School in 1954 where he made lifelong friends while playing football. Tom, along with several of “The Buds,” went on to play football for Montgomery College, and their successes earned them admission into the Montgomery College Athletic Hall of Fame. Tom was inducted twice; once as an individual and then as a member of the only Montgomery College football team to win a bowl game.
From MC Tom attended George Washington University before settling on Hiram College where he majored in History, played football and met his future wife, Kathleen East.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in History from Hiram, Tom entered the Army and was assigned to Military Intelligence and stationed in Germany. His tour in Germany further enhanced his love of German history, culture and language.
Upon returning to the U.S. Tom married Kathleen, and they moved to Columbus, Ohio where Tom entered graduate school. He earned his doctoral degree in German military history from the Ohio State University, and added to his group of lifelong friends.
Having attended Montgomery College, it was always Tom’s ambition to return to MC as a professor. He started his career at the Takoma Park campus and then became a founding faculty member of the Germantown Campus. In his 30 year career as a professor, Tom inspired thousands of students, and fulfilled his mission of supporting students as they embarked upon their collegiate and career goals.
However, his love of learning and teaching made the most profound impact on his children. Allison is an elementary school Art teacher, her husband Steve is a Professor at University of Central Florida, Kate teaches ESOL for Montgomery County Public Schools and Matthew has a Ph.D. in U.S. Foreign Relations and International History from the University of Nebraska.
Tom was a member of the Sugarloaf Congregation of Unitarian Universalists.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the “Montgomery College Foundation.” On the memo line, write “R. Thomas Walker Athletic Endowed Scholarship for the Humanities,” and mail to Montgomery College Foundation, 9221 Corporate Blvd, Rockville, MD 20850. To make a secure online donation, please visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/onlinegiving and, when prompted, write in “R. Thomas Walker Athletic Endowed Scholarship for the Humanities.”
He will always be remembered for his warm hospitality, his friendly demeanor, his humor and his intellectual contributions to any conversation.
Mary Chirigos
1927-2020
Mary Chirigos, age 92, died on Sunday morning, May 10, 2020 in Casey House, a Montgomery County Hospice facility. Her memorial service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery when she will be interred with her husband Dr. Michael Chirigos, at a date to be determined.
Mary was a vivacious, outgoing volunteer and philanthropist, and dedicated her life to supporting her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchild. Mary was a patient advocate volunteer at Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, following the death of her husband, Dr. Mike Chirigos in 2007 through 2019. She earned the respect and the love of all the volunteers and patients at Suburban and was blessed to receive her final care there following her stroke on April 28, 2020, as well as at Casey House for compassionate care in her final days on this earth. Mary was a founding member of the St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Bethesda, Maryland, and was the first President of the Ladies Philoptochos at St. George. Along with the other founding members, she helped to organize the church, and school on the existing property and later built the church and the N.I.H. Kollecas House for families of patients at the N.I.H. These services to her community were dear to Mary’s heart. Mary was a gourmet chef, an avid reader, competitive bridge player and social to her core. She enjoyed her many travels around the world with her husband and developed life-long friends in other countries, serving as a godmother in Japan and in Germany.
Mary was born in Wilmington, Delaware on November 1, 1927 to Eleftherios Lazopoulos and Fevronia Evlombiadis Lazopoulos. Mary was predeceased by her beloved son Michael Anthony Chirigos, Jr. on August 15, 1995, and her devoted husband, Dr. Michael Anthony Chirigos on June 9, 2007. Mary is survived by her daughters, Nia Chirigos Cresham and son-in-law John Cresham, and Melanie Ann Dahlen and son-in-law Garth Dahlen, and daughter-in-law Patrice Chirigos Kelly. Mary adored her many grandchildren, Alia Cresham Hensel and grandson-in-law Ben Hensel and great-grandson Jack Hensel; grandsons and granddaughters, John Thomas Cresham, Michael Anthony Cresham, Marisa Fevronia Cresham, Christopher Ryker Chirigos and granddaughter-in-law Gillian, Deanna Nicole Chirigos, Shelby Ann Dahlen, Allyson Sarah Dahlen and Maxwell Todd Dahlen.
Mary’s zest for life and genuine interest in all of those around her will be missed and admired by her family and friends. We thank Brightview West End for her enjoyable last few years there, Suburban Hospital for their attention and care for her, and Casey House for their compassionate care in her last days. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to the Disabled American Veterans Fund or the Fisher House Foundation.
Arrangements were made by Hilton Funeral Home.
Marian Mae (Luck) Belt
1931-2020
Marian Mae (Luck) Belt (88), of Dickerson, MD, peacefully passed on Wednesday May 13, 2020 in her home, surrounded by her daughters. She was preceded in death by her husband, Allen K. Belt (2015), and her only son, Benjamin Belt (1976).
Marian was a beloved matriarch and a true caregiver to her family and community. She could be found sewing for her children and grandchildren or cooking and serving anyone who made their way to her table at lunchtime. She rejoiced in the Lord as part of her church choir and basked in His glory in the warmth of the summer sun. If she wasn’t bringing sweet tea to the fields, she was mowing them herself. She could find a four-leaf clover looking for a bolt dropped in the grass. Though she was one lucky lady, it was her family who felt the fortune of her love.
She is survived by one brother, Albert Luck and three daughters, Brenda Belt of Barnesville, MD, Debra (Michael) Benson of Dickerson, MD, and Sandy (Donn) Ward of Sharpsburg, Georgia. She leaves behind grandchildren, Kelly Haga, Rick Kimmel, Joe Kimmel, Jamie Krute, Andrew Benson, Janet O’Meara, and Jenna Buehler, along with ten, precious great-grandchildren.
A private service will be held in celebration of Marian’s life.
Remus Hungerford
1939-2020
Remus Hungerford passed peacefully in his home on May 15, 2020, with his wife and family at his side.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Hungerford, his brother Charles Edward Hungerford, and his three children, Peggy Sue Bancroft, Mark Hungerford, and Matthew Hungerford, 10 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Earva Mathias Hungerford and father, James Thomas Hungerford, and three children, Walter Remus Hungerford, Jr., Dewayne Hungerford, and Wayne Hungerford, his sister, Betty Lou Hungerford, and three brothers, Roger Hungerford, James “Gordon” Hungerford, and Allen Hungerford, and grandsons, Brandon Hungerford and Michael Bancroft, and granddaughter Janice Bancroft.
“Remus” is known for his exceptional hard work ethic, innovation, resourcefulness, and fair business practices. Remus was a self-made man. At a young age, Remus, with his independent and entrepreneurial spirit, taught himself many skills which led him to become a successful businessman. As an example, he taught himself how to operate a bulldozer at 12 years of age. In 1951, Remus, and his brothers worked at their father’s sawmill, Hungerford Mill. They subsequently opened two additional sawmills. In 1958, Remus opened Hungerford Brothers Excavation, Inc., expanding his business operations. In 2002, he opened Remus Hungerford Company, Inc. providing sawmill and excavation services, and business rental sites. He built his first home on Black Rock Road in Germantown, Maryland and two subsequent homes in Boyds, Maryland. At 67 years of age, he laid the brick for his final home.
To all those who were a part of his life, we are grateful to you and thank you for being a part of his life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children.
Services to be held after COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
Gary R. Riley
1946-2020
Gary R. Riley, 73, of Germantown, MD, passed away on May 22, 2020 at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C.
Beloved husband of 45 years with Sharon S. Riley, he was born on July 4, 1946 in Clarksburg, WV, to the late Linger Robert Riley and Christine Virginia Riley.
Along with his wife, Gary is survived by his daughter Amy M. Saus of Alliance, OH and her spouse Jerry Saus; his son Andrew P. Riley of Germantown, MD and his spouse Angelica Harris; one grandchild, Aiden W.E. Riley of Germantown, MD; one sister, Rebecca J. Riley of Morgantown, WV, and his much loved extended family Angie McIntyre and Shawn Griffin of Germantown, MD.
Gary graduated from West Virginia University, was a member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity, and an avid WVU Mountaineers fan and a New York Yankees superfan.
Gary had a passion for playing, watching, and participating in anything golf related, especially with his favorite golf partner, his son, Andrew. Gary was equally passionate about listening to music, especially Rock and Roll.
Gary worked in the financial industry for most of his adult life, until he found his retirement job in 2005 at TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm in Potomac, MD. This is where Gary combined his love for the game of golf with the opportunity to work in an idyllic outdoor setting and solidified making his best friends for life.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association.
Joe Chmelik
1930-2020
A great man died Memorial Day weekend on the Catholic Church Feast of the Ascension of Jesus Christ.
“Joe” will be fondly remembered not as a celebrity entertainer although he could spin wonderful stories, or a noted politician although he could illuminate current issues with common sense; but as a loving husband, exemplary father, enthusiastic home-schooling grandfather, wholehearted Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus, commendable golfer, zealous lifelong learner, proud Marine and dedicated patriot.
Joe Chmelik, 89, lived his life with a strong Catholic faith, alongside his wife, Pat, of 62 years rearing, directing, educating and loving his close-knit family.
Born in Oak Park, Illinois, on June 28, 1930 to Arthur Francis and Belle Chmelik, Joe was one of three children in a home of faith and hard work and love during the Depression.
A 1955 U.S. Naval Academy graduate with a major in Electrical Engineering, Joe served 20 years as a Marine including two tours of Vietnam as an infantry officer. As a captain with the 3rd Marine Division he was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor. At great personal risk he participated in numerous reconnaissance patrols to gather intelligence information on hostile forces confronting his unit which minimized casualties in the assigned mission. Once stateside and while on active duty he earned a MBA (Accounting) from University of Chicago and a MPA (Computer Sciences) from American Univ. Later, he served for 18 years at the Smithsonian Institution and retired in 1993 as the business manager.
Survivors include: wife, Patricia Ann; daughter, Rosemarie (Gregory) Kinney; and sons, William (Lee Ann), James (Colleen), Joseph (Julie, deceased), Thomas (JillJoyce), Edward (Kelly), Anthony (Rebecca); 37 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren.
Viewing is from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday June 5, 2020, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Barnesville, MD.
Mass of Christian burial will be held at the outdoor altar at 11 a.m. on June 6, 2020, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Barnesville, MD.
George “Ashley” Gray
1971-2020
George “Ashley” Gray, 48, of Venice, FL, passed on May 27, 2020, as a result of a motorcycle accident near Woodsboro, MD.
Born on June 7, 1971 in Washington, DC, he was the son to Mason W. Gray IV and the late, Hannah Tyson Lee Sharp Gray.
Along with this father, Ashley leaves behind his 13- year old son, Tyson Maddox Gray; mother to his son, Tracy Cavalier; two brothers, Mason W. Gray V and wife Jackie of Frederick, MD, Charlton Benjamin Gray and wife Susie of Fairfield, PA; his uncle, George T. Sharp, Jr. and wife Joan of New Mexico; Uncle and Aunt, James (Jake) and Letitia Jacobsen of Buckeystown, MD; Jane Gray Peters and husband Jim of Georgetown, DE; Elizabeth Dean Gray Wroth and husband Ted of Pawleys Island, SC and numerous nieces and nephews.
Ashley was a talented artist and sculptor. He created beautiful birds carved from wood and then he would paint them with precision and style which gave them the “life like” quality of realism. The birds he would create seemed as though they could just “fly off”.
His talent coupled with an effervescent personality made him a star to behold and a bright light which illuminated and buoyed the spirits of all who knew him. Ashley always said of his many artistic creations, “It is not my work, it is God’s work, I am the lucky one because he does it through my hands.”
Ashley was driven, hardworking, honest and honorable. He had a good, loving heart and will be missed deeply. Like his bird creations appeared to have the ability to fly, his spirit has flown to his heavenly perch.
Memorial service will be held at Hilton Funeral Home in Barnesville as soon as our crisis situation has abated.
In lieu of flowers the family has set up a savings account for Ashley's son, Tyson, that will be maintained by Woodsboro Bank. Contributions may be mailed to Mason W. Gray, IV, 11 Rosewood Ct, Unit 207, Woodsboro, MD 21798. Mason will be acting as custodian of the account. Make check payable to Mason W. Gray, IV.
Lana Joanne Ragazinsky
1943-2019
Lana Joanne Ragazinsky, 75, long-time resident of Poolesville, MD, passed away on May 18, 2019.
Lana was a retired consumer safety officer with the Food and Drug Administration.
Born on June 9, 1943, in Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late David and Ruth Irvin. Lana is survived by her two sons; Leonard Ragazinsky, Barry Ragazinsky; one grandson, Brad Ragazinsky; one sister, Patricia Cicioni and numerous nieces and nephews.
Lana’s request was to have no services.
Robert D. Raver
1932-2019
Robert D. Raver, 86, of Dickerson, MD, passed away on May 21, 2019 at Holy Cross Hospital in Germantown, MD.
Born on August 16, 1932 in Upperco, MD, he was the beloved son of the late F. Eugene Raver, Sr. and Hazel Larue Alban Raver.
Bob was a 1953 graduate of Hampstead High School and a 1957 graduate of the University of Maryland. He was a member of the Terrapins wrestling team which won the Southern Conference championship in 1952. He had a passion for singing and won a radio talent contest in 1935 at the age of three.
Growing up on the family farm, Bob developed an interest in raising cattle and gardening, winning first place at the Maryland 4-H Fair with his first steer “Roscoe” in 1947. He served his country in the Army Reserves in 1958, just after beginning his career as an Extension Agent for the Agricultural Services in Montgomery County in 1957. Bob retired from the Extension Service in 1987.
In 1960, he travelled to Edinburgh, Scotland as a chaperone for the 4-H Dairy Judging Team. He was a world traveler and visited Africa more than fifty times with his good friend Paul Canham. Bob was well-known for growing Iris flowers at his home and had over 500 varieties, some of which were hybrids developed by him. Amazingly he knew all of their botanical names. Bob was named “Man of the Year” in 1990 for introducing no-till crop production to Maryland farmers in the 1960’s. He was inducted into the Montgomery Agriculture Hall of Fame in 2011, and in 2017, was recognized for more than thirty years of volunteer service to the Montgomery County Fair. In 2018 Bob was honored for fifty years of no-tillage agriculture in Montgomery County.
He is survived by sisters Helen Lee Matthews of Hampstead, MD, Gail Buckler of Dover, DE, Joy (Sterling) Martin of Shrewsbury, PA; one brother Carlos E. Raver of Hampstead, MD and numerous nieces and nephews.
Bob is also survived by a dear friend Lou Gloyd, special neighbors Connie and Jerry Stine and caregivers Calvin Nyakairu and Mary Mbugua.
Bob was preceded in death by brothers Donald, Eugene and Thomas Raver and sister Janice Raver, as well as sisters-in-law Beverly Raver, Shirley Raver and Dottie Raver.
A Celebration Life Luncheon will be held on Saturday June 29, 2019 in the Heritage Building at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 16 Chestnut Street, Gaithersburg, MD 20877 from 12:00-4:00 PM. Please RSVP to Sally at tmanride@hotmail.com by June 21, 2019.
If desired, contributions can be made to The Wounded Warrior Project in his name.
Inurnment will be private.
Arrangements are by Hilton Funeral Home, Barnesville, MD (hiltonfh.com).
Ola Mae Moore
1932-2019
Ola Mae Moore, 86, of Barnesville, MD, formerly of Winter Springs, FL, died peacefully surrounded by family on May 22, 2019.
She was the wife of Cortland W. Moore.
Born on July 31, 1932, in Johnson City, TN, she was the daughter of the late William Algae and Minnie Mae (Johnson) Covey.
Ola was a pastor with the Salvation Army and a member of the Barnesville Baptist Church.
Surviving besides her husband are three children, Daniel Myron Moore, Joy Rebecca Deaver, Josephine Kauer; 9 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by two children; Gloria Moore Leibbrandt, Deborah Kay Budwig; one sister, Mary Sparks and two brothers, William and James Covey.
A celebration of Ola’s life will be held at 11 AM, on Saturday July 13, at the Barnesville Baptist Church, 17917 Barnesville Road, Barnesville.
Arrangements by Hilton Funeral Home, Barnesville.
William "Bill" LaRue
1940-2019
Bill LaRue of Frederick, MD, died peacefully in his home May 23rd after a long illness.
Born on September 6, 1940, in Washington, DC, he was the son of Lorraine Short and Dorothy (Fox) LaRue.
Bill grew up in Comus, MD and attended school in Poolesville, MD. He graduated from Poolesville High School in 1959 and joined the U.S. Army. After leaving the Army he worked for Bell Telephone in Washington, DC and Maryland. Later he worked several years for the U.S. Postal Service.
Bill enjoyed building and repairing motorcycles and was a dedicated fan of crossword puzzles. He was active and helpful in the resident community where he lived at the Catoctin View Apartments.
Bill is survived by one son, William; grandsons, Jack, Harry and Ben and his brother and sister-in-law, Joseph and Alison Spates.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date.
Arrangements by Hilton Funeral Home, Barnesville, MD (hiltonfh.com).
Michael DeJesus
1932-2019
Michael DeJesus passed away early Sunday morning, 26 May 2019, in his home in Germantown Maryland after battling IPF.
He was born July 18 1932, in Brooklyn New York, the son of Moises and Natividad DeJesus. He had one brother, Alexander, and three sisters, Cora, Elsie and Sylvia. He is survived by his four children, Michael, Carl, Michele and Ada Jean, and their mother, Ada Ubinas; ten grandchildren, Nathan, Morgan, Dallas, Devon, Alana, Autumn, Melodie, Lillian, Ava and Michael; and one Great-grandchild Nathaniel. He was also survived by cousins, nieces, nephews and innumerable friends who loved him deeply.
He grew up in Brooklyn New York, he graduated from CCNY/Brooklyn College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering and obtained a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from NYU. He was a Professor at State University of New York (SUNY). He served in the US Army during the Korean War from 1953 -1955; he was in the Signal Corp working with Comms in Japan. He took great pride in serving his country. He enjoyed his work as an engineer and took great satisfaction making a difference in his field whether it was working, teaching, tutoring or research.
He cherished his family and friends; he always did what he could to support them. He was known for his dry sense of humor and telling stories which always put a smile on your face. He was known to his grandchildren, family and friends as “Papa”. He loved old movies, baseball, coin collecting, and being with family and friends.
His children will be receiving family and friends Saturday June 1st from 4-6 PM at the Hilton Funeral Home, 22111 Beallsville Rd. (Rt. 109), Barnesville, MD. Reception to follow at Michael DeJesus, 13908 Shaeffer Rd, Germantown Md.
Donations in lieu of flowers to IEEE, Presidential Scholarship Fund; “Make a Tribute Gift” in honor of Michael DeJesus