Obituaries
Fall 2026
Aleyamma Grace Abraham, 83
Aleyamma Grace Abraham died on August 31. Born in India, she held a master’s degree in nursing from Vellore Christian Medical College and worked as a nurse in Bombay (now Mumbai). In 1972, while seeing off a friend leaving for America, Grace met her future husband, Abraham Abraham, at the Bombay airport. They corresponded by mail for months, married in 1973 and lived for a time in Brunei, where their son Akash was born; in 1975 they emigrated to New York, where their daughter Anita was born. Grace worked as a nurse in pediatrics, adult care, and in an ambulatory OB-GYN clinic.
In January 2017, she and Abraham moved to Laurel to be near Anita and her family; son Akash later followed them to Maryland. Soon after Abraham died in 2019, Grace was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Joey Cook, Akash’s partner and Grace’s “adopted son,” became her loving caretaker. It was at Joey and Akash’s home in Laurel that Grace passed, surrounded by her children. In addition to Akash, Joey, and Anita, she is survived by son-in-law Edward and granddaughter Elizabeth.
Dante Antonioni, 92
Beloved community member Dante “Danny” Antonioni passed away on July 29. Born in 1934 in Italy, he was one of five children. At age 22, he left for the U.S. and settled in Massachusetts, near family. After being trained as a cook during a stint in the U.S. Army, Dante became a professional meat cutter and moved to Washington, DC, where he worked for Safeway in the wholesale meat department. He met his wife, RoseMarie Marchegiani, in 1960; they married and raised three children at their home in Riverdale.
Dante later became a sales consultant for AM Briggs Meat and Seafood Company, where he served over 100 restaurants and was the top salesman for most of his career. He opened his own deli, Antonioni’s Italian Market, in 1986, fulfilling a lifelong dream, and sold the successful business a few years later to spend more time with family. He and RoseMarie moved to Laurel in 1999, where they became cherished members of St. Mary’s Parish; he found joy preparing dinners for church events. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Sons of Italy for over 40 years. He enjoyed cooking for others, gardening, camping, and traveling.
He is survived by RoseMarie; their children Michael (Faith), Sharon (David), and Jennifer; five grandchildren; and his sister, Maria.
Betty Lou Beaudin, 80
Laurel native Betty Lou Beaudin died on July 8. The youngest of eight children, she grew up on “the Boulevard” in Laurel and was a Laurel High School graduate. She loved attending school dances, laughing with friends, and dancing the jitterbug.
Betty and her husband of 59 years, David, were longtime members of First Baptist Church of Laurel. They raised their two daughters in home deeply rooted in their Christian faith. Betty Lou could often be heard singing hymns around the house. Her greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren, and her beloved pets, who gave her companionship and comfort through the years.
In addition to David, she leaves behind daughters Jennifer (Rick) and Tricia (Alan), six grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Gladys Mae Becraft, 82
Gladys Mae Becraft died at her Beltsville home on May 31. Born at home to parents Chester and Myrtle Hardisty, she told the story of how her parents paid the doctor with half a hog, rather than cash, for delivering her. She married husband Alvin Becraft in 1960 and raised three daughters: twins Laura and Lenora, and Loretta. Gladys wanted to be a homemaker foremost, so she worked from home as a babysitter. Starting in 1975, she launched a successful career as an Avon representative, which she excelled at for 51 years.
In addition to her husband and daughters, Gladys is survived by a sister, seven grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Leonard Gilbert Bookhultz, Sr., 90
Longtime Academy Ford employee Leonard Gilbert “Bookie” Bookhultz died on July 7 following complications from heart surgery. Born in Baltimore, he moved to Laurel with his wife, Joyce Elaine Hall, and began a career at Academy Ford that would last more than 50 years. He served in the National Guard, enjoyed car racing, soccer, coffee, crossword puzzles, and local sports.
He was preceded in death by many family members: his parents, four siblings, two sons, and two grandsons. He is survived by wife Joyce, brother Leroy (Mary Kay), sons Robert (Marlene) and Jeffrey, daughter Terri Bloom (Jeff), six grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren and other family members.
Michael Lucas Bozievich, 82
Decorated Air Force veteran Michael Lucas Bozievich died on August 26. Born in Prince George’s County, he spent most of his life in Laurel, graduating from Laurel High School in 1962. He went on to serve in the U.S. Air Force from 1962 to 1970, earning numerous honors and decorations, including the National Defense Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign medals. He earned his parachutist jump wings and was recognized as a small arms expert. Following his military service, Michael worked for Ed’s TV and Earl’s TV, where his natural ability to work with his hands and fix just about anything served him well. He was a member of American Legion Post 60 and the Elks Lodge.
One of his greatest passions was cars and racing. He loved working on cars and was a dirt-track racer who loved his No. 42 car. He was happiest when he had a project to work on. However, more important than anything he built or repaired was his care for others, especially his parents, for whom he became a caretaker later in their lives. Although somewhat reserved, his kindness and willingness to help others spoke volumes about his character.
Frederick A. Carmen, Sr., 91
Frederick A. Carmen, Sr. died at his home in Laurel, Maryland on Saturday, September 19th, 2026. Fred, as he was known to his many friends, was born on December 26th, 1934, to Fred Carmen and Dorothy Ryan (Lauder) Carmen in Washington, DC. The oldest of three children, Fred attended Thomas Jefferson High School but graduated in the first class at Suitland High School after his family moved to Bradbury Heights in Maryland.
After graduation, Fred joined the United States Navy where he served from 1953–1957, during the Korean War. Upon his Honorable discharge from the Navy, Fred attended and graduated from Capitol Radio Engineering Institute (CREI), now known as Capital Technology University and worked as a television repairman in Washington, DC.
Fred began a 38-year career with the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL), at its current campus in Laurel, Maryland. During that time, Fred worked in the Technical Services Department. Among the many projects that he worked on, he was especially proud of his support role in the Apollo 11 mission to land humans on the Moon in 1969. Additionally, Fred was part of the team that designed the Kossiakoff Center, located on the campus of JHU/APL and, in 1984, was one of two developers on two-way classroom network between JHU/APL and the campus of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. This video system linked, via fiber optics and microwave technology, the Kossiakoff Center with classrooms on the campus of JHU. This was the first time that students could interact with speakers, remotely. Fred retired as a Project Manager in the Fall of 2000.
Fred was preceded in death by his father, Fred Carmen, his mother, Dorothy Carmen, his brother, Lawrence Carmen and the love of his life and best friend, Lynn Carmen.
Fred is survived by his sister, Jan Carmen, son Frederick A. Carmen, Jr. (Jennifer), daughter Karen Arnaiz (Jim). His grandchildren, Lindsey Carmen, Andrew Frazier (Kate Tate), David Carmen (Holly Tang), Shannon Frazier (Andrew Kuczinski), Tyler Carmen (Audrey) and James Arnaiz, III. He also has two beautiful, great grandchildren, Ireland and Sage.
Cecelia C. Caudill, 79
Cecelia C. Caudill of Laurel passed away on July 21. Born in Washington, DC, she graduated from Bladensburg High School in 1965, married, and began raising a family in Landover. She relocated to Maryland City in 1980. A loving person, Cecilia was known as “grandma” to everyone she met—a title she held with great pride. She enjoyed gardening, reading, decorating, word searches, cooking, baking, and doing craft projects with her grandchildren. She was famous for her crab cakes and other family recipes, and loved to sing and dance while preparing food.
A huge animal lover, Cecilia was a member of the ASPCA. She also loved sports and going to the beach. She was a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church.
Cecilia is survived by her children, Charlotte Ann Caudill, Bridgette Cathren Caudill, and Denise Ilene Caudill-Davis; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many dear friends.
Paul Leroy Davis, 90
World-renowned organist and music instructor Paul Leroy Davis passed away on July 15. A Laurel resident, he was the organist and music director for Christ Lutheran Church at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor for over 45 years and served 20 years as an organ teacher at the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University. As an associate professor and chairman of the music department at the University of Notre Dame of Maryland, he taught music theory and was especially proud of the choir he directed, which gained critical acclaim and performed all over the world.
A graduate of Williamsport High School (Maryland) and Bridgewater College in Virginia, Dr. Davis was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study in Germany with the famous blind organist Helmut Walcha. He also studied organ at music institutes in Massachusetts, Spain, and Germany. He earned his doctorate at Peabody, where he taught organ performance, organ literature, and the history of organ construction and design. He was Dean of the Baltimore Chapter of the American Guild of Organists in 1983-84 and taught many well-known organists and musicians throughout the Baltimore-Washington area.
Dr. Davis performed in numerous countries throughout the 1970s and 80s and was praised for his technical mastery and stylistic artistry. He was especially well-known in Bavaria for his frequent concerts on the 18th-century organ in the famous Wieskirche and the three organs in the great Benedictine Abbey in Ottobeuren. After retiring from teaching and performing in the mid-1980s, he devoted himself to his work at Christ Lutheran. In 2007 he designed and installed a new Andover organ, which the congregation dedicated to him and the church choir.
Michael Vernon Downey, 70
Michael “Micky” Vernon Downey of Laurel, who worked as a mail carrier in Maryland City for over 20 years, died on July 21. A lifelong Maryland resident, he was a proud U.S. Army veteran, having served in the late 1970s. In addition to his USPS career, from which he retired in 2009, he was head cook at Doctors Hospital and head chef at Blue Mountain Christian retreat.
Known for his friendly demeanor, Micky would talk to anyone; he was always making new friends. He enjoyed cooking for friends and family, hunting, fishing, gardening, and reading a good book.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Geneva Jean Downey, daughter Christi Beall (Charles), two grandchildren, two great-children, and his brothers William (Carol), Robert, Thomas, Patrick, and sister-in-law Faye Downey. His brothers Richard and John predeceased him.
Patricia Ann Farmer, 82
Laurel resident Patricia Ann Farmer passed away unexpectedly on August 4. Born in Washington, DC, she grew up in Southeast Washington, graduated from St. Teresa’s Catholic School in Anacostia and St. Cecilia’s Academy, and earned a degree from Dunbarton College of the Holy Cross in 1966. She proudly served her country for more than 35 years as an employee of the National Security Agency. A gifted writer and communicator, she was a trusted editor for anyone who asked, as well as a natural counselor, advisor, and researcher. She shared her talents with the Laurel community by writing senior-focused and community-interest articles for the Laurel Leader.
A devout Catholic, Patricia gave much of her time and talent to St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Church, where she served in several ministries, including bereavement. She created a cherished 50th Anniversary Book for the parish and helped plan many bazaars and other activities. She was also a generous member of many professional and civic organizations, including the American Rosie the Riveter Association, the Maryland Gerontological Association, and Women in NSA. She loved to read, solve acrostics and crosswords, and play Scrabble.
Patricia is survived by her husband of 46 years, Michael Albert Farmer; her sister, Margaret Bates; sister-in-law Mary Bush Paduda; six nieces and nephews, 12 great-nieces and -nephews, and numerous great-great nieces and nephews.
Ruth Ann Flester, 82
Lifelong Laurel resident Ruth Ann Flester died on June 27. Proud that she was a fourth-generation Laurel resident, Ruth attended Laurel High School and Bard-Avon Secretarial/Finishing School in Baltimore. She was a member of two area Baptist churches and the First United Methodist Church of Laurel.
Ruth worked at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Beltsville for 40 years, retiring in 2008. She received numerous awards in her career, including being named 2008 Secretary of the Year. She also took on side jobs at home sewing, caning chairs, and typing. She typed for two pastors in the area—Charles Chilton and Walter Agnor—and typed and edited books written by leading agricultural experts.
In retirement, Ruth learned to quilt, then made custom quilts for friends and family members. She also loved to crochet, garden, camp, fish, and enjoy crab feasts with her family. She leaves behind her partner of over 30 years, Byron Noel Newton; daughter Carey Roberta Wilkerson (Michael); two grandchildren; and brothers John (Geri) of Laurel and Andrew (Joan) of North Carolina.
David J. Forbes, 77
Laurel resident David J. Forbes, who served his country as an Army medic for over 30 years, passed away on July 11 at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he had worked as a medical professional. He was born in Canton, Ohio, and grew up in LeRoy, New York, where he was active in Boy Scouts. After completing an Army medical specialist course at age 19, he enlisted in the Army and completed two tours in Vietnam as a Green Beret combat medic. He earned a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star, a Silver Star, and many other service-related decorations and medals. His 30-year military service also included time in the Marines and Air Force, as well as graduating from the Command and General Staff College.
After returning from Vietnam, David attended SUNY Brockport on the GI Bill and was proud to be the first in his family to earn a college degree; he went on to earn advanced degrees from Elmira College, Pepperdine University, and the University of Maryland. Later in life, he returned to his passion for medicine and serving other veterans, becoming a nurse practitioner and counseling soldiers at Walter Reed who suffered from PTSD. David’s final resting place will be on the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery.
David is survived by Stella, his wife of 33 years; daughters Kim Bloome (Chris), Jen Forbes (David Weller), and Anne Forbes (Rae Obejero); and granddaughter Julie Bloome.
Genine Christina Furguiele, 68
Russett resident Genine Christina Furguiele passed away on June 7. The middle of five children, Genine was the first of her family to graduate from college, earning an accounting degree from Robert Morris University. She worked as a special agent in the criminal investigation department for the IRS until her 2014 retirement. Following retirement, she did some substitute teaching in the area, becoming known affectionately as “Miss G.”
Known as a generous spirit, Genine gave freely to others, be it gifts or food. She liked to cook, read, meditate, and hike; she was often seen by neighbors and friends walking the paths of Russett. She was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan and loved the singers Tina Turner and Pat Benatar, playing their music as she cleaned house.
Genine is survived by her partner of 21 years, Robert Davis; her daughter, Michaela Brady (Mark); four siblings; a grandson, and eight nieces and nephews.
Robert Leroy Grafton, 73
Robert Leroy Grafton passed on September 23, 2026, at the age of 73, having been born on October 2, 1952, and residing in Laurel.
Amy Elisabeth Griffin, 59
Longtime Amtrak employee Amy Elisabeth Griffin of Laurel died on June 27. Born in Pittsburgh and raised in Akron, Ohio, her travels took her to Maryland, where she began working for Amtrak in 1988. At the time of her death, she had worked there for 38 years and was proud to serve as president of her local Amtrak union. She enjoyed traveling the country, including frequent trips to Pittsburgh to visit family. She liked to visit the zoos in any city she traveled to, and enjoyed spending leisurely evenings with friends, sharing meals and fellowship.
She was predeceased by her mother, Barbara Ann Reif Griffin; brothers Clay and Eric; and her partner of 30 years, William French. Amy is survived by an aunt and uncle in Oregon, cousins, and many friends who became family, including Joanne Brown, with whom she shared 40 years of friendship.
Shirley Harvey-Poole, 78
Former Laurel resident Shirley Harvey-Poole died on August 4. Born on New Year’s Day in Tennessee, she had an innate sense of style and a lifelong “passion for fashion”; she was never seen without her signature red lipstick. She was known for her kindness, her love of music, dance, and dessert, and her cherished collection of family memories in the form of photos, crafts, cards, letters, and music albums. Her love of gospel music infused joy; she woke her household to worship music on many Saturdays and held church in her home office on Sundays. Her devotion to and love for her family was unwavering.
Shirley leaves behind her husband, John Poole; her four children from her first marriage, to Marvin Collier, Sr.—Rhonda, Marvin, Robert, and Mia; sons Jon-David and Craig Harvey from her second marriage, to David Harvey (deceased); and stepdaughter Jennifer Grundy. She also is survived by 6 siblings, 17 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her parents and five siblings.
Michael Jules Hof, 80
Master Chief Petty Officer Michael Jules Hof of Laurel, a 30-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, passed away on July 9 after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Patriotic and a friend to everyone he met, Michael loved gardening, watching old Westerns, reading Louis L’Amour books, and doing projects around the house.
He is survived by Donna, his wife of 33 years, along with their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and many friends.
William E. Hairfield, 89
Longtime Burtonsville resident and horse trainer William Edward “Eddie” Hairfield passed away on June 6. His lifelong career with horses began at the age of 15, under the guidance of a teacher and mentor, Sam Kirk, who taught him the art of exercising racehorses. He became a jockey and rode professionally for a brief time, earning his first victory at Sunshine Park in Florida; however, it was his excellent horse exercising skills that built his reputation. In his thirties, he transitioned to horse training, where he enjoyed a highly successful career, training numerous winners and earning the respect of many throughout the racing community.
Spending the majority of his career at Laurel Park, Eddie enjoyed building relationships, working, racing, and celebrating victories. When not at the track, he would be found working on his 7-acre farm in Burtonsville, watching live races on TV, or enjoying the day from his front porch along with friends, neighbors, and his beloved wife, the late Lillion Jeanette Musgrove, with whom he shared 68 years of marriage.
Eddie is survived by children William E. Hairfield, Jr. (Millie), Laura Nicholls (Robert), and Julie Newton; six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and two brothers.
Dr. Hiro T. Huang, 86
A beloved pediatrician to multiple generations of Laurel families, Dr. Hiro T. Huang, died on September 12. Dr. Huang was born and raised in Taiwan, the son of a pediatrician who had a reputation as a patient, compassionate doctor who not only treated his patients, but also helped to educate their parents on children’s health matters. That inspired Hiro to enter medicine so he could start a similar practice. After graduating from medical school in 1969, he and his wife Joan, a dentist, moved to New Jersey, where he completed his residency. Although they intended to return to Taiwan, the political situation there was untenable, so they took the advice of a colleague and moved to Maryland. Hiro opened his practice in 1974, in a shopping center off Route 198. When the Laurel Lakes neighborhood was developed, he moved the practice to the lakeside office park off Cherry Lane, where he treated patients until his retirement in 2016.
In the 1980s, the doctors Huang joined a Buddhist medical missionary group, Tzu Chi International Medical Association. For many years, including in retirement, they traveled to the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and El Salvador providing free medical treatment in community clinics, as well as helping with disaster relief efforts across the United States. The husband-and-wife team became affectionately known as “Grandpa and Grandma Huang.” Their daughter Elena followed in her father’s footsteps: she earned a Harvard medical degree and is a pediatrician and professor of clinical pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, making her a third-generation doctor carrying on the family’s spirit of service and compassion.
Daniel Martin Jeffers, 87
Daniel “Danny” Martin Jeffers of Laurel passed away on July 2. Born in Minooka, PA, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps after graduation. He later married his high school sweetheart, Barbara, and they enjoyed 52 years of marriage. They moved to the DC area in 1960 and Danny joined the Metropolitan Police Department. Retiring in 1980 after serving 20 years on the police force, Danny worked in security at Laurel Park, served as a bodyguard to a high-ranking foreign official, and finished out his second career at the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center.
Danny and Barbara were founding members of Resurrection of our Lord Catholic Church in Laurel and members of the Maryland City Civic Association. Danny belonged to Laurel Moose Lodge #11, Laurel American Legion Post 60, Laurel Elks Lodge, and the Emerald Society of the Washington DC area—a fraternal organization of Irish American first responders. Danny and Barbara loved to travel, especially to Ireland, and they served for 20 years as parade marshals for the Emerald Society’s annual Saint Patrick’s Day parade.
Danny was preceded in death by Barbara, their son Michael, and his sister Maryanne. He is survived by daughter Kimberley Rau-Sisto (Frank), sons Daniel (Karen), Richard (Bryan Ashby), and Robert (Diane); 17 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; four siblings; and many nieces nephews, and great-nieces and -nephews.
Janet Mae Knubel, 76
Janet Mae Knubel, age 76, passed away in Silver Spring on October 1.
Born on July 13, 1950 in Baltimore, MD, daughter of Kenneth G. Schlein, Sr. and Eileen Louise (Ryan) Schlein. Janet notably lived in Baltimore, Severna Park, Arnold, Stevensville, and Laurel, MD. She earned her B.S. in Biology at Towson State University in 1992. She worked for the Anne Arundel County Government in the Office of Law until retiring in 2016. Janet was a three-time survivor of breast cancer and truly valued her health. She was an avid home chef, loved gardening, and relished style and fashion. She enjoyed watching the Baltimore Ravens and the Villanova Men’s Basketball team. More than anything, she loved spending time with her large family and taking care of her grandchildren.
Janet was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Barbara Ann Schlein (2008). Janet is survived by her son, Adam Ryan Knubel (Kristina H. Knubel) of Laurel, MD, her daughter, Melissa Christian Eliadis of Stevensville, MD, grandchildren Alex James Eliadis, Colson James Eliadis, Liam Michael Knubel and siblings, Carolyn Hartman (Larry) of Severna Park, MD, Kenneth G. Schlein, Jr. (Dolly) of Pasadena, MD, Eileen Horan of Arnold, Jacqueline Seth of Ocean View, DE, Deborah Dyer (Bill) of Abingdon, MD and numerous nieces and nephews.
Michael Metcalf Landrum, 83
Michael Metcalf Landrum, a Prince George’s County native whose law enforcement career placed him in the center of a 1972 national story, died on September 15. Born in Washington, DC, he was raised in Hyattsville by his mother, Phillis Metcalf, and shared a close bond with his sister, Pat, who preceded him in death. He attended Northwestern High School, where he played football. After graduating he joined the Prince George’s County Police Department, where he was issued badge 141 and began a 23-year career in law enforcement.
Mike served in a number of capacities for the police. He began as a uniformed officer, serving as one of the county’s first motorcycle police officers; he later served in the Special Operations Division and was also an investigator in the Detective Division. It was during his Special Ops service in 1972 that he was on duty in Laurel for a public appearance by Democratic Presidential candidate George Wallace. When a man named Arthur Bremer shot Wallace in an assassination attempt, Mike played a direct role in identifying and apprehending Bremer amid the mayhem and confusion on the scene.
Following his retirement from the force, Mike continued to serve the county and his police brethren for 16 years, as an active member and officer of the Retired Officers’ Association of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 89. He eventually moved to Chesapeake Beach, where he could live near the water, in keeping with his lifelong passion for the Chesapeake Bay and the people and history of Southern Maryland. He possessed a deep knowledge of Maryland history and devoured books about Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War.
He is survived by family members Sallie, Jeff, Nick, and Chris, along with four grandchildren.
Janice B. Loftus, 87
Janice B. “Jan” Loftus was born in North Carolina, an only child. She graduated from the University of North Carolina Greensboro, an all-women college at the time, and later completed a master’s degree at the University of Maryland. She devoted 32 years to teaching at Laurel High School, where she shaped and inspired generations of students with her patience, dedication, and deep love for learning. After retiring from teaching, she worked in a CPA office.
Jan was involved in several community groups, including the West Laurel Homeowners Association, the Prince George’s Mental Health Association, and the Laurel branch of the American Association of University Women. She was a treasurer for Laurel Presbyterian Church and for the Whispering Woods Condominium Association in Ocean City.
She was preceded in death by both her husbands, Charles Stanton and Joseph Loftus. She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Ann Taylor (John); a granddaughter; two great-grandchildren; Joseph’s two daughters and their children and grandchildren; and many cousins.
Shirley Lee Luby, 77
Shirley Lee Luby, who served in many leadership positions at American Legion Post 60, died on July 7. Her lifelong commitment to serving others began in 1967, when she enlisted in the U.S Army and served as a Specialist-5 technical expert. Following her military service, she had a long career with an orthopedic medical practice until her retirement, at which time she devoted herself to serving veterans and others in the Laurel community through the American Legion.
Lee held many leadership positions over the years, including Post Commander, Prince George’s County Commander, and a member of the Department of Maryland Executive Committee. She was always willing to step forward wherever she was needed, whether mentoring new members, organizing events, or helping out behind the scenes. Her leadership, kindness, and unwavering commitment to service made both her community and the American Legion stronger, and her influence will continue to live on through the many people she mentored, encouraged, and inspired.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Luby, Jr., and four siblings. She is survived by a sister, Judy Phillips, in Texas, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Thomas Edward Lynch, 94
The co-founder of Academy Ford in Laurel, Thomas Edward Lynch, died on June 24 at his home in Scaggsville. Born in Washington, DC, Tom graduated from Gonzaga College High School in 1949 and Georgetown University in 1957. He interrupted his college studies to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1950 to 1954, during the Korean War. He married his wife, Mary, in 1958 and they raised six children and settled in Scaggsville.
In the early 1960s, when Tom was working for the Ford Motor Company, he and his close friend Bob Bell purchased Academy Garage in downtown Laurel and renamed it Academy Ford. They later built a modern dealership along Route 1, just south of Contee Road, where it continues to operate. In 1978, the partners amicably divided the business and Tom became sole owner.
Tom served as an usher for many years at Saint Louis Catholic Church in Clarksville. His generosity and kindness were evident through his support of many organizations, including local ones: Laurel Volunteer Fire Department, Saint Vincent Pallotti High School, and First Generation College Bound. He loved spending weekends at Piney Point and hosted an annual Fourth of July family reunion there for four generations. He was famous for his secret cucumber recipe—which he always refused to divulge, but which was shared with guests at his funeral service.
Tom was predeceased by Mary, his wife of 57 years, as well as five siblings. He is survived by his six children: Caryn Lynch Bacon (Jeff), Thomas Edward Lynch, Jr. (Sue Ellen), Kathryn O’Donnell Lynch, Mary Hanlon Lynch (Vincent), Michael Hayes Lynch (Melanie), and Ann Dennisten Lynch; his youngest sister, Kay Inglesby; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a vast extended family.
Russell V. McCardle, 97
Russell V. McCardle, age 97, passed away peacefully with family by his side on September 17. He was born on November 1, 1928, in Ickesburg, Pennsylvania. He was predeceased in death by his father, Van S. McCardle and his mother, Catherine F. Reisninger. Russell was married to his first wife, Mary Jane Hammon for 55 years and together, they enjoyed a fruitful life and had three wonderful children, Mary Jane McCardle (Jerry Ammons, Deceased) of Grass Valley, California, Van R. McCardle (Cheryl M. Scovitch McCardle) of Clayton, North Carolina, and Lynn R. McCardle (Lisa M. Maumary McCardle) of Columbia, Maryland. His wife predeceased him in death as well.
After graduating from Strasburg High School in Strasburg, Virginia, in 1945, he married Mary Jane and enlisted in the United States Army Airforce (USAAF) in 1946, where he served in the Pacific Theatre (Japan). He completed his tour of duty and was honorably discharged in 1949. Afterwards, he returned to Strasburg, Virginia where he lived with Mary Jane at the family farm.
Eventually, he secured a job with the Armed Services Security Group at Arlington Hall in Arlington, Virginia. During this period, he attended and pursued classes through the Foreign Service curriculum at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Later, the NSA evolved out of the ASSG and relocated to Ft. Meade, Maryland, and he moved his family to Laurel, Maryland. He remained employed in this capacity and retired from NSA in 1980. After retirement, he became bored and completed a series of classes in construction management at the local community college. He secured his business license and became the sole proprietor of McCardle Construction, a position which he held for approximately 13 years.
After he retired from McCardle Construction, he enjoyed travelling and spending time with Mary Jane, his adult children, grandchildren (7), great grandchildren (4), and great great grandchildren (12). He was also an adamant reader of everything one could think of, especially international affairs. He enjoyed bowling duck pin and was a valued team member of the “Wednesday Sunsetters” at the Laurel Bowling Alley where they achieved more than several records and many awards.
Russell married his second wife, Apipawadee Wannasang, in 2015. Apipawadee, also known as “Penn” is a seasoned chef and restaurant entrepreneur in the “Thai” cuisine. Her skills in this profession are unmatched and Russell thoroughly enjoyed the food she prepared for him each and every day. Together, they enjoyed the simple things in life. She was his Guardian Angel at the end of his life and is truly a special person.
He will be sincerely missed by all who knew him.
Larry Robert Minnick, 82
Larry Robert Minnick, whose family has run a successful heating and air conditioning business since the 1950s, died on September 2 in North Carolina. Born in Virginia, Larry grew up in Burtonsville and, after attending Sherwood High School, entered the National Guard as a sharpshooter. Following his military service, he joined his father at Minnick’s Heating and Air, founded in 1954, and worked there for many years. He was later joined by his three sons, making it a three-generation business.
Larry was known for his style, humor, generosity, kindheartedness, faith, and dedication to his family. He loved to garden, birdwatch, and tan by the pool. He was a member of the Burtonsville Lions Club and the Burtonsville Baptist Church.
He was predeceased by his three siblings and his son Randy. He is survived by his wife, Maureen; his sons Rob (Dawn) and Rusty (Patti); daughter-in-law Dawne; and three granddaughters.
Robert Melvin Moe, 97
Robert (Bob) Melvin Moe was born in Florida and graduated from St. Petersburg High School in 1946. He attended Eastern Michigan University and George Washington University. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1954 as an infantry officer during the Korean Campaign and later was awarded a Combat Infantry Badge, two Battle Stars, and the Bronze Star Medal. He also received special Ambassador for Peace medals from the Republic of South Korea.
Bob married Barbara Ann Burley of Washington, DC, in 1954 and they moved to Laurel, where they and their four children became well-known community members. He worked for AAA and New York Life Insurance before taking a position at The Washington Post, where he worked for over 30 years, retiring in 1991 as a Senior Advertising Manager. He became an avid golfer in retirement, playing weekly on the local senior circuit until he was 90. He was a member of American Legion Post 60 and a former member of VFW Post 8950.
For 65 years, Bob volunteered with many organizations, including the Cub Scouts, the American Heart Association, the PTA at Beacon Heights and Montpelier, and the East Pines Citizens Association. He was most proud, though, of his volunteer work at Laurel Regional Hospital. Serving as Hospital Auxiliary President, he was widely recognized at the hospital information desk; he and Barbara spent most Friday nights there for 36 years. He continued to be recognized in the Laurel community for his service, resilience, and strength of character until his passing, just shy of age 98.
Barbara passed away in 2022, after 68 years of marriage. Bob is survived by his children Stephen (Kelly), Lorie Smallets (Walter), Craig, and Brian (Joann); 7 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
Thomas Lee Morris, 78
Thomas Lee Morris, of Laurel, passed away on August 26. Born in Seattle, Washington, he grew up on a small blueberry farm, with orchards and farm animals. He was part of the first integrated class at Puyallup High School, the class of 1966. As a child, he witnessed the test pilot “Tex” Johnson’s famously unauthorized barrel roll in a prototype 707 passenger jet in 1957, which possibly inspired him to work at the Boeing factory. While working there, he was drafted into the Army and served as a communications technician during the Vietnam War. He was wounded during off-duty hours, returned to the States, and worked at the Pentagon for a short time before taking a job as a security guard at Computer Sciences Corporation.
When a position in the copy room came open, he started a 37-year career in publishing, rising to positions of increasing responsibility until he was head of publications. Known for his quiet, steady resolve, he was credited with preventing several acts of violence among his coworkers. Tom married his wife, Margaret, in 1996 and embraced her two children as his own. He also welcomed Margaret’s mother and, later in life, her father, into their home during periods when they needed care and assistance. Tom, who was adopted, reconnected with his birth family later in life; knowing them and visiting them brought him great joy.
In addition to his wife, Margaret, Tom is survived by their children Mariam d’Eustachio and Gregory Hunanian, and five grandchildren.
Bertha Mae Rushing, 84
Laurel native Bertha Mae Rushing died on July 2 in Westminster. A 1960 graduate of Laurel High School, she married Carlos D. Rushing shortly after graduation; they were together for 44 years and raised three children. Bertha held fulfilling roles at Ft. Meade and the Laurel Park before settling into a distinguished career at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab, where she worked until her 1999 retirement. She was an active member of Wards Chapel Methodist Church and a past member of Laurel Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary, where she dedicated her time and energy to serving others and supporting community initiatives.
Bertha loved camping, fishing, and crabbing with family at Point Lookout. She played bingo and card games several times a week, with a competitive spirit. Her later years were enriched by cherished shopping trips with her daughter, Mary.
Bertha was preceded in death by Carlos, her daughter Carla, her two siblings, a nephew, and a great-nephew. She is survived by son Carlos Rushing, Jr., daughter Mary Pelch (Kevin), three grandchildren, a godson, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Because Voices of Laurel is a quarterly publication, obituaries are compiled over the course of each issue every three months. We do our best to include as many published notices as possible, and there is no charge for inclusion. Send obituaries with a photo to laurelhistoryboys@gmail.com.
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