Obituaries

Spring 2026

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George Aleksei, 71

George Kuno Aleksei of Laurel passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, at Oak Manor at Autumn Lake. Born on October 2, 1954, in Fort Meade, he was the son of Kuno Aleksei and Carol Margaret Aleksei. He graduated from Arundel Senior High School in 1972 and worked independently as a construction worker and delivery driver. He was an avid boater and also traveled to various states to attend thoroughbred horse racetracks.

George is survived by his wife of 30 years, Sandra (Morris) Aleksei; his son, Wyeth George Aleksei; his sisters, Benita Steele (Robert) and Jouett Kahan (Bruce); and two nephews, Alex and Aaron Kahan.

Judith Boyce, 87

Judith “Mamma” A. Boyce, a longtime librarian in Laurel, passed away in Florida on February 22, 2026. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Judi had a lifelong love for books. When she moved to Maryland with her first husband and their five children, she dedicated her professional career to serving others as a librarian at the Prince George’s County Library branch in Laurel. In 1978, Judi married Francis “Grumpy” Boyce; they moved to Titusville, Florida, and formed a blended family during their 47 years of marriage.

Judi loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She liked to go bowling, shop, and read. She is survived by daughters Terri Peters (George), Francis “Gil” Gilmartin (Leslie), Janine Reeves (Charles), and Patricia Aldrich; son Ronald Boyce (Regina); 18 grandchildren; 42 great grandchildren; and, two great-great grandchildren. 

Beryle Cohen, 91

Beryle Cohen, who established the wrestling program at Laurel High School and served as LHS wrestling coach for many years, died on March 17th, 2026. A Baltimore native, he began wrestling in his youth at City College and at a local YMCA. His success in wrestling continued during his collegiate years at the University of Maryland. After graduating in 1958, he served two years in the U.S. Marine Corps; later, in the Marine Reserves, he was named Outstanding Marine of the Year.

Beryle joined the staff at Laurel High School in 1960, teaching driver’s education and physical education and serving as athletic director for part of his 34-year career there. He started the wrestling program in 1960 and served as its head coach from 1960 to 1963, then again from 1966 to 1979. During the interim years, he coached at American University. In addition, he established a junior wrestling program at the Laurel Boys Club and often officiated at local high school and college matches. He retired from coaching in 1979 and from teaching in 1994. He was inducted into the Maryland Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1983 and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2004, lauded for building a program defined not only by success, but also relentless work ethic, discipline, and accountability. He held himself to the same standard he set for others, teaching that a leader must give their very best before expecting it from anyone else.

Beryle never slowed down or did anything halfway. Even in his later years, he remained deeply committed to his health, working out every day with the same discipline that defined so much of his life. He found joy and freedom in movement—whether skiing, sailing, or riding his Harley—and he loved spending time with his family, particularly his beloved grandchildren. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments, but also for the lasting impact he had on others: the lessons he taught, the standards he set, and the lives he shaped. His influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.

He is survived by his wife of over 61 years, Barbara Cohn; sons Erik Cohen and Neil (Suzanne) Cohen; daughter-in-law Dr. Stefanie Stevenson; and eight grandchildren. He was predeceased by son Dr. Paul Cohen, sister Naomi Seligman, daughter-in-law Marcia Cohen, and granddaughters Devorah and Leika Cohen.

Lois Croy, 97

Lois O. Croy, of Laurel, died on February 3, 2026, in Newark, Delaware. Born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, she was the middle child of five. After graduating from McKeesport Technical High School, she worked as a telephone operator for Bell Telephone and was a volunteer in the Women’s Air Corp (WAC) during World War II. She married Clarence Walter Croy in 1955 and was a devoted mother to their three children. When her children were grown, Lois worked as a records clerk for Phelps Time Lock and Goodyear Tire Companies, and then as an office manager for Happy Property Management Company. She retired at age 65 but remained active: she was an expert baker, avid gardener, and excellent cook and seamstress. She always had a batch of chocolate chip cookies on hand for family and friends. She was a longtime member of Riverdale Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School to first graders for over 20 years.

Lois was preceded in death by her former husband, Clarence, and three siblings. She is survived by her son, Keith Clifford Croy (Patrizia); her daughters, Geri Christine Croy Larson and Shari Pauline Croy Wagner (David); four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a sister, Olive Ruth “Jimmie” Traeger Croft.    

George Currie, 102

George Currie was born on February 19, 1923. He passed peacefully in his Laurel home of 56 years on February 9, 2026—just shy of his 103rd birthday. Born in Philadelphia, George lived in the same neighborhood as his extended family and often spoke of growing up playing ball in the streets and spending summers in Wildwood. He attended West Catholic Preparatory High School in Chester, Pennsylvania, where he rowed on crew and graduated with honors. He enlisted in the Navy and trained as a pilot for World War II; he flew more than 20 types of aircraft in his career and later served as a flight instructor in Pensacola, Florida. He loved to fly and continued to serve in the Navy Reserves for 20 years after leaving active service. He attended Villanova University on the GI Bill and was proud of earning a degree in electrical engineering as a “very senior” student. That degree led to his second career, as an electrical engineer for Bosch Arma Aerospace, where he played a role in his country’s space flight development.

George married Jane Nolan in 1950. Together they raised three children—Kevin, Sharon, and Donna—and enjoyed a beautiful life. His job took them around the country, and the family lived in New York and California before settling in Maryland. He loved people and was always open and present when spending time with others, actively listening and genuinely enjoying being with them. He could always be seen on the sidelines cheering on his grandchildren, who called him Pop Pop; he attended all of their games, concerts, presentations, and ceremonies that he possibly could. He loved to travel, loved new experiences, and loved to learn about the world he lived in. Having lived through the Great Depression, he had a deep respect and love for life, taking nothing for granted. He was known as a “gentle giant,” patient and kind, and a true man of God with unwavering faith.

Barbara Dye, 91

Barbara A. Dye passed away on January 7, 2026. Born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, she was the youngest of 13 children. She left high school in her senior year to help support her family, and shortly thereafter met the love of her life, Roy E. Dye. They dated for several years, during which time he went to Korea; waiting for him back home, she wrote letters to him weekly, and they married in 1955 after his return to the States. They were married for 45 years until Roy died in 2000.

Barbara held several jobs in the Laurel area over the years. She worked as a pharmacy technician, worked in doctor’s offices, and spent several years at Arbitron. She was a room mother at Maryland City Elementary School for all three of her children and was a den mother for a local cub scout troop. She belonged to the Eastern Star and the Maryland City Civic Association, and was active in the First Baptist Church of Laurel, where she taught Sunday school and sang in the choir. She became active in politics starting in 1960, often hosting luncheons and tea parties for candidate spouses and eventually serving as a Chief Judge and Precinct Chairperson for elections.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her first-born son, Thomas R. Dye. She is survived by daughter Sharon Rankin and son Danny Dye (Anna); daughter-in-law Elaine Dye; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; sister Agnes Ventura; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary Jo Edwards, 87

Mary Jo Edwards died on February 23, 2026, just four days shy of her 88th birthday. Born in Savage, she was a 1956 graduate of Howard High School and worked for Arbitron in Laurel for many years, retiring in 1993. She loved traveling with family to Florida, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia to visit her siblings, and also traveled to Ocean City and Canada. She served at Lifehouse Church in Beltsville, where she sang in the choir and visited the elderly and hospital patients. She enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, playing games, and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

For 20 years, Mary Jo was part of a prison ministry at Maryland Correctional Institute for Women in Jessup. Every week, she would visit inmates and offer a Bible study. Two of the women she met there became good friends after their release.

Mary Jo was predeceased by her eight siblings. She is survived by her children, Gina Burdette and Suzanne Foreman (Robert, Sr.), six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Robert Gregory, 96

Robert James Gregory passed away on January 23, 2026. Born in Newport News, Virginia, he moved to Washington, DC in 1947 to attend Capital Radio Engineering Institute. He lived in College Park from 1957 to 1991, then lived in Laurel for 32 years before moving to Brooke Grove Assisted Living in 2023.

Robert worked for the Department of the Army, Harry Diamond Laboratory (Army Research Lab) from 1957 until his 1988 retirement. During his career, he developed important technology that is still used today. He served as Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 740 in College Park for 12 years, mentoring countless young men in leadership and outdoor skills. He was a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Laurel and Our Lady Star of the Sea in Solomons. He enjoyed woodworking and operating his ham radio.

Robert was predeceased by his wife of 53 years, Ruth Lucille (Tatro) Gregory and his three siblings. He is survived by his seven children: Raymond Joseph Gregory (Cathy), Paul David Gregory (Cheryl), Bernard Frances Gregory (Donna), Anne Michele Packett (Stephen), Amy Joan Howdyshell (Michael), Timothy Charles Gregory (Teri), and Nancy Joy Sites (Jeff). He will also be missed by his 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Edwin Hughes, Jr., 97

Laurel resident Edwin Joseph Hughes, Jr., died peacefully on January 7th, 2026. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1928, Edwin earned a bachelor’s degree at Loyola University. He joined the Navy during the Korean War and served with distinction as a lieutenant for three years. He went on to earn post-graduate degrees at Tulane and Harvard universities, and subsequently earned his doctoral degree at Iowa State University. It was there that he met his wife, Darlys. They married, started a family, and moved to Oregon, where Edwin was a statistics professor at Oregon State University. The family eventually settled in Laurel. Upon his retirement, Edwin and Darlys took their dream cruise to Alaska to celebrate.

A faithful parishioner of St. Mary of the Mills Catholic Church, Edwin will be remembered as an. Honorable man, devoted husband, and attentive father who lived a principled life, provided for his family, and cherished his wife. He made education a priority for his children and, by his example, taught them the importance of always doing what is right.

Edwin is survived by his wife, Darlys; their five children—Michael, Laurie, Stephen (Laura), David (Cecilia), and Julie; three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Charles Ippolito, Jr., 80

Charles Joseph Ippolito, Jr., passed away on December 29, 2025. Born in the Bronx, New York, he was affectionately known as “Buddy” to his family. Growing up as an “Army brat,” he lived in many locations, with two of his favorites being Germany and Japan.

A graduate of the University of Maryland and lifelong Terps fan, Charlie enjoyed a long and distinguished career with the federal government. He was a mentor to many coworkers, passing on his knowledge by developing and presenting training seminars. He initiated and formalized the Business Management Certification Program at his government agency. He spent most of his adult life in Ellicott City, raising his children before moving to Delaware to enjoy retirement. He was an avid sports fan, playing basketball into his adult years. He loved to coach basketball and baseball; he is a Hall of Fame member of the Howard County Youth Program in recognition of 30 years of coaching and serving as commissioner.

Charlie treasured his faith, family, and friends. He loved boating, traveling, and spending time at the beach, especially his trips to Aruba. He loved animals of all sizes, especially his German shepherds, and volunteered for many years at a local horse rescue.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Edna Ippolito, as well as a brother, John Ippolito. He is survived by his wife, Sheri L. (Miller) Ippolito; sons Charles Joseph Ippolito III and Joseph Thomas Ippolito; daughters Stacy Marie Ippolito Long and Ashley Lauren Hill; brother Robert Ippolito; sister Carol A. Collins; and six grandchildren.

King Leatherbury, 92

Hall of Fame thoroughbred trainer King Leatherbury, whose career spanned eight decades and included 52 training titles at Pimlico and Laurel, passed away on February 10, 2026, at his home. With 6,508 career wins, he is the fifth-winningest trainer of all time and was inducted into the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame in 2015. Leatherbury is also a member of the Anne Arundel County Hall of Fame and received a lifetime achievement award from the Maryland Athletic Hall of Fame in 2002. He served as president of both the Maryland Horse Breeders’ Association and Maryland Million Ltd., and served on the board of directors at Timonium.

A Maryland native, King was born in Shady Side and raised on a farm. He graduated from the University of Maryland with a business administration degree, then went on to work at a horse track in Florida, winning his first race in 1959. After returning to Maryland, he made a name for himself as one of the top trainers throughout the 1970s and 80s. His specialty was “claiming” horses, meaning he had a knack for finding cheap horses that he thought were not being trained to their winning potential.

King won at least 100 races every year between 1972 and 1997, then improved even more through the mid-1980s, winning 200 races annually. In addition to his training titles at Maryland tracks, he won four titles at Delaware Park. His most famous claim was a horse called Ben’s Cat, who had suffered a broken pelvis at age 2 and did not race until age 4—but then won 32 races and earned over $2.5 million in winnings, leading him to be named Maryland’s Horse of the Year four times and helping King gain the honor of induction into the Hall of Fame.

King retired in 2023 at the age of 87, after a 62-year streak of having trained at least one winner a year. He is honored each year at Laurel Park with the running of the King T. Leatherbury Stakes for 3-year-olds. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Linda Marie Heavener Leatherbury; twin sons Taylor and Todd; and grandson Heavener.

Paul McKee, 83

Paul Eugene McKee passed away on February 1, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication to family and country. Born and raised in Pennsylvania, he enlisted in the U.S. Army shortly after graduating from Grove City High School in 1960. For nine years, Paul served as a heavy equipment operator, including in a combat engineering battalion in Vietnam.

Following his military service, Paul built a career as a heavy equipment operator with Ratrie, Robbins & Schweitzer from 1969 until 1991, when the Jessup plant location closed. He finished his work tenure as a heavy equipment operator for Driggs Corporation. He was a devoted member of Covenant Church in Ellicott City and a proud member of the American Legion. He deeply enjoyed time spent with family and friends, participating in church activities, and following NASCAR.

Paul was married for 59 years to Patricia Ann (Mathieson) McKee, who preceded him in death. He was also predeceased by a grandson, Daniel Paul Grimes. He is survived by his loving partner of four years, Jo Ann Woltze; his children, Laurie Grimes, Melissa Beall, Debra Marshall, and Michael McKee; nine grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Betty Bell Moore, 89

Betty Bell Moore of Laurel died at her home on February 12, 2026. Born in Washington, DC, Betty graduated from Montgomery Blair High School in 1954 and went on to build a long career as an administrative assistant. Her greatest joy was her family, with whom she shared her boundless kindness, generous spirit, and deep love of reading. She was a steady presence to them, a trusted confidante, a storyteller, and often the life of the party. Her home was a gathering place, her advice was treasured, and her hugs were legendary.

Betty was a “force of nature” who lived with vibrant, unfiltered joy. From being crowned Queen of the Girl Scouts at age 12, to teaching exercise classes to fellow seniors, to dressing up as a clown in her 70s in order to entertain nursing home residents, Betty embraced life fully and fearlessly. She laughed loudly, loved deeply, and brought energy into every room she entered.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, William Moore; her brother, James Bell, Jr.;, and her son-in-law, Dwight Peters. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her children: Patricia Marion (Mike), Laura Rousseau (Steve), Kathryn Peters, and Michelle Camba (Gary); her eight grandchildren; and her 10 great-grandchildren, all of whom carry her spirit forward.

Dwayne Pickett, 69

Dwayne Douglas Pickett, of Aberdeen, died on February 18, 2026. A proud Marylander, Dwayne’s life reflected the strength, humility, and generosity of a true “salt of the earth” man. Dwayne found his greatest joy on the water. Whether he was fishing at sunrise, crabbing from his Jon boat, or relaxing aboard a cruise liner on vacation, the water was where he felt most at home. Those who knew him will remember the stories, the smiles, and the simple peace he found with a rod in his hand and the horizon in front of him.

Above all, Dwayne will be remembered for his fun-loving spirit and the way he made others feel welcome, valued, and cared for. His kindness left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation. His laughter was easy, his presence steady, and his heart always open.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leftridge Ben Hur Sr. and Leona; his brother, Ben Hur Jr.; and his sister Rebecca. He is survived by his loving wife, Joanne M. Pickett; his brothers Roger, John, and David; and his sisters Jane, Diane, Vicky, and Pamela. He also leaves behind his beloved Kristin; his “dearly loved as a granddaughter” Charlie; and a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cherished friends whose lives were made brighter by knowing him.

Kevin Redman, 60

Kevin Wayne Redman of Laurel passed away on January 5, 2026. Born in Washington, DC, Kevin spent most of his life in Laurel. After graduating from Johns Hopkins University with a degree in physics, he spent a 36-year career at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, where he worked on missions that quite literally changed how we see the universe. Most notably, he contributed to the Hubble Space Telescope mission, helping to build something that outlasts him, quietly orbiting above the Earth and expanding humanity’s knowledge of outer space.

One of Kevin’s greatest passions was his 46 years of service with the Civil Air Patrol, serving in various positions at Maryland Wing Headquarters and the Howard Cadet Squadron. He was deeply committed to search and rescue missions, emergency preparedness, and community outreach; he loved to teach and mentor others, sharing his knowledge and encouraging curiosity, preparedness, and service. Civil Air Patrol was more than volunteer work for Kevin; it was a place where his love of learning, discipline, and helping others came together.

Kevin is survived by his father, Elza Redman; his siblings Keith Redman, Terri Taylor (John), and Mark Redman (Samantha); and 10 nieces and nephews.

George Schaab, Jr., 96

George Thomas Schaab, Jr., passed away on January 31, 2026, just two days shy of his 97th birthday. Born and raised in South Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, George was the third of five children. A deeply patriotic man, he enlisted in the U.S. Army at just 17 years old and served a distinguished 22-year military career, during which he served as a translator and intelligence analyst and received numerous awards. He was deployed to Asia and France and stationed in New York, Washington, and California. While in France, he met his wife, Denise; they married in 1952 and had two daughters, Corinne and Michelle.

A strong believer in higher education, George continued to pursue his academic goals, taking courses and earning college degrees while serving in the military. After retiring from the Army in 1968, George worked as a counselor at the George G. Meade Army Education Center. He also dedicated time at his daughter’s high school, serving as a track and field coach.

George spent 58 years in the Laurel area. An American Legion member for more than 70 years, he served as Legion Commander for about 10 years, and continued to chair and attend both official and informal Legion meetings—at both the local and national levels—In his later years. He enjoyed being active in his community and loved participating in social and community activities. For many years, he gathered with friends every Friday for lunch and drinks.

George was preceded in death by his wife, Denise; his daughter Michelle Brown; his brothers, Albert and Roy Schaab; and his sisters, Marie Radar and Doris Adams. He is survived by his daughter, Corinne Schaab Codjoe; her husband, Theophilus Codjoe; five grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

Michael Smith, 44

Michael Patrick Smith, of Centreville, died on December 13, 2025. Born in Laurel, Michael played sports with the Laurel Boys and Girls Club, was a member of St. Mary of the Mills Catholic Church, and was a 1999 graduate of St. Vincent Pallotti High School, where he was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his contributions on the soccer field.

Michael’s goal in life was simple: to live a happy, good life. He accomplished this through the family he and wife Alyssa built together: their move to the slower pace of the Eastern Shore, where they built a home; the traditions they held dear, especially annual family trips to the Outer Banks; and his enduring connection to family and friends. He worked hard at a job he was proud of, believing deeply in responsibility, providing for his family, and doing honest work. He was intentional about maintaining strong relationships and close ties with those who mattered most to him. Curious by nature, Michael formed genuine connections through conversation and made people feel seen, heard, and understood.

Michael is survived by his wife, Alyssa; his sons Kaleb and Michael II; his mother, Jo Ann Smith; his brother, Andrew Smith (Karen); his grandfather Francis Oakes; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, and a close circle of friends he considered family. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard A. Smith, Jr.

Betty Jean Thoreson, 94

Betty Jean Thoreson, a resident of Laurel for over 50 years, died on January 30, 2026, just 8 days shy of her 95th birthday. Born and raised in Minnesota, she worked as a teacher before marrying LeRoy F. Thoreson in 1957 and moving to Milwaukee, then eventually to Maryland. After being a full-time mother for 20 years, she returned to work as a bookkeeper for the Hecht Company, SCAN Furniture, and Ritz Camera.

After retiring in 1993, she traveled extensively and remained a fine cook, outstanding hostess, and excellent bridge partner well into her 80s. A member of St. Mary of the Mills church since 1970, she volunteered her time extensively, being involved in St. Mary’s Ladies of Charity, taking communion to nursing home residents, and cooking and serving meals at Elizabeth House and for the Catholic Terps. Over the years, she enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, who now range in age from 15 to 41, attending their sporting events, concerts, recitals, and other activities.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, LeRoy, and her sister, Ruth O’Donnell. She is survived by her six children and their spouses—Brian (Kathryn), Jeffrey (Reba), Gregory (Helene), Mark (Louise), Jeananne (Charlie), and Nancy (Tim)—as well as 14 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

Joyce Weir, 95

Joyce Virginia Weir, of Laurel, died on January 27, 2026. Born in Washington, DC, she worked for many years for the Department of the Navy as a civilian secretary, then the Naval Ordinance Lab and the Harry Diamond Lab, before retiring. She remained busy in retirement, helping to establish what is now called the Laurel Senior Friendship Club. She loved cats, traveling with friends and family, and crocheting, providing her granddaughters with crocheted clothes for their dolls.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Chalmers Jr. Weir, and a great-grandson. She is survived by her daughter, Deborah (Frank) Dorbert, and sons C. Gregory (AnnRae) Weir and Jonathan Weir, as well as five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Heaja Cho Wichman, 91

Heaja Cho Wichman, of Beltsville, passed away on December 29, 2025. Born in South Korea, she married Ernest Wichman in 1959. After his untimely death in 1967, Heaja came to the United States with their three sons and settled in Odenton, then later moved to Laurel, where she worked for the May Company at the Hecht department store in the Laurel Centre Mall. She remained a widow, working very hard and raising her sons on her own.  Retiring after 30 years in the workforce, she moved to Beltsville.

She was very active in Korean Christian churches, attending services regularly. She loved to cook, knit, crochet, and garden. She also enjoyed traveling, making trips to New York City, Nags Head, and Ocean City, among other places. She loved family celebrations and will be remembered for her faith and her great love for her family.

In addition to her husband, Heaja’s son Anthony and her five siblings preceded her in death. She is survived by sons Peter John Wichman and Ernest Patrick Wichman (Laurie), as well as four grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson, and several nieces and nephews, both in the U.S. and in South Korea.

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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.