Obituaries

Summer 2026

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Brian Bennett, 43

City of Laurel employee Brian Bennett died on April 19, 2026, as the result of a car accident. He was the son of Bob and Eileen Bennett, who raised him and his sister, Diane, in Laurel. He spent most of his life in Laurel and was known for being the quarterback at St. Vincent Pallotti High School. With a lifelong love of football and golf, he remained active in sports long after high school and college, forming lasting friendships through athletic leagues. He often used lessons from sports and competition to offer guidance and reinforce the importance of teamwork and resilience.

Brian joined Laurel’s Department of Public Works in 2017 and quickly became a respected, reliable colleague who went above and beyond his duties. Even after being promoted to a supervisory role, he could often be found working alongside his teams or taking on jobs himself. He was known for his professionalism, leadership, and friendly demeanor. Deeply committed to serving the residents of Laurel, Brian was memorialized by Mayor Keith Sydnor, who called his loss “heartbreaking for our city” and praised him for making a “lasting difference in Laurel… in ways that often go unseen but are felt every day.”

Director of Public Works Tim Miller added, “Brian was someone you could always count on. He led by example, took pride in his work, and earned the respect of everyone around him. His impact cannot be overstated. More importantly, he was simply a good man. He will be deeply missed.”

Beyond his service to the city, Brian was a devoted husband to Elizabeth and a proud father of their daughters, Stevie and Blake. He often shared videos of special family moments with his closest colleagues. His family described him as “the ultimate girl dad, singing along to Taylor Swift and playing princesses.” Brian will be remembered for his kind heart, unwavering loyalty, and the genuine care he showed to everyone he met.

Brenda Marie Blitz, 82

Brenda Marie (Souder) Blitz died peacefully on March 23, 2026, at her Laurel home. Brenda’s life was marked by compassion, humor, and an unwavering love for those around her.

A proud Bowie State University graduate, Brenda dedicated her career to shaping young minds as a kindergarten teacher for Glenelg Country School. Her quick wit and loving nature brought warmth to every classroom she entered, leaving an indelible mark on students, parents, and colleagues alike.

Brenda was a member of the Laurel Historical Society, the Laurel Garden Club, and the Rotary Club of Laurel, where she formed lifelong friendships.

She leaves behind her husband of 59 years, Jeffrey Blitz; daughters Rebecca and Janice Blitz; two granddaughters; her sister, Roberta Shaffer (Doug); nephew Steven Fultz (Stacy); and nieces Stephanie Shaffer and Genevieve Shaffer-Zorb (Danny). 

Carol May Carkhuff, 92

Carol May Carkhuff of Laurel passed away on April 20, 2026. Born in Kingston, Pennsylvania, she married and moved to Laurel, where she worked as a food service manager for Prince George’s County Public Schools for many years. She retired in 1998 to take care of her grandchildren and great-granddaughter, finding fulfillment in taking care of all her family and volunteering at her church.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Thomas; her six siblings (Gloria Ammerman, Harold Newman, Neil Newman, Raymond Newman, Irene Sorber, and Lee Newman); and a son-in-law, Christopher Jones.

She is survived by four children: Bliss Carkhuff (Kay), Mark Carkhuff (Ann), Sharon Carkhuff, and Carol Ann Dwonzyk (Michael); 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.

Jeffrey Richard Claudy, 43

Jeffrey Richard Claudy of Milton died suddenly on March 23, 2026. He was born in Cheverly, Maryland, grew up in Laurel, and graduated from Atholton High School.

Jeffrey proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy for four years as a submariner aboard the USS Bremerton based out of Bremerton, Washington. During his service years, he lived in Hawaii and San Diego, experiences that fueled his love for travel and exploration. Following his military service, Jeffrey worked as a body shop mechanic known for his skill, dedication, and work ethic. He also worked for six years at Surfing Crab Restaurant in Lewes, Delaware, where he built lasting friendships.

Jeffrey had a passion for life and enjoyed many hobbies, including golf, bowling, and poker. He was an adventurer at heart who loved to travel and had memorable experiences, including time spent in Thailand. He embraced life fully and cherished the moments he spent exploring new places and making memories with those around him.

He is survived by his parents, Michael and Penny Claudy; his siblings, Christopher Douglass (Terri, Bryan Claudy (Regina), and Joseph Claudy (Ashley); nine nieces and nephews; and a great niece.    

James Edward Dietsch, 78

Local coaching legend James Edward Dietsch died peacefully on March 31, 2026. Born in Baltimore, he was captain of both the lacrosse and football teams at Baltimore Polytechnic High School. He was a 1969 alumnus of the University of Maryland, playing lacrosse on three ACC championship teams and the 1967 NCAA national championship team. He served 3 years in the U.S. Army.

While watching Neil Armstrong walk on the moon in 1969, Jim proposed to college sweetheart Barbara Ann Yates. They married in 1970, spent a year in Germany on deployment, then returned to Maryland. After his Army service ended, Jim taught middle school in Montgomery County and then joined the University of Maryland sports program in 1972. There, he served in two coaching roles: as head men’s soccer coach from 1975 to 1980, he led the Terps to the 1976 NCAA Tournament and was named ACC Coach of the Year; and, as assistant men’s lacrosse coach from 1973 to 1978, he co-led the 1973 and 1975 NCAA championship teams. From 1981 to 1986, Jim was UM’s Assistant Athletic Director in Charge of Academic Affairs. The term “Be the Best” began during his time at UM and remains a motto and mantra for how he lived his life and mentored others, both on and off the field.

Jim then taught industrial arts and physical education at Thomas W. Pyle Middle School for over 20 years. He joined best friend Dave Mintzer in coaching championship lacrosse teams at Catonsville Community College and at numerous high school and youth lacrosse programs throughout Maryland. After retiring from teaching in 2007, he returned to collegiate coaching, first in South Carolina and then at Belmont Abbey College in North Carolina, leading that team to a Conference Carolina Tournament Championship and being named 2008 Coach of the Year. After his second retirement, Jim and Barbara moved to Delaware They traveled the world together, spent time with family and friends, and Jim—unsurprisingly—founded two local boys’ lacrosse programs.

In addition to Barbara, his wife of 56 years, he is survived by daughter Erika Mutchler (Keith) and son Kevin Dietsch (Ioana), as well as three grandchildren.

Roberta Hilt Fancher, 75

Roberta Hilt Fancher of Laurel died on April 15, 2026. Roberta grew up in Kentucky, graduating from Waggoner High School in Louisville in 1969 and earning a bachelor’s degree from Ohio’s Kenyon College in 1972. She returned to Kentucky to further her education, earning a master’s degree from Murray State College.

Roberta found her calling as a teacher, spending the rest of her life having a positive impact on her students. She taught within the Catholica Archdiocese of Baltimore and Washington, including at Mackin Catholic High School and Archbishop Carroll High School, before concluding her teaching career at Potomac High School in Oxon Hill.

Roberta’s husband, Richard Fancher, preceded her in death. She is survived by her sister, Mary Jo Jacobs, and a nephew, Charles Fancher.

Betty Anne Frederick, 92

Betty Anne Frederick passed away on May 22, 2026, at her home. Her husband of 69 years, local car dealership owner S.G. Fred Frederick, died on January 7, just shy of his 95th birthday.

Born and raised in Parsonsburg, Maryland, Betty Anne attended the University of Maryland, College Park, where she was a member of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. It was there, on a blind date, that she met Fred. They married six months later and made their home in Laurel, where Fred opened an auto dealership with Betty Anne’s support. Together they raised four children, who continue to run the family businesses. Betty Anne and Fred loved Laurel for its old town charm and the great people who became lifelong friends.

Although Fred was widely known in the community as an active civic leader, it was Betty Anne’s support that made everything possible. A model of grace and kindness, she was the foundation of the family—committed to raising her children and setting an example of a devoted mother and wife. She was known as an exceptional lady: polite, modest, selfless, and caring.

Betty Anne was an avid gardener and tennis player. She volunteered countless hours at local elementary and junior high schools. She and Fred shared a lifelong passion for the University of Maryland, supporting and attending events there with friends and family for over five decades. Together they cultivated innumerable friendships through celebrations and traditions; they were gifted at bringing people together.

She is survived by four children: Cynthia Frederick, F. Craig Frederick (Helen), Christopher Frederick (Karen), and Jeff Frederick (Janell); nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Betty Anne’s kindness and charity will endure through the legacy of the Fred Frederick Family Foundation.

Lauren Michelle Hageage, 43

Lauren Hageage of Laurel passed away in her sleep on April 24, 2026, of undetermined causes, after years of health challenges. Born in Baltimore to Cheryl and Charles Hageage Sr., Lauren lived her early adult life in Laurel, then moved to Hagerstown and finally to Frederick. She attended St. Mary of the Mills grade school, Pallotti High School, and the College of Notre Dame of Maryland, graduating with a criminology degree.

Lauren loved going to the beach to swim, collect seashells, or fish. She was an excellent cook—her family always talked about the 10-lb. lasagna or fresh salsa she would bring to gatherings. She loved roller coasters, horror movies, books, and traveling, and embraced any new place or thing. She loved animals, including her two rescue cats, the birds at her feeder, squirrels, or from time-to-time a raccoon looking for food. She always had a smile, even for the smallest of things. Fall was her favorite season.

She is survived by her parents and her two cherished brothers, Chas and Ben Hageage, along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

William Jay Knisley, Jr., 53

William “Jay” Knisley, Jr., died unexpectedly on March 17, 2026, at his home in Laurel. Known for his passion for helping others, Jay spent the majority of his professional life in the hospitality industry, working with various restaurant groups and as a dedicated member of the Infiniti HR team. He also loved serving on Work Camp mission trips. He built lasting relationships with coworkers and clients and brought integrity and kindness into everything he did.

Hospitality was not just something Jay practiced—it was who he was. He had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome, cared for, and valued. Whether hosting friends, supporting family, or simply being present, Jay made everyone feel like they mattered.

Jay was the beloved husband of Christine and the dedicated father of Elizabeth and Julia. He also leaves behind his mother, Barbara, and stepfather, Russell; parents-in-law Martha and Paul; siblings Donald, Jessica, Stephanie, and Aaron; grandparents Nick, Jean, and Wilbur; eight nieces and nephews; and many “bonus kids,” including Sara and Sam.

John Lawall, 71

John Wilson Lawall, Sr., of Savage, died on May 8, 2026. He was born in 1955 to Willard and Jeannette Lawall in Washington, DC. He retired from the Toyota Corporation in 2009.

John thoroughly enjoyed fast cars, motorcycles, and all gadgets known to man. He was passionate about his audio equipment and had quite the collection. He loved watching NASCAR and funny car races, and he attended many such events over the years. He loved his family dearly, especially his grandchildren.

He is survived by his two sons, John Lawall, Jr. and Michael Lawall; his ex-wife, Susan T. Barker; and four grandchildren.

Theresa June Marconi, 93

Theresa “June” Marconi, of Laurel, died on May 5, 2026, in Silver Spring. Born in Gallitzin, Pennyslvania, she moved to Laurel over 60 years ago, where she was a member of St Mary of the Mills Catholic Church and worked at Hecht’s for many years. She later joined the Laurel Senior Friendship Club, the Ladies of Charity, and the Red Hat Society. June was a loyal fan of the Redskins and Nationals and an avid bingo player. She loved to travel, but her greatest joy was spending time with her family.

June was preceded in death by her husband, Bud (Anthony Joseph), and her siblings: William “Jack,” Larry, Edna, Rita, Naomi, and Carol. She is survived by daughters Deborah Bowley (Edward) and Sharon Kowal, six granddaughters, and eight great-grandchildren.

Roland Lee Miller, 80

Roland Lee Miller, of Laurel, passed away on June 4, 2026, at Sinai Hospital. Born and raised in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, he served as a helicopter crew chief mechanic in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968 with the U.S. Marine Corps. He then worked for the General Services Administration as a manager for steam distribution before retiring.

Roland was a devoted family man and an active member of First United Methodist Church in Laurel, where his renowned sausage gravy was a highlight of any church breakfast. He served as a youth leader alongside his wife, Ann Marie. Roland also was a member of the Goshen Bears, a group of volunteers who regularly spent weekends performing routine maintenance and repairs at the Boy Scouts of America Goshen Scout Camp in southern Virginia. He will be remembered as a caring man with a sense of humor and a strong work ethic.

Roland was predeceased by his parents, Amos and Rosella Miller. He is survived by his wife of nearly 58 years, Ann Marie (Foster) Miller; sons Trevor Miller (Kelly) and Brandon Miller (Amy), all of Laurel; four granddaughters; sister Fran Morris; and brother Ted Miller.

Karen Louise O’Brien, 70

Karen Louise O’Brien died in Pensacola, Florida, on Friday, March 20, 2025. Born in Carlisle, Pennsylvania,  she grew up in Laurel’s Montpelier community and graduated from Laurel High School in 1973. She was a pom-pom girl and worked at the Rustler Restaurant alongside other LHS students.

A 1977 graduate of Marymount University, Karen worked for Neiman Marcus for many years. As an adult, she lived in Maryland, Texas, and Florida. At the time of her passing, she lived in Destin, Florida, and worked at The Logo Place.

Karen was preceded in death by her brother, Lt. Col Francis W. O’Brien Jr (Retd); and her sisters, Patricia Marie O’Brien and Mary A. Morris. She is survived by sister-in-law Sandy O’Brien, a nephew, four nieces, and many great-nieces and -nephews whom she adored.

Thomas Frederick Penn, 95

On March 15, 2026, Thomas Frederick Penn, Jr. entered eternal rest following a long life. Born in Akron, Ohio, he moved to Litchfield Park, Arizona, at age 13. He considered that era the best part of his life because it’s where he began his love of horses and golf.

Tom graduated from Shippensburg State College in Pennsylvania and earned a master’s degree in counseling from Penn State University. He retired from the Montgomery County (Maryland) Public School System after 32 years of service. The highlight of Tom’s career was coaching the 1964 Springbrook High School golf team to the Maryland State Championship.

Tom attended St. Philips Episcopal Church in Laurel. He was a 42-year member of the American Legion and a 65-year member of the Masons. He enjoyed his “McDonald’s Crew” and his Senior Center friends. He was a loving father to his daughter, Mary Penn-Soranno, and a good friend to all.

Nancy Jo Prior, 71

Nancy Jo Prior passed away in Jessup on May 2, 2026. A 1972 graduate of Laurel High School, she lived in Laurel and Savage for many years. She worked for the Howard County Public School System, retiring in 2014. She also lived for some time in California, both in the Bay Area and Los Angeles. She enjoyed going to the beach, hiking, reading, listening to music, and spending time with friends and family.

Nancy was a brain cancer survivor at the age of 46. Donations can be made in her name to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Nancy was preceded in death by a son, Raymond Prior, and brothers Tom and Kevin Padgette. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, George Prior; son Alex Prior (Megan); a grandson; five siblings; and many nieces and nephews.

Virginia Ann Russ, 85

Virginia Ann Russ died on April 29, 2026. Born in 1940, Virginia lived a life defined by caring for others, kindness, and dedication to family. A longtime resident of Howard County, she was a member of the Emmanuel United Methodist Church of Laurel and the Lovely Ladies of Laurel widows club. She served as a trip leader for the Howard County Senior Center for 20 years.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Russ. She is survived by her three sons—David, Steve and Chris Russ—as well as six grandchildren and her brother, Brian.

Sylvester Eugene Seymore, Jr., 77

Sylvester “Wess” E. Seymore died peacefully on May 30, 2026, after battling Parkinsons disease for over eight years. Wess lived in Laurel for 49 years and attended St. Mary of the Mills Catholic Church.

A 1966 graduate of Delone Catholic High School in McSherrystown, Pennsylvania, Wess later graduated from the Electronics Institute of Harrisburg and had a 52-year career as a computer technician at Univac/Sperry/Unisys.

Wess was an avid tennis player, competing in both singles and doubles matches in the Maryland and DC area for decades. He also owned a contracting business, remodeling and reselling homes.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Janet (Henschke); daughter Anita (Steve) and sons Scott (Debbie) and Jamie (Theresa); his mother, Henrietta; five siblings; four grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Christopher James Shoff, 101

Christopher James “Jim” Shoff died on May 23, 2026, just a few weeks after the passing of his wife, Norma. Born in Boswell, Pennsylvania, he worked at his parents’ grocery store while growing up. He served 2 years in the U.S. Army, then earned a degree in electrical engineering at Penn State. He moved to Laurel for a job at Westinghouse, where he worked until his retirement. He loved photography, travel, and computer technology, and he faithfully followed Penn State football his entire life.

In his seventies, Jim decided to learn ballroom dancing, which is where he met the former Norma Rellosa of Silver Spring. They later married and settled in Laurel, regularly attending the gym and socials at the Laurel Senior Center and dances at the Hollywood Ballroom in Silver Spring. In 2016, The National WW II Museum certified him by unanimous vote to be entered onto its Honor Roll in New Orleans in appreciation for his support as a charter member.

In the ensuing years, Jim and Norma weathered their health challenges together, with help from neighbors, friends, and acquaintances. Norma cared for him 24/7 until he entered hospice care at Sterling Care Hillhaven. Just two weeks later, Norma was hospitalized for surgery; she never fully recovered, and was placed in the same room as Jim at Sterling Care, where she died on April 15, 2026, while he was sleeping.

In addition to Norma, Jim was preceded in death by his older brother, William Donald Shoff; and his first wife, Erma (Beener) Shoff. He is survived by a stepdaughter, Monette Matish (Ted); and a niece, Carol Blough.

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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.