Obituaries

Winter 2026

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Karen Beavers, 77

Karen Marjorie Beavers peacefully passed away on October 20, 2025, with her husband at her bedside. Born on November 2, 1947, to James Walter McQuaid and Marjorie Lois Fullerton, Karen lived her entire live in Laurel. She was a member of St Philip’s Episcopal Church, graduated from Laurel High School and the University of Maryland with a degree in psychology, and studied pastoral counseling at Loyola University.

Karen served as a volunteer domestic violence counselor at HopeWorks in Columbia, Maryland. She also volunteered as an art teacher at her son’s elementary school.

Karen loved writing poetry and received many awards for her work, which was published in several anthologies. She also authored eight children’s books, published in both English and Spanish—two which were featured in the December 2017 issue of The New York Review of Books. In addition, Karen was a member of ASCAP and wrote and produced two gospel songs, “Overwhelming Love” and “He is Ever Near.”

Through her own trials living with fibromyalgia, Karen became an advocate for fibromyalgia patients, lobbying former Governor Parris Glendening and the Maryland legislature to designate May 12, 2002, as State Fibromyalgia Awareness Day. She also convinced former Laurel Mayor Craig A. Moe to establish a City of Laurel Fibromyalgia Awareness Day.

She is survived by her husband of almost 35 years, Edd George Beavers, Jr.; sons William Andrew Kowalski, Charles Alexander Kowalski, and Edward James Kowalski; granddaughters Lily, Kendall, and Marley; grandsons Hunter, Andrew, Zachary, and Noah; and great-grandsons Cameron and Axle. She was preceded in death by stepson Edward Beavers, III.

Deborah Carr, 65

Deborah Marie Carr passed away at her home in Laurel, surrounded by loved ones, on November 26, 2025. Born on June 13, 1960, to Joseph and Alice Kohlman in Baltimore, Deborah graduated from Towson University in 1985. She began her occupational therapy career with the Prince George’s County Public Schools that same year, and dedicated 30 years to helping children with disabilities.

Deborah loved to travel, especially to Switzerland. She also enjoyed yearly trips to Swallow Falls and the beach. She had a great sense of humor and could often be found laughing. Deborah enjoyed helping others, celebrating Christmas with her family, and, most of all, being a nana to, and going on adventures with, her grandchildren.

Deborah will be remembered as the most loving wife, mom, nana, aunt, sister, daughter, and friend.

She is survived by Matthew Cody Carr, her husband of 39 years; children Josh, Amy, and Jacob; son-in-law Muhammad; grandchildren Mira, Logan, and Elijah; and brother Joseph Kohlman. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Karin Evans.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society. 

Grace Elaine Catchings, 82

Grace Elaine Catchings quietly and peacefully departed this earthly life on September 21, 2025. She born on December 21, 1942, in Milledgeville, GA, to the late Magdalene and Samuel O’Neal Saulsbury, Jr.  After high school, Grace completed three years of nursing training at Winston-Salem University in North Carolina, then studied at Morris Brown for a year. Grace moved to Detroit, MI, where she worked as a ward clerk at Grace Memorial Hospital and then as a Head Start teacher at Holy Redeemer of the St. Bernard’s Catholic School in Detroit, after earning a B.A. in Education from Wayne State University in 1968.

While attending Wayne State, Grace met Robert Catchings, a graduate student in physics. One semester, Grace was struggling with physical sciences course, so she looked up Robert to ask for help after hearing about a “brother” teaching a section of the course. They married in August 1970, the same year Robert obtained his Ph.D. in Physics.

When Robert was hired as an assistant professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Howard University, the couple moved to Maryland. Grace began what eventually became a career of over 3 decades as a teacher in the Prince George’s County Public School System. She first taught at Rogers Heights Elementary School in Bladensburg, then later worked at three other county schools: James McHenry Elementary in Lanham; Yorktown Elementary in Bowie; and Bond Mill Elementary in Laurel. Grace continued her own education by completing about 30 hours of post-graduate studies at Bowie State University.

The couple moved to Laurel in 1975, shortly after their first son, Robert IV, was born. Their other son, Gregory, was born in 1981. The boys were introduced to organized sports at an early age and were involved with the Laurel Boys and Girls Club, playing baseball, basketball and soccer. The family attended St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, where Grace ensured the boys attended Sunday school and participated in children’s’ church programs. The boys also were active in Cub Scouts, played sports in high school, and excelled academically.

Grace served in many community organizations over the years, often holding leadership positions. She joined the Librans, Jack and Jill of America, and the Columbia Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She served as chairperson for the Scholarship Committee for Maryland State Delegate Brian Moe and worked with Laurel’s Side by Side organization to promote children’s success in the classroom. Grace was also very active at St. Mark’s, serving as Superintendent of Christian Education and Director of Vacation Bible School. She organized several Debonair Ball activities, participated in the senior choir, and was a devoted member of the United Women of Faith. She became known as the “Mother of the Church,” having made a major impact on its children.

Grace also became known as the “Mother of Bond Mill,” where she was lauded as an exceptional and outstanding teacher. She received the Prince George’s County Outstanding Educator Award for her positive influenced on not only the students, but also the teachers, staff, and parents of Bond Mill Elementary. She was known for her dynamic personality, her bright and beautiful smile, and her gentle, patient, and kind manner. She made every child feel special and cherished, motivated even the most challenging student to succeed, and found ways to help children who were experiencing academic or social challenges. She mentored student teachers and newly hired teachers, participated in (and often organized) school-wide academics and social projects, served as Social Studies Coordinator and grade-level chairperson, and worked with multicultural educational activities as a Diversity and Equity Liaison.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her husband of 55 years, Robert M. Catchings III; sons Robert IV (Nicole) and Gregory Catchings; grandsons Robert V (Khamoy) and Donovan (Ana); brothers Willie Saulsbury and Joseph Saulsbury (Beverly); sister-in-law Cheryl Catchings; three great-grandsons; cousins Wylene Jones, Janet Pargo, Eddie Butts, Jerome Watts, and Brenda Jackson; nephews, nieces, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Laurence Dash, 60

Laurence Kwabena Dash passed away in Laurel, Maryland on September 3, 2025.

He was born in Georgetown, Guyana, in April 1965. He went to high school in Brooklyn, NY, and then enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served for several years before an honorable discharge. After his military service, Laurence joined the federal government as a civil servant, retiring from the National Science Foundation as a lead cost analyst in 2021. Laurence earned degrees in accounting and divinity and delivered sermons as a guest preacher at churches in the region. Laurence also loved painting and drawing, traveling, taking care of his cats, and spending time with family and friends.

Laurence is survived by his mother, Sheila Dash; his sister, Michele Dash-Pauls; his nephews, Marcus Pauls and Eric Pauls; his brother-in-law, Barry Pauls; and many extended family members and friends.    

Leroy Dodgson, 74

Leroy G. Dodgson, of Maryland City, left his loving family and friends on October 19, 2025.

He was born on December 28, 1950, to Leroy and Blanche Dodgson. He graduated from Anne Arundel High School in 1968 and received an Associate Degree of Criminal Justice at Anne Arundel Community College in 1985. He joined the Navy and served from 1971 to 1974, receiving a National Defense Service Medal, a Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Star, and a Combat Action Ribbon; he departed with an honorable discharge. Leroy then served in a 26-year career the National Security Agency (NSA), continuing his service there part-time for 14 years after retirement.

Leroy was a member of American Legion Post 60, the Elk Lodge, the Moose Lodge, and Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. (VFW). He was a great supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project. He was a member of the Anne Arundel Community College Alumni Association.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, James “Jimmy” Dodgson. Leroy is survived by daughter Amanda (Denver) Nance; son Charles Dodgson (Kara Mabe); and seven grandkids to whom he was “Pawpaw Butch”: Mackenzie, Logan, Jesse Ray, Abbigail, Isabell, Austin, and Landon Nance. He also leaves behind many friends and fellow members of American Legion Post 60.

Louise Marie Van Matre Donaldson, 100

Louise Donaldson passed away on January 14, 2026, just a few weeks after celebrating her centennial birthday. Louise was born in Washington, DC to the late Hiram Heaton and Ella Marie Van Matre. She grew up on the family farm in Berwyn Heights with her sister, Adeline. The sisters were orphaned at a young age and went to live with relatives. Louise went on to work in DC at a cartographer’s office, then later at a bank.

Louise met and married DeWitt Donaldson, and soon began helping at the funeral home that DeWitt started in May 1931 in Laurel. Together they operated the funeral home and grew the business, moving it and their home from Main Street to the current location on Talbott Avenue in the early 1950s. They raised a family—daughter Diane and son Jay—in the residence above the business.  After DeWitt’s health forced him into retirement in the mid-1980s, Louise continued to operate the funeral home and, under her management and leadership, the business continued to grow, eventually expanding to three funeral homes. She  maintained her mortician’s license through the time of her death; it had one of the lowest license numbers in the entire state, M00160.

Active in the community Louise was a member of the Soroptimist Club of Laurel and volunteered with numerous events throughout the city and surrounding area. She was often found eating lunch, and discussing  current events, at Gavrile’s Soda Shop or Dougherty’s Pharmacy after a trip to Citizen’s National Bank. Louise had a fondness for the food, and especially the companionship, at Ma's Kettle in Savage, often eating there four to five times a week.

Louise enjoyed bowling, dancing, and participating in various activities with her children. She often took day trips with her children and a variety of their friends. Louise also loved to travel; she visited Austria, Hawaii, and numerous other states.

Louise is survived by daughter Diane J. Donaldson (David Choat); son DeWitt Jay Donaldson; grandchildren Cullen (Chelsea) Donaldson, Kaitlyn Donaldson, Meghan Donaldson, Koob Choat, Lauren Donaldson, and Ashlyn Donaldson; and great-grandchildren Ashton, Presley, Layla and Lukas. Louise is also survived by her dear sister, Adeline Veneman.

Patricia “Pat” Irene Elliott, 87

Patricia “Pat” Irene Elliott, a lifelong Laurel resident, passed away in hospice care on October 31. Pat was predeceased by her parents, Benjamin Elliott Sr and Marguerite (King) Elliott; her brother, Benjamin Elliott Jr, and sister-in-law Jane Elliott. Pat is survived by her sister, Marguerite Duke (John), of Salisbury, MD; nephew Steve Elliott, of Frederick, MD; niece Kim Elliott (Don), of Laurel, MD; nephew John Elliott (Amy), of New York; nephew Chris Duke (Bronwyn), of Pennsylvania; niece Lauren Lasch (Brian), of California; and great-nieces and -nephews Delaney, Quinlyn, Madeline, Elliott, Parker, James, Reese, and Charlotte.

Pat was born in Annapolis, MD, and lived in Laurel her entire life. She attended Laurel Elementary School and graduated from Laurel High School in 1956. After graduation, Pat pursued a career with the Washington, D.C., Government Department of Health and Human Services, before retiring in 1993.

Pat was a lifelong active member of First United Methodist Church of Laurel, where she taught Sunday school, served on the Altar Guild and Memorials Committee, and sang in the Chancel Choir. Pat was also dedicated to serving the Pythian Sisters as a member and held many offices within the charity. She was a lifetime member of the Laurel Volunteer Rescue Squad Auxiliary and firmly believed contributing to the community was very important. Pat enjoyed many hobbies, including crafts, crocheting, and playing piano.

Pat enjoyed remarkable, loving relationships with her entire family and will be remembered for her passion for giving back to the community and her constant kindness toward others, including family, friends, and church family.

A memorial service was held at First United Church of Laurel on November 4, followed by interment at Meadowridge Memorial Park, in Elkridge, MD.

S.G. Fred Frederick, 94

S.G. “Fred” Frederick Jr., 94, passed away on January 7, 2026. He was born on February 4, 1931.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Anne Frederick; his children, Cynthia Frederick, F. Craig Frederick Sr. (Helen), Christopher Frederick (Karen), and Jeff Frederick (Janell); and his grandchildren, F. Craig Frederick Jr. (Kelsey), Allison Frederick (RJ), Samantha Frederick, Hunter Frederick, Brooke Frederick, Jenna Frederick, Jackson Frederick, Jayci Frederick, and Jillian Frederick. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Harlan, McKinnley, Rhett, and Levi.

Born and raised in Coldwater, Michigan, Fred attended Michigan State University before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. Following an honorable discharge as a sergeant, he settled in Hyattsville, Maryland, where he developed an interest in the automotive industry—first as a mechanic and later as a salesman. While working at Lustine Chevrolet, Fred met Betty Anne Jackson, a student at the University of Maryland. They married in 1956 and made their home in Laurel, Maryland.

In 1959, Fred opened a DeSoto-Plymouth dealership that would later become Fred Frederick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, which continues to operate today. Fred and Betty Anne raised their four children while becoming deeply involved in numerous local organizations and civic causes.

Over his 94 years, Fred touched countless lives—friends, employees, customers, and associates alike. His achievements and recognitions were many. Among them, he was named Time Magazine Dealer of the Year in 1995, Prince George’s County Civic Federation Man of the Year, Prince George’s County Journal Man of the Year, and recipient of the 1999 Northwood University Dealer Education Award.

Fred’s memberships and leadership roles reflected his deep commitment to community, education, and service. These included the Hyattsville and Laurel Lions Clubs; Hyattsville and Laurel Chambers of Commerce (President); Laurel Board of Trade (Chairman); University of Maryland Terrapin Club (President); University of Maryland M Club; University of Maryland Education Foundation; Governor’s Executive Advisory Board; Laurel Federal Savings Board; Citizens Financial Board; Columbia Country Club; Greater Laurel Hospital Board (Chairman); Chrysler National Dealer Council (Chairman); Republican Senatorial Inner Circle; and the Washington Auto Show Board (Chairman).

Fred and Betty Anne shared a lifelong passion for the University of Maryland, serving as football and basketball season ticket holders and donors for more than 60 years. Fred also held a deep affection for Old Town Laurel, which he supported through sustained activism and leadership.

While family was central to their lives, Fred and Betty Anne also fostered enduring friendships and joyful traditions. From the Kentucky Derby and Fourth of July celebrations to ACC tailgates, the Fredericks brought people together and made every occasion memorable.

Fred Frederick was a principled son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. His commitment and loyalty were unsurpassed and will endure through the legacy established by the Frederick Family Foundation. While he will be deeply missed, his influence, stories, memories, and life philosophies will remain with all who knew him.

Sherry Frost, 63

Sherry Frost of Laurel passed away peacefully on October 2, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and creativity. Born on March 7, 1962, in Pella, Iowa, to Henry and Donna Rooda, Sherry was a devoted daughter, sister, and mother, cherished by family and friends.

Sherry is survived by her beloved son, Eric Frost, her fiancé, Dennis Lynn, her sister, Laura Rooda Dunsbergen, and her brother, Greg Rooda. She was a guiding light in their lives, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a listening ear.

Growing up in Pella, Sherry developed a passion for nurturing and caring for others, which she carried throughout her life. She spent a significant part of her journey in Siler City, North Carolina, where she worked as a manager at “Three Springs,” a camp for troubled teens. There, she became a motherly figure to many young boys, providing them with comfort, support, and a warm meal. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond the camp, as she was always ready to assist neighborhood children, ensuring they felt loved and cared for.

In 1999, Sherry moved to Maryland, where she continued to cultivate her artistic talents. She became a skilled florist, working at Flowers Extraordinaire by Stephen in Linthicum Heights for several years. She was also an event planner, using her creativity to bring joy to others through beautifully crafted events. Her love for crafting and planning dinners was matched only by her desire to ensure that everyone around her was happy and enjoying themselves.

Sherry’s warmth and generosity touched the lives of many, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she helped and inspired. She was a beacon of light, always ready to share her love and kindness with the world. Her memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Sherry’s name, continuing her legacy of compassion and care for those in need.

Shirley Haywood, 85

Shirley Haywood died on November 14, 2025 in Laurel. Born on February 3, 1940, in Westernport, MD, she was the daughter of John Salesky and Florence (Montgomery) Salesky. She met the love of her life, Richard, while growing up in Westernport; together they shared a lifetime of adventure.

The couple moved to Laurel, where Shirley worked for C&P Telephone for over 30 years before retiring in 2000. A woman of a deep and abiding faith, she was a longtime member of St. Mary of the Mills Church in Laurel, MD. She lived her beliefs with quiet strength and deep devotion, offering kindness to others in ways big and small.

She especially loved college basketball and cheered faithfully for the University of Maryland Men’s and Women’s basketball teams. She and Richard loved to travel. Together they explored over 20 countries, often finding joy in the unexpected. On one unforgettable trip to Scotland, she even crossed paths with Queen Elizabeth in a small bookstore.

Karen’s greatest joy was her family. She leaves behind her two daughters, Penny and Danielle, who will forever carry her love and example in their hearts; her cherished grandchildren, Michael, Joey, Elisabeth, Sam and Nick; and her sons-in-law, Jerry Burke and Tommy Huber, whom she adored.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and siblings Ralph, Don, Carl, William, and Mary.

Craig Heist, 66

Craig Brian Heist of Laurel passed away October 10, 2025. He was born in 1959 to Charles Heist and Arlene Mickolite Heist in Baltimore, Maryland. He was a graduate of Kenwood High School and Salisbury University.

Craig worked at WKHI in Ocean City and later moved to Washington, D.C., where he worked for Radio Martí, WTOP, and WJFK. He covered sports in the greater Baltimore-Washington area for local radio stations and networks such as SiriusXM and ESPN Radio. When not covering sports, he enjoyed watching sports, watching movies, and spending time with friends and family.

He is survived by his wife Suzanne, his sister Susan Robertson-Starr, three nieces (Samantha, Christina, and Claire), and his nephew Chuckie.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his three brothers: Harold, Marty, and Chuck.

Memorial donations can be made to LUNGevity Foundation and the American Diabetes Association.

Dora Long, 94

Dora Jo Long passed away in Laurel, Maryland, according to an obituary posted online dated September 2, 2025. She was born on April 18, 1931, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, daughter of Rodgers and Mary Tidwell. She lived in many cities including Fort Hood, Texas, Fort Belvoir, Virginia, Panama Canal Zone, and Fort Meade, Maryland. She worked as a childcare provider in her home for many years before retiring.

Dora was a member of the Community United Methodist Church, the Laurel Senior Friendship Club, the Red Hats and the Ladies Auxiliary at Maryland City Volunteer Fire Department. She enjoyed bowling in leagues and traveled to many states to participate in tournaments. Dora traveled on many bus trips all over the U.S. and Canada. Her interests were playing bingo and playing cards with her friends. She had a great love of animals and always had four or five pets at a time.

Dora Long is survived by her daughter, Linda Susan Jeffries (Michael); grandchildren Rebecca Barth, (Joseph Barth), Sarah Jeffries, and Kirstin Sharp (Andrew); great-grandsons Timothy Barth, Kyle Barth, Leagan Sharp, and Ellis Sharp; niece Raye Brooks (Mike); great-nieces Virginia Stoneback (Jason) and Angela McPeak (Greg); and great-great nephew Miles. Dora was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas E. Long, and their son, Edward K. Long.

Ruth Ann Miles, 83

On December 22, 2025, Ruth Ann Miles (née Wachter) passed away at Casey House in Rockville, MD. She was born on May 28,1942 in Frederick, Maryland to her now late parents Bruce Wachter and Louise Wachter (née Baker).

Ruth Ann worked alongside her husband, William “Bill” Miles, Jr., for many years, as they owned and operated the Laurel Meat Market on Main Street in Laurel. She always had a smile on her face and a warm welcome to all who came to the market.

Ruth Ann was preceded in death by her late husband, William “Bill” Miles, Jr., and her son Christopher Scott Miles. She is survived by her loving son Brian L. Miles Sr. and daughter-in-law Melinda Miles, she was a loving grandmother to Tricia Wills; Tony & Mayra Kreuger, Brian Miles Jr., Zack Miles and Christopher Miles. She was a loving sister to Bonnie Krammer (Chuck), Brucie Lindsey (Bruce), Mary Sue Patton (Tom), Norma Lee Fleming (and her late husband Howard).

Ruth Ann was the matriarch with a big heart and caregiver to all. She was a devoted wife and mother who loved her family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Ruth Ann’s memory to Casey House Hospice 6001 Muncaster Mill Rd, Rockville, MD 20855

Mesame Cynthia Ndape, 37

Mesame Cynthia Ndape of Laurel passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025. Born on March 15, 1988, in Tiko, Cameroon, Cynthia was the beloved daughter of Isaac Etube and Pisang Maureen Mbwoge. Cynthia graduated from Presbyterian High School in Kumba, Cameroon, and later earned a finance degree from Cambridge University in Buea, Cameroon.

Cynthia worked as an accountant for the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon from 2010 to 2019. In pursuit of new opportunities, she migrated to the United States in 2019. She joined the U.S. Army National Guard in 2020 and balanced various jobs while studying for her Cybersecurity certification. Her dedication led her to a successful career as a cybersecurity analyst with ICS Nett, where she worked until her passing.

A devoted Christian, Cynthia found joy in traveling, singing, dancing, and spending time with loved ones. Her warmth, resilience, and vibrant spirit touched many lives. She is survived by her mother, two brothers, cousins, and a host of dear friends. She was preceded in death by her father and her grandmother, Mispah Njume.

Clifton Shipe, 74

Clifton Bryant Shipe, affectionately known as Cliff, departed from this world on October 31, 2025, leaving behind a tapestry of cherished memories woven through decades spent in the sunlit corridors of life. Born on March 4, 1951, in the verdant embrace of Maryland, Cliff’s journey was marked by unwavering dedication and a warmth that enveloped everyone fortunate enough to know him.

As a trusted clerk at the Laurel Post Office, Cliff stood at the heart of the community, a steady presence whose gentle smile and kind words often brightened the days of those around him. His commitment to service extended beyond his profession, resonating in the lives he touched daily. Cliff understood the value of connection, building friendships that blossomed throughout his life. He became a familiar face, a listening ear, and a guiding hand for many.

Educated at Laurel High School, Cliff’s formative years laid the foundation for a strong character imbued with resilience and compassion. These traits were magnified as he navigated the intricacies of family life with his beloved wife, Deborah Shipe. Together, they cultivated a nurturing home, rich with laughter and love—a sanctuary against the ebb and flow of life’s trials.

Cliff is mourned by Deborah, who remains a steadfast companion in the echo of their shared dreams and aspirations. His legacy continues through the lessons he imparted and the love he freely gave. He joins his father, Charles Warren Shipe, and his mother, Margaret Juanita Rose Shipe, in a realm beyond this earthly tapestry, where families reunite, and the bonds of love are eternally celebrated.

A visitation to honor Cliff’s life was held at Donaldson Funeral Home on November 14, 2025. Cliff’s friends and family gathered to share stories, embrace memories, and find solace together in the shared light of a life well-lived.

In a world that can sometimes feel chaotic, Clifton Shipe was a beacon of consistency and joy, reminding us all that kindness and connection are the true currencies of a life fully realized. As we bid farewell, we embrace the legacy left behind—a legacy illuminated by love, laughter, and the indelible mark of one man’s spirit.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Clifton Shipe’s memory to The American Heart Association or American Syringomyelia Association.

Francis Werle, 68

Francis Michael Werle, known affectionately as “Frank” to his friends and loved ones, passed away on November 22, 2025. He was a loving and proud father, grandfather, and brother who filled his family’s lives with love, laughter, and countless memories.

Frank was born in Washington, DC on October 17, 1957, to George and Roberta Werle. He is survived by brothers and sisters Steve Werle (Lynn), Sue Falls (Cy), Kathy Mellott (Michael), Karen Berger (Ed), Jodi Sawyer (Walt), Tom Werle (Paola) and Rebecca Beruete (Brian). His siblings shared a close bond, spending holidays and summer vacations together. Frank enjoyed a successful career in sales, where his outgoing nature and easy conversation could brighten anyone’s day. He spent decades forming connections and taking pride in a career that allowed him to meet people from all walks of life.

Frank’s family was the center of his universe. He is survived by his five daughters: Lisa Klein, Jessica Gray Neal (Justin), Kristy Gast (Gregg), Chelsea Donaldson (Cullen), and Cassidy Werle (Larry). He was also a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren. He loved nothing more than a day at the beach, good music, and a Redskins win. He will be remembered for his fun-loving spirit, his humor, and his deep love for the people he cared about. His joy was a gift his family will carry with them always.

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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.