We regret to inform you of the passing of one of “Maryland’s Finest,” Lt. Donald Carlyle Hash, MDSP Retired.
February 20, 1937 – November 29, 2025
OBITUARY
Donald C. Hash, 88, of Elkton, MD passed away on November 29, 2025. Born in Sugar Grove, VA on February 20, 1937, he was the son of the late Robert Carlyle and Pauline Lucy Barker Hash.
Donald graduated from Franklin High School in Reisterstown, Maryland, in June 1955. He proudly served two years in the U.S. Army before beginning his career in law enforcement. On July 2, 1962, he entered the Maryland State Police Academy, and after graduating, he was assigned to the North East Barracks. Throughout his distinguished career he served at several locations across the state, retiring in 1986 with the rank of Lieutenant.
Following his dedicated service with the Maryland State Police, Donald went on to work for the U.S. Postal Service, retiring in July 1994. Mr. Hash was a member of the Maryland Troopers Association and the Maryland State Police Alumni Association. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church of North East, and his deep faith in God guided every aspect of his life.
He was a kind and caring husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and friend. Donald enjoyed camping, wood carving, and vacationing with his family in Florida. He will be remembered for his lifelong commitment to duty, his generosity of spirit, and the love he shared with all who knew him.
Survivors include his loving wife of 40 years, Carol J. Hash; children; Donald I. Hash, Mary E. Thacker (Jim), John K. Hash (Cheryl), step son, Donald L. Hollenbaugh Jr. (Jackie); Goddaughter, Paula Dilks, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Joana “Jody” Kennedy, brothers; Ronald L. Hash, and Robert M. Hash; and sister, Barbara J. Balsamo.
SERVICES
Funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Hicks Home for Funerals, 103 W. Stockton Street, Elkton, MD 21921, with visitation beginning at 10 AM. Interment with military honors will be in Union Cemetery, Elkton, MD.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of North East, 206 Mechanics Valley Rd, North East, MD 21901.
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