On behalf of the Maryland State Police Alumni Association, we sadly report the loss of one of “Maryland’s Finest,” Lt. Edward Smith Johnson, MDSP, Retired.
October 23, 1936 – January 11, 2024
Obituary for Edward Smith Johnson
Edward Smith Johnson of Ijamsville, MD, passed away peacefully at home surrounded in love in the late evening of January 11, 2024. He was born October 23, 1936 in Cumberland, MD to Francis and Kathryn (Smith) Johnson. He was 87 years old.
Edward moved from his home in Cumberland shortly after graduation from LeSalle High School to find work at the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel.
He was activated to the US Army for a short time during the Cuban Missile Crisis, then returned home and joined the Maryland State Police. While with the State Police he met his beloved wife, Mary Helen, during a traffic stop. They were soon married and enjoyed 43 years together until Helen’s passing in 2008. Retiring from the State Police at the age of 63 and never one to sit idle, he soon found a new sense of duty as a security officer at Buckingham’s Choice Retirement Community in Frederick where he served 18 years until his final retirement in 2018.
Ed remained active in his community and delighted in his friendships with other State Trooper alum, his wonderful neighbors, and their children who affectionately called him “Mr Ed.” He loved his many dogs, being outdoors in nature to feed the birds and squirrels, and looked forward to keeping up on current events every day with The Washington Post. He will be remembered for always generously being there for his family and friends, and serving his community.
Edward is survived by his beloved step-children, Brenda Loe and J.R. (Carol) Cash; granddaughters Laura (Richard), Jody, and Kathleen; brother Strephon and sister Laura Bennett; nieces Dana and Christina, and nephew Marcus; and his many great-grandchildren and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law Mike Loe, wife Mary Helen, and brother Bertram.
The visitation will be held from 11 am until 12 noon on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at Resthaven Funeral Home, 9501 Catoctin Mountain Highway Frederick, Maryland 21701, with the funeral service at 12 noon.
A celebration of life will be held at Dutch’s Daughter (581 Himes Ave, Frederick) from 1:30-4:30 pm following services at Resthaven.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to his friends, neighbors, and caregivers, Maria and Keri Ann, for their phenomenal support during his lengthy illness.
To visit the online Tribute wall go to
https://www.resthaven.us/obituaries/Edward-Johnson-96/#!/TributeWall
