H. Edward Townsley, Jr.

H. Edward Townsley Jr., 100, of Churchville, MD, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 19, 2025. Born in Fallston, Maryland, Edward was the beloved son of the late Harry Edward Townsley Sr. and Helen (Ritter) Townsley.

He was the devoted husband of the late Anita Rowan Townsley, with whom he shared many wonderful years of marriage.

Ed is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Marcia Boccia; grandchildren, Douglas Boccia and his wife Amy, and Karen Boccia Davis and her husband Gary; and great-grandchildren, Emma Boccia, Brock Boccia, Adam Davis, and Meghan Davis.

He was preceded in death by his dear sisters Margaret Wilson and Gertrude Gabryszewski.

A proud veteran, Ed served with honor in both World War II and the Korean War. He was a member of the 41st 37th Heavy Maintenance and Tactical Division and served in the U.S. military from 1943 to 1945, and again from 1948 to 1953 during the Korean conflict. He served as a financial advisor while on active duty at Fort Meade and later at Bainbridge Naval Training Center.

Ed graduated from Bel Air High School in 1941 and was the last surviving member of his class. He went on to receive his CPA license in 1953 and earned his bachelor’s degree in 1964 from the University of Baltimore. He maintained an active CPA license at the remarkable age of 100.

Deeply involved in his community, Ed was a proud member of the American Legion Post 39 for 81 years and a long-time member of Bel Air United Methodist Church. His passions included world travel—particularly revisiting places he served during the war—gardening (especially vegetables), walking, attending performances by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and visiting the Decoy Museum in Havre de Grace.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 10 – 11 am at Bel Air United Methodist Church, followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 AM. Interment will take place at Darlington Cemetery later that day.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra or the National Wildlife Association.

Ed’s life was one of service, integrity, and love—his legacy will live on through his family and the many lives he touched.