Harold Joseph Aziz, of Jarrettsville, Maryland, was born in Boston, Massachusetts on March 23, 1944, and passed away on May 17, 2026, in Bel Air, Maryland.

Harry was orphaned at birth alongside his twin sister, but through determination, grit, and unwavering perseverance, along with the most amazing sense of humor, he built a life marked by service, leadership, love, and generosity. Humble, persistent, and endlessly kind, Harry faced every obstacle head-on and refused to see himself as a victim of circumstance and instead created new benchmarks for what was possible through hard work and determination.

Harry’s professional life was equally remarkable. Harry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and Army Reserves, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant. Beginning his law enforcement career as a patrolman in the 1970’s, he rose through the ranks to become Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police at multiple colleges and universities. Harry was a skilled martial artist and helped to develop one of the first defensive tactics training for law enforcement officers and authored and published Police Procedure and Defensive Tactics Training Manual.

Harry married the love of his life, Patricia Anne (O’Driscoll), and together they built the family he always dreamed of—one grounded in compassion, resilience, and unconditional love. Alongside his wife, he opened his home and heart to many foster children from difficult circumstances, offering them safety, guidance, and belonging. His door was always open to anyone in need.

Yet for all his accomplishments, Harry’s favorite title was “Papa.” Nothing brought him greater joy than his grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Aside from being the best husband, father, and Papa, Harry was also a master bargain hunter, an experimental chef in the kitchen, and had many interests that he loved to share with his family and friends. Harry passed on recipes to his children and family and friends that are still a staple in their lives today.

Harry is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Patricia A. (O’Driscoll) Aziz. In addition to his wife, Harry is survived by his son Michael J. Aziz and his wife Sarah Aziz of Boston and their children John J. Aziz and Elizabeth G. Aziz; his daughter Kelly A. Trotochaud and her wife Jean Trotochaud of Moodus, Connecticut; his daughter Beth A. Nesbitt of Baltimore, Maryland and her son Evan A. Nesbitt of Aberdeen, Maryland; his daughter Katelyn O. Blevins and her husband Bobby J. Blevins III of Chestertown, Maryland and their children Julianne M. Blevins, Bobby J. Blevins IV, and Bennett J. Blevins; and his son Andrew J. Aziz and his wife Heather Aziz of Littlestown, Pennsylvania.

As Harry would always say, “Take care, have a pleasant day, and stay safe out there.”

Following the interment at the cemetery, all are invited to return to the Aziz residence for a time of fellowship and refreshments.