Dunkirk, MD – April 21, 2026 – Our hearts shatter as we mourn Wanda Hartley, 68, of Dunkirk, who tragically passed away Tuesday night in a two-vehicle crash on Solomons Island Road near Ducks Lane in Lothian. This obituary 2026 honors a remarkable woman taken too soon in a 7:35 PM collision involving a Ford F-350 and her Honda Accord, under investigation by Anne Arundel County Police Crash Reconstruction Team.
Born in Maryland on June 12, 1958, Wanda grew up in Dunkirk, weaving her life around family, faith, and community. A retired schoolteacher with 35 years at local elementary schools, she nurtured young minds with patience and passion, later volunteering at Dunkirk Senior Center.
Wanda was the loving wife of 45 years to Robert Hartley, devoted mother to sons James (Lisa) and Emily (widow of Mark), and adoring grandmother to seven grandchildren. Her warm, engaging personality—bubbly laugh, generous spirit, and unwavering optimism—drew everyone close. “Mom’s hugs healed everything,” her family shares.
Wanda’s achievements shone brightly: “Teacher of the Year” (2005), founder of Dunkirk Book Club, and active in St. Mary’s Episcopal Church choir. Her legacy endures in inspired students, strengthened families, and the quiet strength she embodied amid life’s sudden turns.
Funeral Arrangements and Celebration of Life
Funeral arrangements by Kalas Funeral Home, Edgewater. Visitation: Friday, May 1, 2026, 5-8 PM. Celebration of life service: Saturday, May 2, 2026, 11 AM, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 1182 St. Mary’s Church Rd, Dunkirk. Burial at Trinity Memorial Gardens. Livestream available. Donations to Dunkirk Education Fund.
Wanda’s light guides us still. Share memories at wandahartleymemorial.com. (296 words)