St. Mary’s County businessman and former sheriff Benjamin Burroughs, Jr. passed away Friday. Burroughs was St. Mary’s County Sheriff for one term (1966-1970) just at a time when the county was on the cusp of growth. He also was owner of the Charlotte Hall Farmer’s Market and was a land developer.
Burroughs is survived by his children, Jerry of California, Michael (Heidi) of Mechanicsville, Anne (Tom) Wetzler of Baltimore and Mark of Leonardtown. He was preceded in death by his wife Joan and son Henry. He is also survived by six grandchildren, brothers Thomas and Phillip, Sr. and many other relatives.
His obituary quotes Burroughs as saying that work for him was a hobby. That was evident by the many jobs he held and businesses in which he was involved.
Burroughs was born in Leonardtown on July 25, 1933 to Benjamin H., Sr. and Louise Burroughs. He was predeceased by his brother Edward S. Burroughs, Sr.
Burroughs is the second former sheriff to pass away recently. Wayne Pettit died on November 21, 2014.
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office sent out notice of Burroughs’ passing with the message: “Rest in Peace & Thank you for your service.”
Visitation will be on Tuesday, January 6th from 3 to 5 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Brinsfield-Echols Funeral Home in Charlotte Hall. Funeral service will be Wednesday January 7th at 10 a.m. at All Faith Episcopal Church with interment following in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to All Faith Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 24, Charlotte Hall, MD 20622.