Anita Elaine “Laney” Birney, 77 of Marydel, DE and North East, MD, passed away Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at John's Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD.

Born in North East, MD, on April 24, 1940, she was the daughter of the late John and Alice (Lynch) Ritzel.  

Laney loved singing and was well-known for her “Amazing Grace”. She warmed hearts wherever she sang, throughout her lifetime. She also enjoyed reading, helping others, and joking and laughing with family. She was a loving wife and mother.

Survivors include her loving husband: David P. Birney, Sr., 5 children: David P. Birney, Jr. of Elkton, MD, Michelle D. Roop of Dover, DE, Michael S. Birney of Elkton, MD, Kerry F. Birney of Marydel, DE and Rachel E. Birney Stevens of Parkville, MD; 2 sisters: Linda Halsey and Mary Ann Crilley both of Elkton, MD; 1 brother: Alan Ritzel of North East, MD; 15 grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Laney was also preceded in death by her son: Kevin P. Birney and her brother: Barry Ritzel.

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, January 19, 2018 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm and again on Saturday, January 20, 2018 from 12:00 pm until 1:00 pm at Crouch Funeral Home, P.A., 127 South Main Street, North East, MD. Funeral services, conducted by Rev. Mark Johnston will begin at 1:00 pm following the Saturday visitation.

Interment will follow in Union Cemetery, Elkton, MD.

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