It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Life Member, Past President, and current Board of Director Luther A. Della, Jr.
President Della was both figuratively and literally a giant of a man—one whose presence, wisdom, and heart left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

For over 50 years, he faithfully served our department and our community, leading with strength, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the values of brotherhood, service, and sacrifice.

Beyond his remarkable leadership, Luther was a teacher and mentor who instilled in countless members the true art of service to others. His legacy is woven not only into the history of our department but into the lives of those he guided, supported, and inspired.
While we mourn his loss, we are deeply grateful for the many lessons he shared and the enduring example he set.

His legacy of dedication, integrity, and compassion will continue to live on in the generations of firefighters and community members he impacted.

We ask that you keep Luther's family, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

FUNERAL ANNOUNCMENT

Luther Della, Jr. 82 of LaPlata, MD was called home to rest on Sunday September 14, 2025.

Luther was born on July 3, 1943, in LaPlata, MD to the late Luther Della, Sr. and Mary Estelle Della. He is also proceeded in death by his brother, Edward Della and his sister, Linda Della.

Luther is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Della; son, Drew Della, III (Tammi); daughter, Lisa Fluharty (Jason); sisters, Catherine Gottlied, Barbara Maas, Emily Hogue and Irene Meader; grandchildren, Andy Della, IV (Ashley), Michael Della (Natalie Molvin), Zackary McGuire (Izzy Ayers), Parker McGuire and Lillian McGuire; great grandchildren, Kameron Della and Aubree Della. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Luther is a life member and past president of the LaPlata Volunteer Fire Department and was currently on the Board of Directors.

Luther was married to his beloved wife and best friend Elizabeth for 58 years. When he wasn't working or volunteering at the fire dept he could be found cutting grass, which he loved to do. Luther worked hard his entire life with a work ethic that couldn't be beat. He owned a local construction company, Della and Sons Excavating, with his son Drew where he continued to work as an estimator.

Nothing meant more to Luther than his family. He loved the fact that all his family lives together on the family farm.

Luther never met a stranger and made a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. He will be greatly missed by all.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 2-4:00 pm and from 6-8:00 pm at the LaPlata Volunteer Fire Department (911 Washington Ave. LaPlata, MD 20646). Funeral Service will be held on Friday, September 26, 20025 at 11:00 am at the LaPlata Volunteer Fire Department. Interment will be at Trinity Memorial Gardens (3221 Mattawoman Beantown Rd. Waldorf, MD 20601).

Memorial contributions may be made to the LaPlata Volunteer Fire Department (P.O. Box 728 LaPlata, MD 20646) or St. Jude's (501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105).

Online condolences may be shared with the family at arehartechols.com