Edward Ridgely Rote, 59, of Mt. Vernon, Maryland, passed away peacefully at his home on September 5, 2026.

Born in Baltimore County, Maryland, Ed was a talented craftsman, devoted husband, loving father, and a friend who was always willing to lend a hand. He was a Master Carpenter with an extraordinary eye for craftsmanship, detail, and quality. His talent was evident in everything he built, and through his commercial and residential construction business, he left his mark on countless homes, buildings, and projects.

Ed was happiest near the water. He loved boating and fishing on the Wicomico River, hunting, and traveling to the Florida Keys. In his spare time, you could often find him sitting at the end of his dock, listening to Jimmy Buffett, taking in the river views and beautiful sunsets, or enjoying time at the Wicomico Yacht Club Tiki Bar.

Ed was a member of Asbury Methodist Church in Mt. Vernon and served on the Board of Governors at the Wicomico Yacht Club. He had also recently joined the Redmen’s Tony Tank Tribe 149.

Those who knew Ed knew that he was always willing to lend a hand. He was the person who would stop what he was doing to help an incoming boater get safely to the dock, repair something that needed fixing, or find a quick solution when someone had an immediate need. He gave his time, his knowledge, and his talents freely, never expecting anything in return.

Above all else, Ed cherished his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Jody, with whom he shared 34 years together and 27 years of marriage. Their life together was filled with love, hard work, adventures, dreams, and plans for the future. Though there were still so many dreams they had hoped to share, the life they built together was one of deep love and devotion.

Ed absolutely cherished his daughter, Melanie Sharpley, more than words could ever describe. He was incredibly proud of her and treasured every moment they shared. He loved her husband, Jordan, dearly, and was grateful for all the love, care, and support Jordan gave him.

Ed was the son of Malcolm Rote and Kathleen Gorman. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jody; his daughter, Melanie Sharpley and her husband, Jordan; his sisters, Stephanie “Shelly” Grimm (Chris), and Nancy “Becky” Hawk (Scott); brother-in-law, Richard Traband (Lisa); nephews William Hawk (JoAnna)and Tanner Hawk; nieces Hollye Keck and Alexandra Goodfellow (Jake); and great-niece Laurelynn Keck and great-nephew Grayson Goodfellow. Special friends, Andy & Pennie Savage and Wicomico Yacht Club family. Their friendship, kindness, love and support meant more to Ed than words can express. He also leaves his beloved dogs, Jimmy & Kenny. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Malcolm Rote, and Mother-in-Law, Mary Lee Miller.

Ed’s life was about building things that would last—homes, businesses, friendships, and memories. His greatest legacy, however, will be the love he gave to his family, the helping hand he so readily offered to others, and the countless memories he leaves behind.

A Celebration of Ed’s Life will be held on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Wicomico Yacht Club, the day before what would have been Ed’s 60th birthday.

Family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate Ed, share stories, raise a glass, and remember the wonderful man he was.

Jimmy Buffett attire is requested.

Fair winds and following seas, Ed. You will be missed more than words can say.