John Michael Birckhead

John M. Birckhead, 74, a 42-year resident of Owings, MD and previously of Oxon Hill, MD, passed away on May 6, 2026. Born on March 17, 1952, in Bethesda, MD, he was raised by his parents, Robert E. Birckhead and Lynn Dyer Schumm. John graduated from Oxon Hill High School in 1970 before proudly attending the University of Maryland, College Park. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, Recreation & Health in 1974, before obtaining his Master of Arts in Education & Human Development from George Washington University in 1979.

For 33 years, John was an educator. After beginning his career as a physical education teacher, motor development specialist, and guidance counselor, he went on to serve as Vice Principal, and ultimately, Principal at Bowie High School until his retirement in 2007. He deeply cherished the privilege of being the last person to shake a senior's hand before they entered the real world.

John was a gifted athlete in his youth competing in football, wrestling, and baseball, and later shared his love of sports by coaching both football and wrestling. He took joy in woodworking and was especially proud of the home he built for his family with his own hands which was inspired by his love of history and more particularly, the architecture of Colonial Williamsburg, a place that held special meaning for him. Whether building, fixing, or crafting something for those he loved, his work reflected the care and dedication he brought to every part of his life.

Above all else, he was a devoted husband, father, grandpa, and friend whose life was defined by hard work, loyalty, and deep love for his family.

John is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Catherine Birckhead; daughter, Jennifer King, son-in-law Walter King of Huntingtown, MD and grandchildren, Aiden King and Connor King; and sister, Dr. Lynda Birckhead of Williamsburg, VA.

Friends are invited to celebrate John's life with his family from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Monday, May 18, 2026, at First Lutheran Church, 6300 Southern Maryland Blvd., Huntingtown, Maryland 20639. A Service will be offered at 3:00 pm and a Celebration will immediately follow at the Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association, Inc., https://lbda.org/donate or Hospice of the Chesapeake Foundation https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/donate-now/