St. Mary’s County community invited to honor veteran deputy, retired sergeant who died in line of duty

ST. MARY’S COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) — Members of the community are invited to pay their respects this week to one of the longest-serving sworn deputies for the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO), who died while on duty last Tuesday.

Sergeant Mark Porter, 60, died while performing his duties on July 1. He retired as a sergeant in 2022 after more than 34 years of service and, after a brief break, returned to serving as a deputy until his death.

“This is a heartbreaking day for our agency,” said Sheriff Steve Hall, upon announcing Porter’s death. “Deputy Mark Porter was dedicated to others; for him, policing was his life. His legacy is one of quiet strength, faithful service, and unwavering duty. We are devastated by his loss and hold his family, friends, and fellow deputies in our thoughts and prayers.”

The sheriff’s office noted that although Porter’s death appears to be medically related, the circumstances will be reviewed per state protocols, as with all line-of-duty deaths.

To honor Porter and his years of distinguished service, the sheriff’s office invites the community to attend his services and procession.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 8, from 5-8 p.m. at Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, located at 41590 Fenwick St. in Leonardtown. Prayers will be read at 7 p.m.

Porter’s funeral will take place at the same location starting at 10 a.m. on Wednesday. Parking is available at the funeral home and in nearby lots. However, officials said people should arrive early to ensure a spot as a large number of people are expected to attend.

After the funeral, a procession to Charles Memorial Gardens, located at 26325 Point Lookout Road in Leonardtown, will begin at around 11 a.m. Members of the public are encouraged to pay their respects along the procession route, as shown below, by standing on the sidewalks or in other safe areas.

Officials encourage those who attend the graveside service at Charles Memorial Gardens to park at the Shops at Breton Bay shopping center.

As a result of the services, drivers should expect to see increased traffic in the Leonardtown area starting around 9 a.m. Temporary road closures and delays will also occur along the procession route from about 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., according to the sheriff’s office.

“The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as we honor the life and service of Sergeant Mark Porter,” wrote SMCSO, in a post on social media.