It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Ed McDonough, a long-time member of the Maryland emergency management
community and a dedicated public information officer.
Ed’s contributions to the Department of Emergency Management and the greater Maryland community were significant, and his loss will be felt deeply by all who knew him.
Secretary Russ Strickland, in his message to the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) and State Emergency Management team, expressed the profound loss felt by all:
“I am deeply saddened to inform you that Ed McDonough died overnight. Ed has been a constant presence at the Department and in emergency management both in Maryland and around the country. I also know Ed as an amazing father and member of the greater Baltimore community.”
Many took to social media to share beloved memories of their time with Ed.
Heartbroken to hear of @EdMcDonough1’s passing. He led with excellence as a spokesperson, shaped countless public information officers through his guidance, and brought kindness to every interaction. Maryland’s emergency management community will deeply miss him.#EMGTwitter https://t.co/YzctkVvEAz
— Kevin Kinnally (@KKinnally_MACo) January 12, 2025
So sad waking up to learn that a friend has passed away.
Hundreds of thousands of people are better prepared thanks to the work of @MDMEMA’s @EdMcDonough1. Your legacy will live on my friend. pic.twitter.com/w7C8dJVM4R
— Andrew Doyle (@doyle0213) January 12, 2025
Saddened to hear news this morning of the death of a friend, colleague and @MDMEMA #PIO leader, @EdMcDonough1 – I have known Ed for over 3 decades from when I first started out as @PGFDPIO and we had a great friendship. Ed was part of the legacy of the original Advanced and… pic.twitter.com/gXYRWGFilQ
— Mark Brady (@PIOMarkBrady) January 12, 2025
As the community processes this loss, we encourage everyone to lean on one another and reach out for support when needed. Our thoughts are with Ed’s family, friends, and colleagues as they navigate this difficult time.
