Joseph Henry Novotny

Joseph H. Novotny (Joe), age 86, passed away on December 10, 2025. Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Joe lived a life defined by service, family, faith, and community.

Joe is survived by his sister, Mary Ann Messenger; his sons Joseph Raymond Novotny (Lisa), Jeffrey Thomas Novotny, and Matthew Francis Novotny, Sr. (June); his granddaughter/daughter Malarie Patricia Zeeks; granddaughters Felicia Adele Novotny-Davis (Connor), Caroline Alma Donia Lastfogel, and Ashley Marie Novotny (Jacob); grandsons Andrew Joseph Novotny and Matthew Francis Novotny, Jr.; great-granddaughters Juliette Patricia Zeeks and Nora Adele Davis; and great-grandson Luca Joseph Dale Jackson.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph F. Novotny and Marie A. Novotny (née Buckmeier); his wife, Patricia Ann Novotny (née Ward); and his daughters Elizabeth Ann Novotny and Mary-Patricia Lastfogel (Charles).

Joe lived with his parents and grandparents in Federal Hill in his early years and later moved to East Baltimore where he attended St. Bernards Catholic school. It was there that he met the love of his life and future wife of 66 years, Patricia Ann Ward. He graduated from Loyola High School where he was taught by the Jesuits and attributed those teachings to the way he lived his life.

Joe was a Certified Public Accountant whose professional life reflected integrity and dedication to public service. He served as County Auditor of Anne Arundel County, maintained a public accounting practice, was a past president of the Maryland Association of CPAs, and sat on the board of the American Institute of CPAs. Joe also served on several civic boards and volunteered at Hezakiah House in Baltimore, where he helped provide a place of refuge to those in need.

After moving his family to Crofton in July 1966, Joe became deeply involved in the community he came to love. He was one of the initial founders and President of the Crofton Athletic Council, coached and refereed Crofton youth basketball and baseball teams, and was instrumental in the building of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, where he also served as a Lay Corporator and on the Pastoral Council.

Joe enjoyed golf, fishing, and cooking, and was a devoted Baltimore sports fan. He attended the first Baltimore Orioles game in 1954 and remained a lifelong supporter of the Orioles and the Colts, later following the Ravens as well. He also loved minor league baseball, frequently attending Bowie Baysox games, Baltimore Blast soccer matches, and many other local sporting events.

Above all, Joe will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his faith, and his community. His presence, guidance, and generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Services will be held on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m.In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish or the Crofton Christian Caring Council.