Cover photo for John S. Decker's Obituary
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John S. Decker

April 28, 1950 — May 1, 2025

John S. Decker

John S Decker, age 75, passed peacefully in God‘s hands on May 1, 2025.

Born to Mary and John Decker in Scranton, Pennsylvania on April 28, 1950. As a child, John attended holy rosary Catholic school in Scranton PA. He moved with his family to Landover Hills, Maryland in 1963 at 13 years of age.

After graduation, John enlisted in the US Marine Corps and was stationed at Paris Island, North Carolina. After completing his tour of duty, John worked as an ironworker in Prince Georges County.

John had a great passion to become a police officer so he could help people and have an impact on crime. John joined the Prince Georges County Police Department in 1973 where he went on to serve 50 prestigious years on the Department with multiple awards, commendations, medals of honor and rank promotions. He retired as Senior 1st Lieutenant.

Some highlights from his career as a police officer include:

-Joined the police department in 1973, served in the bureau of patrol at district I, II, and VI.

-Supervised the district l, Langley Park Drug Task force. Promoted to Sergeant and then Lieutenant in 1993.

-Served on the Repeat Offenders Unit, Gang Unit, Internal Affairs Division - while there, he initiated and started the department’s drug testing program.

-Was shot and wounded by a suspect during a home invasion.

-Was decorated for assisting and arresting a serial rapist.

In addition to his passion for Police work, John also enjoyed being a family man! On his days off, he would often be seen out in the yard or around the house, making sure everything was in order. He took great pride in his home and his family! He put his family first always and was always the protector and provider for them! He also enjoyed motorcycles, trucks, Gettysburg, working around the house, old tools and history. He was very patriotic and made sure his flag and flagpole were always in good order! 

It is important to note that equal to John’s love for the Department and his Police family was his love for the law-abiding members of the communities he served, especially the elderly. 


He is preceded in death by his brothers, Steven and William Decker.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 25 years, Karen Decker, and his three stepdaughters Kristin Clark, Kelly Clark and Taylor Clark as well as his son Matthew John Decker. He is also survived by his two sisters Kathleen Parker (New Jersey) and Donna Thompson (Bill) (Maryland)



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Past Services

Viewing

Thursday, May 8, 2025

4:00 - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)

Donald V. Borgwardt Funeral Home, P.A.

4400 Powder Mill Rd, Beltsville, MD 20705

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Funeral Service

Friday, May 9, 2025

Starts at 10:00 am (Eastern time)

Donald V. Borgwardt Funeral Home, P.A.

4400 Powder Mill Rd, Beltsville, MD 20705

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Interment

Friday, May 9, 2025

Starts at 12:00 pm (Eastern time)

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