Cameron Eric Dennis

THE OBITUARY

Cameron Eric Dennis, fondly known as "Cameo," was born to the late Quintin Dennis and Irene Dennis on Leap Year Day, February 29, 1964, in Annapolis, Maryland, a rare date befitting a one-of-a-kind soul. He spent his formative years growing up in Shady Side, Severna Park, and Severn, Maryland; where he discovered a lifelong love for the outdoors. He was the kind of kid who rose with the sun, eager to head outside and lose himself in nature’s rhythm; hiking through the woods, exploring creeks, fishing, or simply soaking in the fresh air. He was educated in Anne Arundel County Public Schools and graduated from Southern Senior High School, Class of 1982.

A lifelong heart for service defined much of his early adulthood. He began volunteering with the Odenton Volunteer Fire Company in 1979 and faithfully served for many years. That dedication continued with the Shady Side Volunteer Fire Department, where he remained a trusted and valued member of the community.

Cameron began his working life at Hecht’s department store, serving as a security guard for several years before finding his way to Giant Food in Jessup, Maryland. There, he built more than a decade-long career as a food selector and forklift operator. Never one to shy away from a side hustle, he also drove school buses part-time, transporting students to field trips and athletes to games, always ensuring they arrived safely and on time.

In 2015, Cameron joined Metro, the Washington, D.C. public transportation system, first as a bus driver and later in a role he truly loved: working as a mechanic. It was the perfect fit for his hands-on skills and passion for fixing things. He remained there until an on-the-job accident forced him into early retirement. But true to his nature, Cameron didn’t let that slow him down; he stayed busy helping out at the Franklin United Methodist Church Food Pantry because for him, work was never just a paycheck, it was a way to lend a hand where it was needed.

To those who knew him, Cameron was many things: a devoted son, loyal brother, loving father, cherished Pop-Pop, cousin, nephew, friend, DJ, grill master, mechanic, and so much more. Each title reflected the countless ways he showed up for others, always ready to lend a hand, share a laugh, or simply be present. Whether he was under the hood of a car, behind a turntable spinning the perfect track, manning the grill with unmatched flair, or captivating a room with one of his legendary stories, Cameron had a gift. He made people feel seen, heard, and completely at ease. His presence was magnetic, his humor infectious, and his heart generous beyond measure.

He accepted Christ as his personal Savior at the age of 15 and rededicated his life to the Lord in his later years. His faith, though quiet and steady, remained a constant presence, guiding his actions and shaping his character.

He was preceded in death by his father, Quintin Dennis; aunts, Josephine Mosley, Mary Jane Mosley, Bernice Hayes, and Carolyn Johnson; and uncles, Charles Mosley, Lawrence Mosley, Thomas Dennis, and David Wallace.

He is survived by his daughter, Tiza Trusty; grandchildren, Jakayla Shirley, Jakyle Shirley, and Jazaya Jones; mother, Irene Dennis-Pitts; brothers, Lorenzo Quintin Dennis (LaKaisha) and Antonio Lamar Crowner (Quasette); sisters, Nakia Hayes (Rodney) and Sherell Devon Crowner-Queen; great-aunt, Eliza Dennis (affectionately known as “Aunt Doll Baby”); aunts, Mary Howard and Carolyn Dennis; close cousins, Valerie Marshall (James), H. Glennwood Mosley, Carlita Lewis (Lawrence), Candace L. Young (Dale), Pandora Dennis, and Michael Parrish; and a host of other cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends including his road dogs James Oakley, Alphonzo Watts, and Sidney Scott Jr.

Cameron leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and service; and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.