Ledo Pizza announced the passing of its former president and co-founder, Thelma W. Beall, who died last week at the age of 101.
Born and raised in Maryland, Beall was instrumental in founding Ledo Pizza in 1955 alongside her husband, Bob Beall when the couple and partner Tommy Marcos opened the original Ledo Restaurant in Adelphi. What began as a single neighborhood restaurant grew into one of Maryland’s most recognizable and beloved food institutions, known for its square pizzas topped with sweet tomato sauce, smoked provolone cheese, and thick-cut pepperoni, often referred to as “Maryland-style pizza.”
In the restaurant’s early years, Beall was a hands-on presence, working as both a server and hostess at the Adelphi location. Her commitment to hospitality and community helped establish the family-focused atmosphere that became a defining trait of the brand. According to Ledo Pizza, her influence continues to be felt through the company’s dedication to service and the values she helped shape from its earliest days.
Since 1955, Beall remained a constant source of support and guidance for the company, offering what Ledo described as “wise counsel” as the brand expanded across Maryland and beyond. In a statement, Ledo Pizza reflected on her legacy, writing, “We will miss you, Grandma.”
