James William George, 86, passed away peacefully in Blue Ridge, GA, on Wednesday, February 28, 2024. He was born on October 15, 1937, to Alexander L. and Emily George in Florence, Alabama. Beside his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of over forty years, Roberta; siblings Marion Armstrong and Alex L. George, Jr, of Florence, AL.; and son in law, Tom Dunn.

James is survived by his children Emily Dunn of Blue Ridge, GA; Paul and Karen George of Vincent, AL; and Jonathan and Rosie George of Montreal, Canada. His grandchildren include Alison Dunn of Boston, MA; Sarah (Andy) Dunn-Rhodes of Blue Ridge, GA; Joleen George of Greenville, SC; Judson (Charlotte) George of Deatsville, AL; Katelyn and Emma George of Montreal, Canada. James has one great-grandchild, Winston Rhodes. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Anne Sims and Ann Carol George, and a host of nieces and nephews. James is survived by long time special friend, companion, and travel partner Laura Haight, and loving caregiver and friend Sonya Daves.

James was a proud 1956 graduate of Coffee High School in Florence where he was the drum major for the marching band. He graduated with a degree in Chemical Engineering from Auburn University where he enjoyed his fraternity, Theta Xi. He spent his entire career as an Environmental Engineer at Tennessee Chemical Company. A long-term council member of the Bonnie Higdon Reaves Epworth Campus, he was also a supporter of many arts, historical, and community organizations in this community.

James had a full and wonderful life. He loved raising his family in the Copper Basin area. His membership, close friends, and the sanctuary choir of the First Baptist Church, McCaysville, were a large and enjoyable part of his life for over 60 years. He was an avid supporter and leader of Epworth Boy Scout Troop 32 which gave him the opportunity to relish his passion for the outdoors, camping, and hiking. He enjoyed hiking with the Copper Basin Hiking Club, traveling the United States & Europe, and appreciated the musical concerts of the John C. Campbell Folk School and St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Blue Ridge.

The family held a memorial service for James on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. from the St Luke's Episcopal Church in Blue Ridge with Rev. Victor Morgan and Rev. Harry Gilbert officiating. Music was provided by Rev. Denise Caldwell and David Bryson. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Northeast Boy Scout Council or the FBC McCaysville Choir Fund.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.akinscobb.com

Akins-Cobb Funerals & Cremations of Blue Ridge was in charge of the arrangements.