Jon George

Obituary

Jon Michael George

June 23, 1947 – October 15, 2025

Jon Michael George, 78, of The Villages, FL, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, at the Cornerstone Hospice, after a lengthy illness. He was surrounded by his loving family. Jon was born and raised in Middletown NY, until moving to The Villages, FL in 2003.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorotha and Louis George; his sister and brother-in-law, Donna and David Bechtle; his niece, Heidi Villegas; and his great-niece, Sierra Villegas.

Jon’s memory will be cherished by his loving wife of 56 years, Merilee MacKinnon George, his daughter, Jodi George, and his beloved dog, Lolabear. He is also survived by his nephew, Paul Bechtle (Clarice); nieces Stefanie Bramer (Mike), and Kimberly Bechtle; as well as many other cherished nieces and nephews, and in-laws.

Jon attended Middletown High School, where he was a proud “Middie” his entire life. He was captain of the football team and still holds the record for most touchdowns in the DUSO League. Jon and Merilee, being high school sweethearts, were crowned Junior Prom King and Queen—a love story that would last a lifetime. He never missed a high school reunion and always proudly wore his letter sweater, a symbol of his enduring school spirit and fond memories.

After graduating High School (1965) Jon served his country in the U. S. Army during the Vietnam Era. Upon returning home, he began working for GTE, as a Telephone Installer-Repairman, which lasted 34 years. His co-workers applauded his strong work ethic and his willingness to always help them.

Outside of work, he was an active member of the TOW Lions Club, serving as President for 3 consecutive years. where he valued community service and camaraderie. He was an avid bowler – once rolling a 299 game. It wasn’t perfect, but it was good enough for him. However, his true passion was golf, along with all his golf buddies. Jon can also proudly boast of making two hole-in-ones! He was also passionate about his NY Yankees, NY Giants, and Florida State Seminoles.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to remember his warmth, humor, and love for those around him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.