George Billingsley Morgan III, 54, of Tampa, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 2nd, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted family man, brilliant life-long learner, and the absolute best hugger you could ever meet. Born in St Petersburg, Florida, George had a 3+ decades long career as a funeral director where he excelled in helping countless families in their time of need. In his constant quest to better himself, he moved on to a career in IT, where he continued to care for people in a new way. George was a beautiful musician- sharing his love for percussion with audiences and students for 40+ years. He generously gave back to his community through various organizations such as Seven Springs Rotary, Knights of Columbus, Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, and St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, among many others. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Karen; two daughters, Elizabeth (Jonah) and Grace, his treasures. He is also survived by his sister, Vanessa (Todd); nieces and nephews, Alexander, Paul (Maya), Colton, Sandra (DJ), Michael, Sophia; and his beloved cousins and aunts. His legacy will live on in their hearts, and the hearts of his extended chosen family. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his honor to
St Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Lifepath Hospice’s Melech Hospice House, or
St Joseph’s Catholic Church Food Pantry in St Petersburg, Florida (https://stjosephstpete.church/support/ , please note “Food Pantry” in the Address 2 line).
Marcia Hart
December 5, 2023, 5:28 pm
My heart goes out to Karen, the children and family. George was always a great man. So sad to hear of his passing so very young!
The Bowers Family
December 5, 2023, 6:14 pm
Our sincerest condolences to Karen, Elizabeth, Grace and family. So blessed to know George and witness his wonderful musical talents! Sending prayers and comfort!
Rick and Colleen Young
December 5, 2023, 9:43 pm
So sorry to hear of George’s passing and wish to express our sympathies and condolences to his family.
Rita Brown
December 6, 2023, 4:17 am
Heaven has gained an angel. A man who lived a Christian life and shared his love of Christ . I was proud to work for ” G-3 ” and have him in my life. George may you rest in peace. He loved his ” Beau” and his girls more than anything else.
Jenna C
December 6, 2023, 1:40 pm
Karen, I am so so sorry to hear about this and I’ve been thinking of you and your family often. I remember George stopping in at work just to drop off a treat for you after a long day and I thought it was the sweetest gesture! You can feel the love you guys have it’s palpable. Condolences to you and your girls.
Jason Levine
December 6, 2023, 3:11 pm
I recently just met George within the last two months. I am Grateful to be able gain some of his insight, during that time. Thoughts go out to everyone who has been Graced with his presense.
Dr. Stephen Scutari
December 6, 2023, 4:50 pm
Dear Karen, Elizabeth and Grace,
I was truly shocked when I learned of George’s passing at such a young age. I am so sorry for your loss. One memory that stands out is when I volunteered to work at an Odyssey of the Mind competition. I remember how animated he was and the hat that he wore. He was a gem!
Steve
Gator Cases
December 6, 2023, 7:36 pm
Dear Karen, Elizabeth and Grace,
George will be remembered by the entire Gator team with great fondness, his time with us has left an indelible mark on our team, and he will be remembered by all. George’s infectious positivity and unwavering dedication to the team were truly unparalleled. His warm smile and can-do attitude were a source of inspiration for us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May you find comfort in knowing how much he was cherished and respected by his colleagues. let us celebrate the incredible person George was and carry forward the lessons he taught us about teamwork, kindness, and a can-do spirit. Farewell, dear George.
Sarah Larsen
December 6, 2023, 8:01 pm
When I think of George, I think of happiness, bow ties, friendship, and positivity. He was a wonderful co-worker and friend and I will cherish the memories I have of him. Sending love to his family and friends.
Michele Hood
December 7, 2023, 3:05 pm
Dear Karen, Elizabeth and Grace, George was one of the nicest people I knew. Though it’s been years since I have seen him, I know how much he cared for others. It was evident from his years spent during his career as a funeral director, a warm smile or a great bear hug when you needed it. He was a bright light in this world. Sending you much love, peace and comfort.
Dan Zampino
December 7, 2023, 3:34 pm
Working with George is an experience I’ll never forget. He would end our morning meetings with a phrase he coined, “GMIAGD,” which meant, “Go Make it a Great Day!” I bet if you asked anyone from Gator, they’d admit to missing those words after he left – a phrase that clearly bolstered camaraderie within our team. George was extremely kind to everyone (myself included) and he will be missed. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Rest easy, George.
Jonathan A. Steiner and Carol A. Steiner
December 7, 2023, 4:04 pm
Our deepest condolences to the Morgan family at this most difficult time.
Jonathan Steiner & Family
IFDF Vendor Member
Kenny Scott
December 7, 2023, 5:21 pm
George was an answered prayer for me and I told him many times. IT was a 2nd career for us both and I was grateful to have someone, “a fellow musician” to learn how to navigate this new challenging career. He had a heart of gold and I will strive to use his encouraging words daily. My heart goes out to his family. They were truly his world.
Laura Starkey
December 7, 2023, 6:37 pm
George, I am so grateful for a friendship that spanned 4 decades. Thank you for being one of my very first cheerleaders for starting Heartwood Preserve. You taught me the very basics of the funeral industry and encouraged my idea until it became a reality. You and Karen raised two amazing women, who both embody the love and intelligence and pure kindness of their beautiful parents. We will all miss your smiles and hugs and happiness. Thank you for sharing your sweet soul with all of us. I am honored that your family chose Heartwood Preserve as your body’s final resting place. I know the rest of you went straight to heaven.
Wanda Detlefsen (Ms.D)
December 7, 2023, 10:32 pm
I knew George as a young man in my British Literature class. George was delightfully funny as well as inquisitive. To his family-If the adult George was as kind and loving as he was as a young man, then you should be comforted by knowing you shared your lives with a remarkable human being.