Richard Lewis George

Richard Lewis George, lovingly known as "Dumpsie" to family and friends, passed away on March 7, 2026, at Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, Florida. He was 92.

Born on April 20, 1933, in Lincoln County, Tennessee, Richard built a life defined by hard work, service, and devotion to family. As a teenager, he worked in his grandfather's sawmill and later earned his GED, laying the foundation for a lifetime of determination and self-made success.

Richard proudly served his country during the Korean War era as a member of the U.S. Army's 508th Airborne Infantry Regiment, part of the 82nd Airborne Division. A First Jump Qualified Paratrooper, he later continued his military service with the 116th Special Forces Alabama National Guard, ultimately achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class.

Following his military service, Richard became a master mechanic and went on to excel as a top traveling salesman for Southern Sales. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Sunbelt Sales, an automotive parts business based in Birmingham, Alabama, where he was a longtime resident before retiring to Lillian, Alabama, a place he fondly called "paradise."

On March 2, 1963, he married the love of his life, Elizabeth Ann Hamilton George. Together they shared 63 years of marriage, building a family rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering support.

Richard was known for his sharp wit, warm sense of humor, and gift for storytelling — traits often referred to by loved ones as "the George genetic wit." He enjoyed golfing and, above all, cherished time spent with his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, deeply loved by all who knew him.

In his later years, Richard gave his life to Jesus, embracing his faith with a full and grateful heart. He never missed an opportunity to share that love, often stopping to speak with anyone willing to listen about what Christ meant to him. He carried his favorite scripture close, wearing it on a bracelet as a daily reminder of his faith: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vaullee and Faymie George; his son, Charles George; and his sisters, Carol Cummings and Nancy Margaret George.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth Ann Hamilton George; his children, Joe George (Marlene), Lewis George, and Timothy George (Melissa); his grandchildren, Robert Austin (Melissa), Lee George, Brandon George, Jessica George, Abby George, Charley Sullens (Ethan), Trenton George, Brady George, Landon George, Danny Hodge (Kim); and 17 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held April 10, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Lillian Methodist Church in Lillian, Alabama. A committal service will follow from 2:30 to 3:00 p.m. at Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, Florida.

Richard's life was one of service, resilience, humor, and love—a legacy that will live on in the many lives he touched.