George Shine Obituary
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October 3, 2025
Happy 60th birthday to my Friend
SgtMaj James Thompson USMC (Retired)
July 28, 2022
I was just thinking if my best friend and brother in Arms , George I can’t even begin to tell you how much I love and miss you ! I think of you everyday ! We shared so much as black men and as true brothers for the love of our Corps. I truly miss you and me writing this me maybe means nothing if you can’t hear the words we use to share . I just miss you bro ! Heart broken for real ! I will never forget your legacy and it will always live with me !
Gregory Thoroman
May 6, 2022
It has been over two years since your passing but unfortunately, I only heard the news yesterday when I ran into an old shipmate. We only shared a brief time together when you were assigned to Naval Aviation Officer Candidate School as a Drill Instructor. You were my Drill Instructor and your leadership and unwavering demand for perfection (perfect practice makes perfect) molded a ragtag group of individuals into a cohesive team that would earn the mark of Honor Class 11-93 before our graduation and commissioning as Naval Officers in the US Navy. You would repeat and have us memorize the phrase "Discipline is the instant willing obedience to orders, respect for authority, self-reliance, and teamwork". It was something I never forgot and I as I was promoted over the years and placed in positions of greater leadership and responsibility I never forgot the basic lessons and the stellar example that you provided to a very young and impressionable Naval Officer. Your example was the mark to measure all others and I could have had no better teacher and mentor at the time. I remember with great reverence our graduation week and the time honored ceremony of passing a silver dollar and receiving our first salute as a commissioned officer from you, the Drill Instructor, the Marine, the man who gave so much of himself to mold and shape the future leaders of our great naval services. We were aware even then of the great weight you carried having well and faithfully served your country and fellow service members. Not all scars can be seen. Rest easy Marine, your legacy lives on in all the warriors you trained and served with. We will continue the watch and carry the torch to protect and defend our nation and its citizens. CAPT G. S. Thoroman, U.S Navy
ME
January 16, 2022
It's been two years and not a day goes by without a thought of you. SORELY MISSED
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Eddie Conger
February 23, 2020
I only learned of the death of SgtMaj Shine today. To the family and close friends, you are being lifted up by prayers of many. May God grant you a peace that passes all understanding and may SgtMaj Shine Rest In Peace in the shade on the other side of the river. Until we meet again in Heaven, Semper Fi Marine. Eddie Conger, L/3/7 Desert Storm USMC
John Foldberg
February 23, 2020
SgtMaj Shine, we served together in I Co. 3/7. He was an outstanding Marine, Plat Sgt who cared for his men deeply. When I think of SSgt Shine I remember a positive, can-do person, someone who made things better and brightened/improved difficult times and situations. We lost a good man.
Semper fi,
John Foldberg
LtCol USMC (Ret)
VICTOR MARROQUIN
February 19, 2020
Sergeant Major, wow what can't I say. First and foremost prayers for your family. Thank you for everything, and I thank your family for the time they allowed us to have your leadership.
1stBn Delta PISC, Iraq 2007.
Never forgotten. Never.
Semper Fidelis.
SgtMaj Jimmy Cummings
February 11, 2020
SgtMaj Shine, truly one of the finest! The Heavens have another great Marine to guard the streets. Semper Fidelis SgtMaj Jimmy D Cummings USMC (ret)
F. Michael Cline SgtMajor (Ret)
January 30, 2020
SgtMajor Shine was that one Professional person that no matter who you were he would exemplify dignity and respect towards you!!!! My Brothers lost is hard a one for me. I may not know all the right words to say but know they are out of love for one another and this great Man of God & Character!!!! Moreover, I put faith in God that we all can be Restored!!!! To his family may you know that Gods Grace & Mercy shall forever reign amongst his soul!!!! Who encourages the encourager? Family know we will remember him and love him as God loves us!!!! God has this Warrior Man of God of his Kingdom in his grasp given us comfort he is now at rest!!!! In Jesus Name we pray for comfort and healing of the family loss!!!!
Tony Nava Jr.
January 25, 2020
I served with Sgt. Major Shine , in India Co. 3/7. He was our 3rd plt. Platoon Sgt. The strongest , finest , and most dedicated Marine I've ever known. No more pain Brother , rest now Marine. Semper Fi !
Karen L. Gorham-Gibbs
January 24, 2020
When I think about George all I can do is smile because he had one of those smiles that lit up the room. George and I attended high school together. Although it has been a very long time since I've seen him, I still remember him like if it were yesterday. My deepest sympathy to the family.
Marilyn Morris
January 24, 2020
Tiffany know that I am thinking about you and your family in this time of need. My heart and prayers goes out to you. With deepest sadness Marilyn and family
Hermon Blackmon Jr
January 24, 2020
I had the honor and pleasure of serving with SgtMaj Shine with 3/7 in 29 Palms. He was a professional Marine with a ready smile. To Hear of his passing is difficult. R.I.P. my brother and fellow warrior and take your place at the Pearly Gates.
William Seeger
January 24, 2020
I was totally devastated to hear the news about George. I am also a Marine Veteran but from VietNam era. I met George at Bodytalk Gym a few years ago and we quickly bonded into a friendship. I had great respect for Sgt Major Shine and he was a true inspiration for me during my cancer diagnosis, surgery and treatment. I am still having trouble processing everything but George My Brother in arms you will be missed and always in my thoughts and prayers.
Adrain L. King
January 23, 2020
I was blessed to have had served with SgtMaj. Shine along with David Volk, David Rudolpho, Jim Western, James "Chip" Johnson Jr. and many others in 3/7. His mentorship, leadership and compassion have made me into the man I am today. He was more than a Marine, he was a brother, a father and a leader to me. He taught me how to be a man and a Marine. Words cannot express who we truly lost this year. Whenever somebody ask Chip and I about the Marine Corps, it always starts and ends with SgtMaj. (SSgt.) Shine. Additionally, he taught us life lessons and no matter what happens, right is right and wrong is wrong no matter who you are. Without him, I would not have had the successful career that I did while I served. SgtMaj., you will be missed, may God keep you and your family in prayer. Semper Fi....Never Forgotten! A.L. King, 1stSgt., USMC (Ret.)
Bryan Rhude
January 23, 2020
Great Marine but even better man. You have touched so many lives and made a difference to all. Semper Fidelis. You will be missed.
Edgardo Guzman
January 23, 2020
I served with SgtMaj Shine from 2007-2010 and even though we were both SgtMaj's, he always took the time to ask you how you were doing and to make sure you knew he had your back. I remember making the hardest call during my career which was to let SgtMaj Shine know that I was going to retire. He tried everything to convince me otherwise and he made it clear that he believed in me and knew I had more to contribute to the Corps. Right before my retirement ceremony I remember telling him and my fellow SgtsMaj that SgtMaj Shine would be the next SgtMaj of the Marine Corps. He was that good!!!! His attitude was infectious and you did not mind catching it. He made you believe in something bigger than yourself and that you were crucial to the success of your unit and the Corps. Thanks for all you contributions during your time in the Corps. Your memory, leadership, and legacy lives on in every Marine you served with and impacted. Rest in peace my brother and until we see each other again at the Pearly Gates. Semper Fi
Edgardo M. Guzman
SgtMaj USMC (Ret)
Katrina Southerland
January 22, 2020
I have no words, this really cuts to my core. You will forever have a place in my heart. R.I.P
Henry Conner
January 22, 2020
We served together on the 22MEU. He was a great leader, mentor, and friend. Rest easy. Always. Semper Fi.
Dominick Griffin
January 22, 2020
Devil Dog.. you will be missed... I know you are standing Tall and Sharp at those Pearly Gates!!!! Semper Fi!!!!
David Rudolpho
January 22, 2020
SMGT.shine was one of greatest Marines I served with in 29 palms from 1989 to 1992 he always asked nothing but the best from his plt.3 blt 7th Marines.He treated everyone would respect and never backed down from a fight always had that smile on his face that would let you know all will be well and a fellow Marine that will never forgotten.All my prayers to his family and fellow brothers of Marines. Semper Fi my brother.
Mark McRae
January 22, 2020
Sgt Shine and I served together as Drill Instructors in 3rd BN, PISC. Great Mentor to a New Hat. Semper Fi Brother!
James Adams
January 22, 2020
SgtMaj,
It is with a heavy heart that I bid you fairwell.
I hope and pray for Strength and support for your family and friends.
Your Military family will never forget the positive energy you emitted. The "Shine" is real!
I'm thankful for the leadership, mentoring and guidance you provided.
Rest in Peace
Semper Fi
JT Adams, SgtMaj Ret.
Jim HEGARTY
January 22, 2020
We served together many years ago and SgtMaj Shine was one of those people you meet in life that you never forget. I knew then that God made Sgt Shine and broke the mold. I made sure my future wife met him one day just so she knew who all my stories were about. He had a smile that made everyone around him smile. I sometimes wondered how far he went and to see a SgtMaj Star is no surprise. Over time we crossed some of the same fields but never had the pleasure of seeing him again - but my Shine stories continued. Prayers to his family - RIP Brother. Heavens guards are squared away today. Semper Fi
Katheryn Brennan MSgt USMCRret
January 22, 2020
I served with SgtMaj George Shine while he was at I&I duty at North Charleston , he was a wonderful leader of Marines, a great mentor & loved serving in the community. He helped with our local Young Marines youth program, always took time to assist with Toys for Tots here in the local community while he was stationed here. When we would go on a run downtown or in the north area, we would always hear someone calling out his name to say hello, he was so well known here. He always tempered discipline with mercy and was a Godly man. He taught me to be a better leader and Marine. The world is definitely a sadder place for his loss. Semper Fi, fair winds and following seas
Sidney Thomas
January 22, 2020
To the family, May God bless and comfort you and your family during this difficult period; please accept my sincere condolences.
My brother, Praise be to God! George I celebrate you as your journey here has been completed. I have been blessed by the Lord in the crossing of our lives. Our years in 2/2 with them Libra Boyswere the best in my career. It was He that kept us safe and it was He that called us to the ministry as co-laborers in Christ. As particular people, with a particular leadership style, I know it was Him guiding your path all the way to glory. So glad that the final judgment is not mans. I look forward to seeing you again across that water where mansions are prepared for us and view the shining glory shore My heaven, my home forever more.
God bless you my brother and rest in His peace. Semper Fi SgtMaj!
Respectfully,
Sidney Thomas
SgtMaj USMC RET
Heath Thomas
January 22, 2020
Sergeant Major Shine...I met you on the grinder in Pensacola and you helped to mold my entire Navy career. RIP Marine...until we meet again at the Pearly Gates. Semper Fidelis, Heath Thomas, Commander, USN Ret.
Larry Risvold
January 22, 2020
I had the pleasure of serving with Sergeant Major George L. Shine when he was a newly selected First Sergeant assigned to my Battalion when I was the Sergeant Major of 2/8 Americas Battalion. He was one of the Best Marines I ever had the privilege to serve with, a truly Professional Marine, Wonderful Family Man and a Man of God. He touched many throughout his travels and will be truly missed. Larry B. Risvold, Sergeant Major USMC Ret.
Troy Nell
January 22, 2020
For the love of Pete. Poogan s porch to the likes of the swamp Marine. You and Rodney left a year before Wesley Smith and I embarked down that path. Semper fi Dawg and well get to see again. Troy Nell
Lashawn Brown
January 22, 2020
I remember you back in the day hanging on Duncan Street not saying very much, but always smiling. My condolences to your family. SIP George you were one of the good guys.
Michael Hansen
January 21, 2020
One of the greatest men I've ever had the opportunity to meet in my life. He was my mentor and he made me a Marine. I was in his first platoon as a Drill Instructor on Parris Island... Your memory will live on in every Marine you created, and in all the stories I tell about you until we meet again. Rest easy, Sgt.Maj... Semper Fi... PISC 3Rd Bn. H. Co. Plt. 3070 87'
Mu Beta Phi Military Fraternity, Inc.
January 21, 2020
The Kings of Mu Beta Phi Military Fraternity, Inc. sends our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, comrades and loved ones of Sergeant Major George L. Shine, Rest Easy, SEMPER FI.
Phillip Irizarry
January 21, 2020
I had the honor of serving with then Sgt Shines in Echo Co 2/3. He was loved and admired by all who served with him. May he Rest In Peace.
Joseph Smallwood
January 21, 2020
Rest in Peace Sergeant Major! Great mentor, great Marine, great man! Reflecting on his words of encouragement while a 1stSgt. Always willing to mentor. Prayers for the family .
Shine family the Smallwood family sends our deepest condolences and prayers.
Gregory Messier
January 21, 2020
Fair winds and following seas Devil Dog...Till Valhalla...we have the watch...rest easy Marine!!!
Thomas Ballentine
January 21, 2020
Rest in peace and God Bless you brother. You are missed already and will never be forgotten. Semper Fidelis.
Robert Andrade
January 21, 2020
You will be missed. India 3/7 Shield/Storm. Semper Fi. Andrade, 0331 wpns plt.
Jim Ulwelling
January 21, 2020
Shine was a great leader, a great man and a picture perfect marine. 3/7 marines send their condolences to his family and friends... Semper Fi Marine you will be missed
Jack Shanks
January 21, 2020
Rest in peace, SgtMaj
Randy Krank
January 21, 2020
Shine Family,
I had the pleasure and HONOR to serve with your lossed love one in Pensacola
Florida. He was the epitmy of Semper Fidelas. No without a doubt he has impacted thousands and will be missed by thousands.
Glad I had the chance to serve with him for a moment in time.
Fair Seas and Following Winds in your
next Duty Assignment.
Thanks for Your Service to this Nation.
Timothy King
January 21, 2020
SgtMaj Shine. Wow!!! I cant express all the feelings I have for SgtMaj Shine. I met him on deployment in Iraq (2007) and the rest is history. He was a true leader of leaders. He roamed around talking to all the young Marines and Sailors all the time. He didnt request all the fan-fare...just time with the young Marines and Sailors and he was good to go. He taught me a lot about being a SgtMaj. Lost a True Warrior and Friend...RIH...
Semper Fi!
SgtMaj T. King
USMC - Retired
Jim Western
January 21, 2020
SgtMaj, you were a young SSgt, When I was a young Lt. Your humor and enthusiasm made some very hard days easier to bear. Semper Fi Marine, I am greatful to have known you.
Rodney Richardson
January 21, 2020
I remember how we talked about going into the Marines together. I left in June and you left in July. I remember how we jogged around Colonial Lake and Hampton Park preparing ourselves for becoming Marines. I watched you through the years and how you exploded up the ranks and how I was so proud to say that you was my friend. Brother , Im going to miss that. Well run again some day George. SEMPER FIDELIS!! We are and forever will be friends and MARINES....
Lou DiLossi
January 21, 2020
George it was a pleasure serving with you at Roosevelt Roads Puerto Rico. Rest In Peace hard charger. My deepest condolences for your family.
Leon Thornton
January 21, 2020
G,
This is by far the most difficult thing I have ever had to do. You are my brother! DI school was hard but we made it, especially me elbowing you to stay awake. Memories of you are forever emblazoned on my heart. Super Friend, Super Marine, Super HERO! Semper Fidelis!
David Volk
January 21, 2020
George, you came to 3rd Battalion 7th Marines, India Co. 3rd Platoon back in 1989. You were a Drill Instructor straight from the drill field. You served on barracks duty, you were an 0311 infantryman. To give you respect, was something 3rd could not ignore. True to God, Country, the Corps and Family. Many deployments, hostile environments, combat. You impacted the lives of many young Marines. You lead the way. My sympathy and condolences go out to all of the family and friends, everyone who knew and loved George. Rest my brother.
~ Semper Fidelis
Nick Holman
January 21, 2020
RIP SgtMaj, I'll never forget the leadership you brought to our unit and SgtMaj's questions of the day. Semper Fidelis
Robert Smith
January 21, 2020
SgtMaj. George Shine you will be truly missed. My condolences goes out to the shine family. I met George while we served as Drill Instructors at P I. Immediately we form a bond that was unbreakable. I will always remember you and may God keep you close. Until we see each other again my friend, peace be with you.
Anthone Wright
January 21, 2020
SgtMaj, what a shock that you're no longer with us on this earth, but I know that you are in God's unchanging hands. I will always remember you to be one of the most disciplined, firm, yet fair and demanding SgtMaj I've had to pleasure of working with over the past 30 Marine Corps years. May your soul rest in peace. I will be praying for your family during this time of bereavement. S/F, Col Anthone R. Wright, USMC (ret)
Michael Bernstein
January 20, 2020
Rest easy, SgtMaj. Semper Fidelis.
George Espinosa
January 20, 2020
Words cannot bring enough comfort on hearing of this most dreadful news. George, you will forever be in our hearts and minds. I will sorely miss you miss my friend, my brother. Thank you for all the memories. We shared my adventurous times in the service. God Bless you and God Bless your family. May you Rest In Peace my brother, till we meet again. Semper Fidelis. Much condolences to the family.
Juann Edmondson
January 19, 2020
Rootie, you will be greatly missed. May God grant peace that surpasses all understanding to your family.
Love,
Juann
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4700 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405
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