George Franklin Farris

George F. Farris, age 86, passed away peacefully after a long, full life marked by curiosity, dedication, and a quietly incisive sense of humor. A native of Buffalo, New York, George developed a strong resilience as a lifelong fan of the Buffalo Bills, as well as the Yale Bulldogs of his alma mater.
A distinguished Professor of Management, George devoted his career to teaching, research, and leadership in higher education at MIT, York University, and for 31 years at Rutgers University, which dedicated a Chair in Entrepreneurship in his name. His work took him far beyond the classroom to Brazil, Belgium, China, and other countries, reflecting both his expertise and his openness to the wider world. He was widely respected for his intellect, rigor, and contributions to the study of management and technology. He was proud to see many of his students go on to teach and contribute to the field.
Even in retirement, George remained engaged by volunteering his organizational leadership to a foundation established by his late aunt, where he brought structure, clarity, and purpose. Outside of his professional and volunteer work, George took great pleasure in traveling, exploring how to make the perfect cappuccino, taking long walks, and being with family. He had a great appetite for good food, family favorite desserts, and keeping up with radio technology. Friends and family will remember his dry observations, perfectly timed remarks, and his gift for saying exactly what he meant-with a twinkle of mischief behind his stoic countenance.
George survived major cardiac surgery seven years ago, an event that granted him meaningful additional time with his family. He was married for 51 years to his devoted wife, Agnes, with whom he raised three talented children in Montclair, New Jersey: Andrew, Amanda, and Jamie. He took immense joy in following the antics of his five grandchildren–Mark, Peter, Santiago, Río, and Soleil–and various granddogs.
George faced the challenges of aging with characteristic strength and grace, supported by the constant love of his wife and children. He will be remembered for his thoughtful questions, dry humor, steady presence, and the way his mind remained engaged with the world, even as his body slowed. His legacy lives on in the lives he shaped-as a husband, father, grandfather, teacher, mentor, volunteer, and friend.
All services are private at the request of the family. Cremation was private. Memories and condolences may kindly be shared at shookcedargrove.com.