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George William Owings III
George William Owings III
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George's political career spanned five decades. He was appointed by Governor William Donald Schaefer as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates in January 1988. He was re-elected multiple times representing District 29A then District 27B through 2004, serving as House Majority Whip from 1994 to 2004. In March 2004, Governor Robert Ehrlich appointed him as the Secretary of the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs. He served until January 2007 at which time he was made acting secretary by Governor Martin O'Malley until May 2007.
Following a quasi-retirement, because he was never really away from politics, George was appointed by Governor Larry Hogan to once again become the Secretary of the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs in January 2015. He would serve this role during Governor Hogan's two terms. It's been said that George was made for that position and few would argue. The issues he tackled, bills proposed and passed, positions and memberships held and the people he touched and helped are almost countless. No matter his role or position, George was a public servant in the truest sense and was always working for his fellow Marylanders and Veterans.
George was preceded in death by his parents George William, Jr. and Mary Maxwell "Mary Mac" Owings, brother Claude Insley Owings II and ex-wife Louise Carroll Owings. He is survived by his son George William Owings IV, grandsons Jackson William and Emerson Patrick, his life-partner Katherine Marie Boyd, her children Michael (Robin) Holzbeierlein, Angela (Scott) Bakka, Theresa (Joshua) Shafer, and Joseph Chucci, nine grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren, his special cousin Kitty Beck Wilson and "spare son" Brian O'Donnell.
Per his request, services and interment will be private. However, a Celebration of Life is being planned and the stories of his life and political career will be shared. Donations can be made to the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home, American Legion Stallings-Williams Post 206 or a Post of your choosing, and Calvert Hospice or a Hospice of your choosing.
13 Entries
Carolyn Paddy
November 15, 2023
I am so sorry to hear that George has left us. He was a longtime friend of many. When lost my husband, who was a Veteran, he was kind, considerate, and so very helpful. He pointed me in the direction that made things easier for me. He knew everyone, who at least knew someone that he knew. Rest in Peace, George. We have lost a good citizen and friend.
Delegate Caylin Young, Esq.
November 9, 2023
I am truly saddened to hear of the passing of former Delegate George W. Owings III. His dedicated service to the people of Southern Maryland and the state of Maryland as a whole will always be remembered and cherished.
Delegate Owings made significant contributions to his community and our great state during his years in public service. His dedication and commitment to his constituents were evident in his lengthy tenure in the Maryland House of Delegates and his time as Maryland Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
His tireless advocacy for veterans' rights and well-being left an indelible mark on our state. We are grateful for his selfless service, and he will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. May they find solace in the knowledge that George's legacy will live on through the positive impact he had on Maryland and its people. Rest in peace, Delegate Owings.
Dee Orr
November 7, 2023
One of the finest people to ever grace the halls of the Maryland State House.
Rest in peace, George. Many great memories of this man.
al kincaid
November 6, 2023
George Owings, where to start. George was a man that most strive to be like. He was always a helping hand to do what's right. A Marine and Vietnam veteran, a freedom fighter for motor cycle rights and most of all a veteran's best friend. This past year George became a Operation Raise the Roof board member. He always attended the dedication of a free roof for a disabled veteran who needed a new roof. George will be missed by all who knew him. I personally will miss that Owings smile. His smile could light up the darkest of times. RIP Brother veteran and friend.
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Matthew Clark
November 5, 2023
I am not sure I have ever met anyone who loved their work as much as Secretary Owings. In the years I had the gift of working with him, he always shared with enthusiasm the stories of veterans and families he had helped, and many more he had honored. He lived to serve, and there was a deep joy in how he served others, which is why we always have him the last word in Governor Hogans cabinet meetings. We should be so lucky to remember each day that joy that can come from serving. I have tried to think of my work in the same way, but I may never capture the spirit of Secretary Owings. Rest well Secretary. You will be missed and we will now honor your service.
Leslie M Downs
November 5, 2023
I've known George for many many years.... but my fondest memory is how Kind George was to my Father; a WWII Vet; after my Mother passed. Dad was totally lost but George would sit with him and talk about anything that struck Dad's interest. George was an exceptionally kind man. He'll be greatly missed.
Carolyn Roberson
November 4, 2023
I've known since late 1980's; he gave a lecture on agents going into Real Estate & what you should learn. He seemed to always be helpful to all he could. just 4 weeks ago we met in Owings post office & were both picking up the county paper which includes obituaries . We mentioned who was leaving next him or me? just general conversation, but wanting to keep aware of anyone we might know. I was not expecting something this soon. George seem to be a multi talented guy, ready to help everwhere.
John J. Scott, Sr.
November 4, 2023
Since I can remember, probably 65 years, George and I have been friends. Truly one of a kind. I visited George for a long while in the hospital in early September. A doctor came in, but said he would return when his guest (me) left. Without even taking a breath, George told him to stay...that "He's not a guest, he's my brother. Can't tell you how touching. John J. Scott, Sr.
Carolyn Roberson
November 4, 2023
He was the first (instructor) in my first year as a Real Estate agent in Calvert & kept intouch from that time in late 1980's until his passing; just talking with him 4 weeks ago in PO; will surely be missed!
Barbara Kreamer
November 4, 2023
Farewell, Sgt. Owings, Delegate, Mr. Secretary. Thank you for your service.
Jari Villanueva
November 4, 2023
We thank Secretary Owings for his many years of service.to the state of Maryland. Grateful for his support of the Maryland National Guard Honor Guard. Rest easy Marine. We have the watch.
James W J WOOD
November 3, 2023
Because of George I BECAME a US Marine!
Thomas Abner
November 3, 2023
Tommy and Dawn Abner
I will just say we remained extremely close for 73 years and there are way too many memories for me to try to describe them!!! Suffice it to say we had a very interesting life!!!
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8325 Mt. Harmony Lane, Owings, MD 20736
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