George B. Dexter

George B. Dexter of New Smyrna Beach, Florida entered the hall of heroes on Sunday, December 14, 2014. Born in Brockton, Massachusetts, and a graduate of Tabor Academy, George was a member of the "Greatest Generation," being raised during the Great Depression and providing distinguished service in the United States Army during World War II. As a member of the 601st Tank Destroyer Battalion with the Army's 1st and 3rd Infantry Divisions, George participated in some of the most famous and ferocious campaigns of the war including North Africa, Sicily, Anzio, Southern France, Germany and Austria. For his service, he was awarded two Presidential Citations, the Purple Heart, Silver Star and the Bronze Star, along with the French Croix De Guerre. After the war, George returned to Massachusetts and operated a number of small businesses before migrating to Florida in the 1950's "because it was warm." He again operated a number of successful enterprises until he found his true business calling in real estate. George eventually moved to New Smyrna Beach where he was an active participant in the local community, as well as veterans' affairs. He served as Chairman of the New Smyrna Beach Board of Realtors Professional Standards Committee, and was provided with a special leadership award in 1980 before being voted Realtor of the Year in 1981. He also served for ten years on the New Smyrna Beach Board of Adjustments, including one year as Chair, and served as Vice Chair of the Planning Board. George was a member of the New Smyrna Yacht Club, where he was Vice Commodore and Acting Commodore, along with being an active participant in the Club's activities for many years. George served as a life member of Port Orange, Florida VFW Post 3282 and a member of American Legion Post 17 in New Smyrna Beach. He participated in numerous veterans' ceremonies, parades and celebrations, often providing inspirational words and support. He was famous for bringing his own World War II jeep to such ceremonies and recently donated the jeep to the Military Museum of South Florida in Coral Gables. George is survived by his wife, Jean Dexter; son, Richard Dexter of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; daughter, Peggy Turner (Bill) of Ormond Beach, Florida; sister, Mitzi Lord of San Clemente, California; two stepchildren; four grandchildren; three step-grand children; and one great grandchild. George was predeceased by his son Philip (Carol). Service will be at Coronado Community United Methodist Church in New Smyrna Beach, Florida at 12:00 noon, Wednesday, December 17, with entombment to include full military honors at Edgewater Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to VITAS Community Connection, c/o VITAS Innovative Hospice Care, 2381 Mason Avenue, Suite 100, Daytona Beach, FL 32117, or to Coronado Community United Methodist Church, 201 S. Peninsula Avenue, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169. Condolences may be sent to www.settlewilderfuneralhome.com.