Search by Name

Search by Name

George Brett

1948 - 2015

BORN

1948

DIED

2015

George Brett Obituary

George Howard

Brett II

August 3, 1948 - February 7, 2015

Falls Church, VA

George Howard Brett II of Falls Church, VA died at home with his family around him after a valiant struggle with cancer. He was a resident of Durham for many years. George was an information technology pioneer in North Carolina and internationally; he was also a generous and creative colleague, as attested by the many social media tributes since his death. He was a fiber artist, photographer, sculptor, watercolorist, sailor, teacher, master kitemaker, IT wizard, Mr. FixIt, and confirmed beer snob. George's questing intelligence, creative outlook, and wry humor will be greatly missed but most of all we will miss his enveloping hugs. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Sally; his daughters, Captain (USAF) SarahScott Dietz, M.D. (Michael Dietz, M.D.) and Megan Ragsdale Brett; his sister Karla Wickett (Ken); two grandsons, James and William; four nieces and a nephew. Memorial services and inurnment will be at the Falls Church Episcopal Church in late February. The family requests no flowers but contributions in George's name to Creative Commons or other Open Access organizations.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The News & Observer on Feb. 15, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for George Brett

Not sure what to say?





Elizabeth Branch Howell

September 24, 2023

Dear Surviving family of George Brett, I am a daughter of retired Colonel A. George Branch of Myrtle Beach. While going through my father's papers after his passing last month (Aug 2023), I came across a piece of paper with the names: George Brett, Mrs. Lou Brett, and Karla Wickett and their addresses. I presumed that you all are relatives of Gen. Rock Brett, who was a wonderful friend and fellow pilot of my Dad's. I was mortified to read that George had passed, way too young. We actually have a picture or two, framed, of Gen. Brett with our family pictures. I am so sorry for your loss. If anyone reads this and you are related to Gen. Rock Brett, please reach out to me at [email protected] Thank you. Elizabeth Branch Howell

Peter Makuck

March 3, 2015

We haven't seen each other in years and how I found out about George is complicated, almost unbelievable, a terrible shock. What I want to say is that Phyllis and I will never forget how welcoming and friendly you and George were to us when we were hired at East Carolina University in 1976. More than once you invited us to your home for dinner and drinks. Some very memorable times. Please know, Sally, that you and your family are in our prayers.

Peter and Phyllis Makuck, Pine Knoll Shores, NC

Shawn Miller

February 28, 2015

George was such a kind a caring soul. I always looked forward to our next conversation or opportunity to work together. The only things that rivaled George's creative and often whimsical curiosity were his contagious smile and his great kindness to others. George will be greatly missed. Warmest thoughts and prayers are with George, Sally and family.

Aletha Holmes

February 25, 2015

I am heartbroken to hear of George's passing. He is by far one of the sweetest people I have ever had the pleasure to encounter. George, you will be greatly missed. It was a pleasure knowing you. I pray for strength and comfort for your family and friends. May you rest in peace and paradise.

Dave Sweede

February 24, 2015

George will be greatly missed. I appreciated his candor and thoughtfulness. He was a huge help to me and was willing to take on anything I asked him to. He was always so cheerful and uplifting. I will miss him.

Paula Croisetiere

February 24, 2015

Soft spoken, kind hearted, intelligent, creative and humble - my words for George, but George and Sally come as a set. Sally is here in body and George in spirit. He lives in our hearts. I am sure George is in good hands and will watch over Sally and family, but we must also. She needs our support to move on.

Luis Ramirez

February 24, 2015

It was a pleasure knowing George and working with him. We are all sadden by his passing. We will have Sally and family in our prayers.

February 20, 2015

George was one of the nicest men I have ever had the privilege to call a friend and colleague. He will be sorely missed by all who have cared for and about him these many years. I loved talking with George--he opened vistas and had so many interesting stories to tell. Rest in peace and know you were and are loved by many who will hold their memories you close and dear. My very best wishes to his family and know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Mary McMahon, Library Director, Mary Riley Styles Public Library, Falls Church, VA

Laura Lerdall

February 19, 2015

I will greatly miss my friend, his humor, his wisdom and kindness.

Roxann Chase

February 17, 2015

So briefly did I know him, but a huge impact was what he left on me. I was honored to have known him while I lived in Falls Church.

Edna Greene

February 16, 2015

All so well said. He was a unique human being and will be greatly missed.

Cathlene Dunn

February 16, 2015

So sorry to hear about George. He was an inspiration to all of us who knew him. A very sad day for all of us.
Sending you our condolences and hoping that you will find peace with all the wonderful memories.

I find you never "get over" those who we love and are now on the other side but we do learn to live with it and find strength by remembering their love and reliving the good times!

Thinking of you and the family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Cathie Gant Cady Dunn and family!

Eileen &Dana Speer-OReilly

February 16, 2015

Our thoughts and prayers. Eileen and Dana

February 15, 2015

God Speed, George.

Dwayne Bickham,Sr.

February 15, 2015

In God's care rest in peace

February 14, 2015

Thinking about you all and praying for God's peace for you as your grieve for George and honor his remarkable life. God bless you with strength and wonderful memories. In Christ, Liz Dowling-Sendor

Showing 1 - 16 of 16 results

Make a Donation
in George Brett's name

Memorial Events
for George Brett

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support George's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor George Brett's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more