George Leslie Meffert Jr.

1940 - 2014

MEFFERT George Leslie Meffert, Jr., May 22, 1940-October 8, 2014. The family of George Meffert mourns the loss of their beloved patriarch, a man who loved his family and showed them the world. George passed away unexpectedly but peacefully while on a family vacation in England. Born in Ocala, FL, to George, Sr. and Neil (Self) Meffert, George was the oldest of three brothers. He graduated from Ocala High School in 1958. After high school, George attended the University of Florida and became a life-long Gator fan. He enlisted in the Army and served in Germany where, his greatest joy, twin daughters, with Hope (Harden) Meffert were born in 1962. After serving his country, George and his family returned to the U.S., where he attended Florida State University earning his Bachelor's degree in Business. Upon graduating from FSU, George began a very long and successful career with the Union Carbide Corporation in their subsidiary Energizer Battery Company. Rising through the ranks, George earned various executive leadership roles, living in Tokyo, Geneva, New York and ended his 34+ year career as President in St. Louis when he retired in 1998. He returned to Florida where he enjoyed his retirement playing golf, traveling, and experiencing life to the fullest. He was a history buff, studying America's Civil War and World War II. He was also very engaged in today's politics and held many strong opinions. He toured the world many times with his cherished wife of 22 years, Cynthia. He had a love of life, books and sports-especially the Boston Red Sox and the Gators. George was most proud of his four grandsons-all of whom share unique memories of their beloved Poppie. George was introduced to his first great-grandson, Hudson, during a recent family vacation to Colorado and was so excited to be holding little 'Grit', as he called him. George is survived by his loving wife Cynthia, daughters Paige Lewis (Thom) Huntington Beach, CA and Laurie Wilbur (John) Ponte Vedra Beach, grandsons Connor Lewis (Kathleen), and Garrett Lewis, Jack Wilbur and Cole Wilbur, and his great-grandson, Hudson. George's younger brothers Chris Meffert (Joyce) Tampa, FL and Wellington Meffert (Cari) Tallahassee, FL also mourn his premature passing The celebration of his extraordinary life will be held on October 31st at 2:00 pm at Christ Church, 400 San Juan Drive, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. 32082. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Wounded Warriors Project or The Yellow Ribbon Fund. Please visit our online Tribute at www.quinn-shalz.com. Services under the direction and care of Please Sign the Guestbook @ Jacksonville.com