Ernest “Ernie” Francis George of Port St. Lucie, Florida, passed on October 10, 2025 with his beloved wife Susan at his side. Ernie was born in Northampton, Massachusetts in 1945 as the eldest of four siblings, and grew up in Leeds, with grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins nearby.

A quintessential “people person,” Ernie embraced life, loved helping others and adored his family. A keen observer of people, Ernie attracted others wherever he went, putting people at ease with his quiet gentleness.

Considered a “vocational adventurer,” after serving in the U.S. Army, Ernie explored a wide variety of occupations, gaining a treasure trove of experience and skills along the way. Committed to sharing his knowledge and talents, Ernie might be found in the kitchen teaching a grandchild how to make a pie, or on the phone talking a daughter through the steps to fix a leaking toilet. Often the center of attention at family gatherings, Ernie entertained one and all with his “magic” tricks, good humor and funny tales, and was always happy to whip up a delicious meal for friends and family.

Ernie lived in western Massachusetts until 1989, when he and Susan moved to the Eastern Shore of Maryland, which he counted as a highlight in his life. In 2001, to be closer to family, Ernie & Susan moved north to Allentown, Pennsylvania. However, by 2016, they were ready to leave the snow behind and headed south, settling in Spanish Lakes Golf Village in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Ernie loved retirement and getting to do things he really enjoyed, such as traveling to new places, dancing with Susan, fishing, golfing and cheering on his New England Patriots and Red Sox.

Not surprisingly, Ernie generously shared his talents with his new Florida community. He served as president of the Golf Village HOA, participated in the Golf and Bocce Clubs and was active in the Community Patrol. Aside from his friendly manner, he will most likely be remembered for his culinary talents, whether at the HOA’s poolside “Grille” or at other community events.

A devoted husband and father, Ernie leaves his wife, Susan, and beloved children: Christopher George and his wife Lori of Chicopee, Massachusetts; Kimberly George of Greenfield, Massachusetts; Nadine Hamilton and her husband Stephen Rohrbach of Allentown, Pennsylvania; and Richard Hamilton and his wife Nicole den Ouden of Rowe, Massachusetts.

Predeceased by his siblings Richard and Annette, Ernie is also survived by his brother Paul George and his wife Debbie; his sister-in-law Laurie Schutt and her husband Bill; seven precious grandchildren – Bailey, Tiereny and Kyle George, Sofia and Lillie Rohrbach, and Weston and Naomi den Ouden, as well as nieces, nephews and goddaughters whom he dearly loved.

Ernie brought light and laughter to one and all. He will be dearly missed.