Joseph George

Joseph A. George, our adored father and loved papa, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2021.

Joe was born in Utica, NY, November 29, 1930, one of eight children of the late Assad and Barbara (Bulus) George.  He was a lifelong Utica resident. On February 16, 1952, Joe was joined in marriage to Madlyn M. Jacob, a love that lasted over 65 years.  Their love blessed them with seven children, 12 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Joe was a dedicated lifelong produce farmer, working the family business, George Farms.

After his retirement, he was happiest at all the family gatherings watching his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren playing or conversing around the family table. His eyes would light up at all of their accomplishments. He was the greatest dad and Papa.

Joe would greet anyone he met with a, “How you doing partner”, creating a connection to innumerable friends.  He was known for his wit and his optimism.  He often used the quote, “What’s the difference!”.  You could always count on him for a smile. Joe was a lifelong Mets fan, competitive bowler and enjoyed an occasional UC on the front porch.

Joe leaves his seven children, Joseph George Jr, Barbara (Thomas) Bittner, Deborah (Frank) Curriere Sr, James (Barbara) George, Madlyn (Gerard) O’Sullivan, Richard George (Martha Brennan), and Lisa George (Scott Spaziani).  He will be cherished in memory by his loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He leaves a sister Bernadette (Arthur) Steneri; his in-laws, Charlene George, Joan Jacob, Vicki Jacob, Sheila (Richard) Ames and George (Catherine) Jacob; as well as, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He is predeceased by his loving wife, Madlyn; brothers, Anthony and James George; sisters, Ann (Ben) Koury, Shemoney (George) Koury, Mary Ann Brigantino and Sadie (Joe) Acqualino; and in-laws, Richard Jacob, Viola (Bill) Talley and Joseph Jacobs.

The family would like to offer their sincere gratitude to Karen Desimini, the staff at Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital and a heartfelt thank you to the staff at the Siegenthaler Center, for their compassion and acts of kindness during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, please consider sending cases of Utica Club to the Sauquoit Green Farms.

His family honored his life in a private ceremony. Arrangements are with The Matt Funeral Home, Utica.

Final Harvest by Barbara W. Weber

He was bound to the land

from the day of his birth

His roots anchored deep

in the fertile earth

Nurtured, sustained,

by the soil he grew

And his life, like his furrows,

ran straight and true.

In faith, each spring,

he planted the seeds

In hope, to reap his family’s needs

With patience, he waited

for the harvest to come

To gather the fruits

of his labor home.

Ever turning seasons,

the years sped past

Till the final harvest came at last

Then claimed anew

by beloved sod

He was gathered

home to be with God.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph George, please visit our floral store.