George Witman Washbourne
May 17, 1932 - December 30, 2008

"My thoughts are with you all-- Grace Ann, Sue Ellen, and Peg. George was such a great teacher and human being. I have fond memories of him at Camp Lighthouse! Joan Senft Hellman"

"It was always a joyous day in our house when the phone rang, and it was George calling! He and Vic were such good buddies. Vic and I are so fortunate to have spent time with George in October, not only at Vic's celebration, but also at their favorite "hang out"--Deisings. George was a true gentlemen, and will be missed by those who knew and loved him. Peggy, Grace, Sue and your families--my heart goes out to you. I pray for comfort in your time of grief."

"Mr. Washbourne was a favorite teacher and, later, a much admired administrator. He was always ready with a laugh and a repectful and supportive demeanor. He graced this world."

"George worked hard to make other people's lives better. Rest in peace George!"

"Mrs. Washbourne and family, I was shocked when I received a phone call telling me of the passing of Coach Washbourne. I visited your home in the fall of 2007 and talked about the fond memories of days at Pine Grove High School. He was truly my role model having him as a teacher for biology and playing football and baseball for three years. He shared many experiences that I have carried through my entire life. May God Bless You and and your family and may his memories bring you peace and comfort. George Brommer "

"Peg and family, I was very sad to hear of Uncle George's passing. He was such a kind and loving person who will be missed very much. I wish you my deepest sympathies. GO ARMY!!!"

"Our thoughts and prayers have been with your family. Love The Pecks (Friends of Sue Rockefeller in Austin, TX)"

"I knew George from his work at Family of Woodstock though I didn't know him well. He was always generous with his time and skills and there are many supervisors still working at Family who learned how to overcome their fear of supervising others from George's training sessions. His respect for professionalism helped us elevate our services. "

"What a great teacher, and coach, we had at Pine Grove. Mr Washbourne is remembered fondly by his many students. Condolences to all of his famly. "

"We were sorry to hear the bad news and herewith want to express our deepest thoughts and sympathy to Peggy and her family. Although it?s been a long time that we have seen George due to the thousands of miles between us, we will keep him in our minds and hearts as we did so far. He was a great neighbor and good friend. "

"If I were to name one person who had a positive influence on my life it would be George Washbourne. George was the one who told me if you want to serve your community the only way to do it was to make people's lives better, to help the people that are less fortunate, and always treat people with the respect that one deserves. Three weeks ago, I saw George for the last time. What I saw was a man who was happy and above all else was so proud of his family he was so excited that they would all be together for Christmas. My best memory of George is when I was on the ballot 2 years ago for public office, I did not make it, but, George called the next night and he said to me 'You ran a hard race, a honest race and I know you will do it again.... When someone like George Washbourne is your mentor and friend, how can you not look at the future and feel good? "

"George you are my friend and you always will be. You and Peg and your family are the best of what our church and this nation are all about. I know you are in heaven, no pain, no problems with your back, but we miss you, I miss you. God bless you and your whole family George and I know God has."

"Peg, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. George left a wonderful legacy. He was such a kind, caring human being...always putting his students and staff in the forefront. He was so proud of his family, and he was so kind to mine...Ron, Lyn, and me. God bless all of you, and may you rest in peace, George."

"My thoughts and prayers are with the Washbourne family. He will always be one of the most special people I have ever known. George hired me to teach in Kingston in January 1969. He took me in his Volkswagen Beetle to see the Miller School and offered me a job teaching science. I loved teaching and stayed at Miller for 38 years, learning a great deal about teaching from Mr. Washbourne. He allowed me the space to learn from my mistakes while encouraging and recognizing the things I did right. When George observed a class and gave me a good evaluation I was on cloud nine. He is the person who encouraged me to start a chapter of the National Junior Honor Society at Miller. Kids came first and George will live forever in the students and teachers who looked up to him as a model and mentor. Rest in peace. "

"I am very sorry about George's passing. It has always been my pleasure to have known him and to have enjoy his company. To his family and many friends please accept my sincerest and deepest sympathy. "

"It is with great sadness in my heart that I send my condolence to Mrs. Washbourne, Grace, and Sue. As I remember Mr. Washbourne from years ago through the eyes of a little girl, I will never forget his big smile full of warmth and gentleness. I knew even then that he was someone I would always look up to and admire. As I read through Mr. Washbourne?s life accomplishments, it was no surprise to see what a rich, full life he lived and the giving he offered to our community. To know him, you would expect no less. Mr. Washbourne was a great man who was blessed by God, as was everyone whose life he touched. He will be missed more than he may have ever expected. The Washbourne family is in my thoughts and prayers."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Peg and all family members as you mourn George's passing. He lead by example and was a pillar of not only the church, but the community as well. George will be missed by all, but we're each fortunate to hold close our own special moments shared with him. It is these memories that will help us through the tough days ahead. Love, Tara and Steve "

"I remember George as an energetic teacher who was able to make learning fun. He carried that ability over to his coaching and got the best out of the teams he coached. He was a good man, fun to be around, and a good friend as well. My most sincere sympathy to Peg and family."

"To Peg, Grace and Sue, Our Love, Prayers, and sincere condolences. We will always remember him as a dear and faithful friend and especially his loving wit and humor. May God Bless you all and keep you in His constant and Loving Care. Elsie & Jim"

"Sue, Our hearts go out to you and your family. We know how much you loved your father and we will be praying for you. Love John and Michelle."

" George was one of a kind and will long be remembered from his days as "knuckleball Washbourne" for his fabulous baseball pitching prowess at Susquehanna University and his humility, kindness and consideration for others less fortunate. A West Point "Army" football fan and an avid golfer who would get just as frustrated on the golf course as the rest of us. We are saddened by our loss but find solace in knowing that God has a new golfing partner. "

"Dear Sue, Bill & Jacob, I know how VERY special George was to you and the beautiful love you all shared. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Please know that I am here for you. With love from, Micki"

"My deepest sympathy to you Peg, and your girls and families. I just know that George is up there getting things in order and giving directions to all. It was such a pleasure to have know this dear man. He will be surely missed but will remain in the hearts of all for ever. Bless him and may he rest in peace knowing what a wonderful life he had lead. We all loved him and you too. And you know what, he finished all the things he was suppose to do. Martha "

"George was a great man! We will miss him! Rest in peace! "

"Sue, Jake and Family, There are no words that can heal this pain but support from those that love you can help you through these days. Love Mark Grace Rachel and Jesse"

"George and I were colleagues first, then he was my boss, but always, we were friends. I admired and respected him. His passing leaves me with a heavy heart and swirling memories. I am so glad now that he and Peg were at my 90th Birthday. His gift to me was his presence and his note saying I was his best buddy. Thank God for such a friendship for more than 40 years. "

"My heartfelt sympathies to the Washbourne family. I loved your dad's ever present smile! Sue god bless. My prayers and thoughts are with you. I miss you. Love, Dede"

"My thoughts and prayers are with George's family. I enjoyed our conversation at the YMCA, especially about our mutual concerns about the Army football team. "

"George hired me for my very first teaching position. I knew him when I was in high school and very involved in school board politics and he was always open,supportive, and loved the fact that high school "kids" were so involved in the community. I will always remember his laughter, positive attitude and support. I wish I could be there for his service, but I now live in Maryland and teach music....which is the career "Mr. Washbourne" helped to launch. May God be with you during this time. Your husband and father will never be far away......and will continue to look over you. "

"Dear Peg, We all loved and admired George so much. He always made us smile, think, and appreciate his wit, hard work, intelligence and thoughtfulness. We will think of him every time the Giants win another game! He was truly a man of God. Love, Lin, Nick, Nicole, and Michelle "

"Peggy we were shocked and saddened to hear of George's passing. He was much to young to go. God must have had a special assignment for him. Peg you George and the girls were great friends and I will never forget the bowling, card games and weekend get togethers we had. I'm sure that George's many friends will miss him just as I do, knowing he was there was somehow important to me. We love you Peggy and are sorry for your loss. Betty and Don Smith "

"Dear Peggy, we were shocked, when we got the terrible message, George has passed away. Our words cannot express, what we feel and how we would like to support you. He was a wonderful neighbour of course our best friend for 30 years. We remember the great time we had together and we will not forget the meaningful talks with him. We lost a wonderful friend. We will always remember him in our prayers. We never will forget him. He gave us so much! You are in our thoughts in those sad days. Our sorrows and deep sympathy are with you and the families of Grace and Sue. We wish we could hold you in our arms. "

"Ann and I are very sorry to hear of George's passing and our prayers are with Sue and her family. While we only got a chance to see George once or twice a year, I always looked forward to the weekly packages from him during college football season. George was a true gentleman and a great role model for us all. I know that, whenever I watch Army football in the years to come, I will think of George. We will miss him. Love, Mike and Ann Scully"

"Our deepest sympathy and condolesences to the family of Geoprge Washourne, a true educator, professional, and a genuine friend. George never forgot to stop into the teachers' room to see all of his friends, check on their families and sit and chat. We will never forget the time that a staff member was going to be excessed due to decreased enrollment. George contacted other districts in the area to find a position for her. He valued her as a teacher and person, and, if Kingston couldn't have her, he made sure another district was lucky enough to get her. He was always a class act who cared more about the education of the students than the politics of the district. God bless you George."

"Peg and Family, We are so sorry to hear of George's passing. We have so many fond memories of George and West Point. He always had a smile and a little jab for me, but was so kind to Molly and Elizabeth. He will always be in that seat just behind me in Section U 11 and I'm sure I'll be able to hear his comments. He was a wonderful guy who mixed his great laugh with thoughtful insight. We will miss him dearly at West Point but we feel blessed for the time we shared. Rick, Nancy, Molly and Elizabeth Salzmann "

"A tribute to a man of personal conviction and service to others. His ideals live on his beautiful daughter, Grace."

"Dearest Sue and Rocky, I can only say how sorry I am that you are facing such a sad day tomorrow. You , Rocky, Jacob, and your Mom are in our thoughts and prayers as you walk this out. Your Dad was a wonderful man and I feel certain he is with Jesus and can't wait to see you all again someday in heaven. What a wonderful write up this was for a man who really made a diffenece in many lives. Blessings and love, Leslie Beal"

"GEORGE WAS ONE OF THE KINDNESS MEN I HAVE EVER KNOWN. HE WAS MY MENTOR. I STARTED TEACHING AT THE AGE OF 37.I WAS FROM KINGSTON AND WAS ABLE TO STUDENT TEACH HEALTH IN 1969 AT THE HIGH SCHOOL. HE CALLED ME INTO HIS OFFICE AS HE WAS DEPARTMENT HEAD OF HEALTH BESIDES SCIENCE. OFFER ME A JOB SAYING I HAD A LOT TO LERN BUT HE SEEN HOW THE KIDS CLUNG TO ME. HE TOOK ME UNDER HIS WING AND WATCHED OUT FOR ME FOR IN ALL MY YEARS OF TEACHING. I GUESS I WAS A MAVERICK AND HE WAS ALWAYS THERE FOR ME. LAST TIME I SAW HIM WAS ABOUT 1990 EARLY IN THE MORNING WALKING DOWN MAIN STREET WITH A BOX OF DONUTS WITH A BIG SMILE ON HIS FACE I AM LIVING IN HOT SRINGS ARKANSAS AND AM SORRY I CANNOT ATTEND HIS SERVICES. BUT I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HIM IN MY HEART. HE IS ONE OF THE REASONS WHY I MADE IT IN TEACHING. MAY HE REST IN PEACE.HE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY"

"I HAVE KNOWN GEORGE A LONG TIME HE WAS A GREAT GUY HE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY PEOPLE I WILL MISS HIM TELLING ME TO SIGN THE GUEST BOOK AT CHURCH THANKS GEORGE FOR BEING A GREAT FRIEND LEROY "

"Sue,Grace and Peg-We can't tell you how sorry we all are! While reading George's obituary I thought that you must be very proud of him! We school folks tend to be kind-hearted people and George certainly had a very big heart. One that he will be fondly remebered for!It was obvious that George had touched many people's lives in a very positive way!! We know you will miss him very much. Hang in there and please let us know if we can do anything! Our love to Bill and Jake also. Our thoughts and prayers are with you! Much love, Jane,Joe,Ben, Kate and Derek"

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Peg and her family. George was always a gentleman and pleasure to talk to. We had many fond discussions about Susquehanna University where our son, David, graduated and we appreciate all his many wonderful civic duties and getting our office involved with adopting a family at XMas. God Bless George"

"Dear Sue and family, Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. Your father's love for his family and generosity to others will make the days ahead easier to bear. "

"To the entire family, in briefly meeting Mr. Washbourne and knowing Sue now for several years I know how big their hearts are. He has left a beautiful legacy in his family that will grow and grow and touch many more people through his spirit and all the wonderful works he did in his community and in his church. He will always live in those he touched. With our sincerest love, Gen and the boys in Austin. "

"I remember most about George is his distintive voice. He raised it often for good causes and could always be counted on to collect money for various organizations like the domestic violence shelter. He is missed already."

"To my dearest friend Sue Ellen and her family, My sympathies are with you and your family during this difficult time. Your dad was great. Always happy to see you and wondering how you were doing. Treasure the great times with him and those wonderful memories will help you through this difficult time. He was very fortunate to have a wonderful daughter like you. Love, Rhonda, AJ, Arthur and Ashley "

"Bill and Jake- We have thought about you guys alot! We feel so bad Jake because we know what a good pal your grandfather was to you. Remember all the good times and think of him when you watch football! He would want you too!! Hang in there and please let us know if we can do anything!! Much love Aunt Jane and Uncle Joe"

"My thoughts and deepest sympathy go with the family of George who have lost a wonderful person. I never stopped talking about him to my kids, even after 20 years of not having seen him anymore. His way of sharing his positve way of living with other persons, even if they are over 30 years younger, will stay alive even far away in Germany. I wish the world could have had the chance to have met him. They would surely change their mind towards the USA. "

"Peg & family, My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. He was a wonderful man and I know how much you will miss him. Carole (Dr Klein's office)"

"Dear Mrs. Wasbourne and family, I was deeply saddened when I heard of George?s passing. He along with Vince Cioni and Vic Mahoney were responsible for bringing me to Kingston. Seeing you both at Vic?s birthday party was real treat. My fondest memories of George are from my days as a rookie teacher. George always forgave the naive mistakes of this novice teacher while encouraging and guiding me to become better and better at my craft. Also apparent was his total devotion to the kids of this community. One of my favorite memories as a Kingston teacher was George?s retirement party. I saw first hand a multitude of people who knew and loved and respected him for being, unabashedly, the man that he was. While I am very sad over his passing I feel very privileged to have been blessed by his tutelage. He was truly inspirational. May you find some small comfort knowing that your husband was loved by so many of us. Fondly, Mary DeChristopher "

"I was honored to call George a friend...He was an extraordinary man always thinking of others.... I am the director of a Battered Women's shelter for women and children.George would often come and ring the bell and ask what is it that the mom's and kids need? I remember one time I said we could use umbrella's, the next day George was back at the door with a dozen umbrella's. Every Christmas George would make sure that every family in need that we knew of -in Ulster County had presents under their tree, he would arrive with his helpers with truckloads of presents for these needy families! A few weeks ago George(our angel) arrived with the gifts with his helpers, but this year he brought someone new with him a much younger man whom he introduced as the person who would take his place when he wasn't able to do it anymore. We joked about it and I told George no one could ever take his place! It was almost as he was preparing us. He also handed me an enevelope with money and checks- he said for the children to have a great holiday party or for whatever they needed, I joked with him saying where did he get all this? He told me stood up in church and took up a collection. I told him that people were going to run when they saw him because he was always asking them to help. I will miss George and his visits to the shelter and phone calls, his great big hugs and wonderful hello's. I know I was right when I said there will never be another George Washbourne - A man I was honored to call my friend.."

"The highlight of my week was the big smile, kiss and hug from my "buddy" George every Sunday. He had such a way of making everyone feel so welcome and comfortable! If he knew of a need for our Sunday school, he made sure we got it. Just this year he built racks for the numerous puppets and special bases for our advent wreaths. He will be sorely missed! "