George J Anstead

George J. Anstead, of Okeechobee Florida, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, peacefully departed this life on July 22, 2026, at the age of 87. Born in Alliance, Ohio, on September 27, 1938, George was the cherished son of Johnathan and Wyonna Anstead. He spent his early years in Alliance, where he graduated high school in May 1956, and soon after, he served his country with honor in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958. On November 17, 1956, George married his lifelong partner, Ethyl Marie Guess. Their union, spanning nearly seven decades, was a testament to enduring love and companionship. Together, they built a family that was the center of George's world, raising their son Johnathan and daughters Brenda, Kathy, and Pamela. His legacy lives on through his 11 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride. George was a man of many talents, dedicating 45 years to his career as a professional painter and handyman. His work was not merely a job, but a craft he honed with passion and precision. Known for his keen sense of humor and gift for storytelling, George was always ready with a tale to share, brightening the days of all who knew him. His kindness and generosity knew no bounds; he was a man who would give you everything he owned to ensure you never went without. Upon retirement George decided to spend his later years somewhere fun and sunny, moving to southern Florida in 2002 he continued enjoying his days in the lovely year round warm weather of Lake Okeechobee Florida. A lifetime member of the Baptist church and a dedicated freemason for 48 years, George’s faith and dedication to service left an indelible mark on his community. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly fishing and spending time with his family. His presence was a cornerstone during family gatherings, where his laughter and stories were eagerly anticipated. George is predeceased by his parents, his son George Jr., brothers Adam and Thomas, sister Dorothy, and son-in-law Robert. He is survived by his devoted wife Ethyl, his children and their spouses: Johnathan (Cherie) Anstead, Brenda (Robert) Thompson, Kathy (Andrew) Ruhl, Pamela (Michael) Marchie, and daughter-in-law Penny (George Jr.) Anstead. His memory will also be cherished by his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and countless friends who became family over the years. A private funeral service for George will be held at Trinity Baptist Church in Okeechobee Florida on July 29, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. The family invites all who wish to honor George’s memory to a small remembrance gathering following regular church services at the church on the same day. Additionally, a remembrance get-together will be held at the family home on July 30, 2026, from 9 a.m. until dark. Everyone is welcome to stop by, share a memory, or offer words of comfort and prayer. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in George's memory to the Trinity Baptist Church or a charity of your choice, reflecting George's lifelong commitment to helping others. Though he has left this world, George's spirit lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him. His life was a testament to love, generosity, and unwavering faith, and he will be dearly missed but never forgotten.