George Marion Silvey Jr.

George Marion “Babe” Silvey, Jr., was born on September 26, 1929, in Rainbow City, Alabama, to George and Mae Silvey. He graduated from Etowah High School in 1948 and went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Navy Reserve for 14 years before serving in the Army for four years during the Korean War.

A retired electrician by trade, Babe was a longtime member of IBEW Local 136. He was a faithful member of Rainbow Presbyterian Church for more than 50 years, where his steady devotion, humility, and servant’s heart were evident to all who knew him. He also served on the board of Old Harmony Cemetery and was a longtime volunteer with the Way of the Cross ministry.

Babe was known for his quick wit, sneaky smile, and gentle sense of humor that often appeared just when you least expected it. He had a deep love of history and a voracious appetite for learning, spending countless hours reading and studying—especially anything related to history. Thoughtful and curious by nature, he could recall dates, events, and stories with ease and always enjoyed sharing what he had learned.

In his younger years, Babe was an avid fisherman of the Coosa River. The river remained close to his heart throughout his life, and even in his last days, he knew it well. He never forgot his favorite fishing spots, carrying those memories with him as faithfully as he carried his love for home, family, and tradition.

Above all, Babe will be remembered for his unwavering faith in God, his undying love for his family, and his devotion to his country. He also never lost his appreciation for simple pleasures, including his well-known love of Big Jack’s breakfast. He was loved by all who knew him, and his quiet strength, wisdom, and warmth will be deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mae Silvey; his first wife, Florence Morgan Silvey; his brothers, Bill and John Silvey; and his sister, Jo Ann Messer.

He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Jo Silvey; his brother, Cecil (Sandra) Silvey; his children, Jerry Wayne Brown; Jim (Coy) Brown; Eva Silvey Leonard; Shane (Kandis) Brown; and Wade (Misty) Silvey; along with 14 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many friends who lovingly supported the family with many kind deeds, phone calls and support. The family would

also like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Deborah Reiland and Enhabit Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion during his final days.

A funeral service will be held at 12:30 PM on December 23, 2025 at Collier-Butler Funeral Home, with Ray Tucker and Wade Hooper officiating. The family will receive friends from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM prior to the service.

In honor of Babe’s love of flowers as they were one of the many things that brought him joy along with the appreciation for the simple beauty of life the family welcomes floral tributes in his honor. These may be sent to Collier-Butler Funeral Home.