George Alvin Pless

George Alvin Pless was born on February 21, 1953, in Boley, Oklahoma, to Lucious and Mary Pless. He was the fourth of six children, joining his siblings Lauralean Marie Eddie Pless, Leroy Pless, Lorenzo Pless, and Lawrence and Leonard Stewart. George was a beloved son, brother, and friend, husband, father, and grandfather and he passed away at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and hard work.

In 1957, at the age of four, George and his family relocated to Wilcox, Arizona, where he attended Wilcox Elementary School. In 1971, he moved to Phoenix, Arizona, to live with his uncle and cousins. There, he enrolled at Agua Fria High School and formed lifelong friendships, including Donald Washington, whose sister Julia Washington would become the love of his life. George and Julia were married in 1972, and their union was one of devotion and joy.

George's career began at Luke Air Force Base, where he worked alongside Julia's father. Lanier Washington, for a time. George worked at General Electric, as well before seeking a new challenge. He transitioned into the construction industry, first working with Fiberboard Construction, and eventually at Quackenbush Construction-a company where he spent the majority of his career before retiring. George was known for his strong work ethic, and his love for working with his hands was matched only by his enjoyment of the outdoors.

George was a man of simple pleasures. He was known for his gentle spirit, which endeared him to many, and his ability to find joy in the small things in life. Whether he was barbecuing with family and friends, playing a competitive game of dominoes, or making homemade beef jerky and smoking meats in his underground pit, George's presence was always one of warmth and laughter. He also loved the outdoors, particularly throwing horseshoes and spending time with his family in nature. His passion for building was evident in everything from creating a playhouse with his daughter Candace, to crafting birdhouses with his grandson Alex.

His love for trains was also a significant part of his life, and he dedicated countless hours to building and maintaining his train set.

Throughout his life, George was devoted to his faith. He was a long-time member of Cornerstone Christian Center, attending the church in the 1990s through 2000s. There, he served in both the men's ministry and the youth group, Royal Rangers, where he became known as the "Candy Man" for his habit of bringing a bag of Jolly Ranchers to keep the children entertained during service. His affection for children and his desire to serve was evident to all who knew him.

George was a proud father of five children: George Anthony, Corey Delmar, Christopher Paul, Candace Jessica, and Tiffanie Mia. Tragically, two of his children preceded him in death, but George's love for his family never wavered. He cherished his grandchildren deeply: Christopher, Alex, Thalia, Nehemiah, Sharma, and Jalayah. He was a doting father and grandfather, always quick to share his time and love with those he cared for most.

He is survived by his wife Julia, his siblings, including his brother Leonard Stewart, and his many nieces, nephews, and extended family who will miss his gentle soul and his joyful spirit.

George Alvin Pless was a man who lived life with purpose and integrity. He will be remembered not just for his hard work, but for his kindness, humility, and devotion to family and faith. His passing leaves a hole in the hearts of those who knew him, but his memory will live on in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and all who were touched by his love and generosity.

He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love and faith will never be forgotten.

A visitation for George will be held Friday, November 8, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Funeraria del Angel Greer-Wilson Chapel, 5921 West Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85033.