George was born June 30, 1934 in Highland Park, Illinois. The son of Harlan and Ida Jane, George and his wife Regina met at an Off -Broadway theatre in New York City, where they both worked. Married over 61 years, he was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife Regina Betts and his children, Thea (Orin) Griffin, Maia Betts, Christopher (Diane) Betts and Dion Betts; grandchildren, Dillon, Terrin, Joseph, Henry, Sidney, Joshua, Jacob, Daniel, Dora, Sarah, Michael, Rachel, Avery; his sister, Cynthia (Forrest) Johnson, and nieces, nephews, family and many friends.
George received his bachelors and master’s degree from Columbia in NYC. A dedicated social worker and civil rights activist, he was devoted to improving lives of underserved people and a fearless advocate for those suffering injustices.
A member of the NAACP in NYC and Oneonta, George was at the forefront of the deinstitutionalization of individuals with developmental disabilities.
In 1984 George and Regina moved to a Victorian farmhouse in Worcester to pursue his passion for farming, raising sheep, and spending time with family.
George was an active member of Temple Beth El of Oneonta, New York.
Services will be held at Temple Beth El, 83 Chestnut Street Oneonta at 2:00 pm, Thursday, October 4th followed by an interment at Temple Beth El cemetery.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Oneonta chapter of the NAACP.
To send an online condolence please visit www.bookhoutfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are by the Bookhout Funeral Home, Oneonta.
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