George Allen Meighen

George Allen Meighen, age 94, passed away on August 15, 2024 in Birmingham, Alabama. George dedicated over two decades of his life to the Armed Forces of the United States, serving from 1951 until his retirement in 1972 as a Lieutenant Colonel (LTC). He attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York (1947-1951). One of his proudest achievements was being a US Army Ranger, where, unfortunately he lost his left eye during tactical maneuvers. His sense of humor was demonstrated by a plaque that hung in his home, stating “In the World of the Blind, the One Eyed Man is King”.

Throughout his distinguished military career, he was recognized with numerous awards including the Korean Service Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge and Bronze Star medal, and the Army Commendation with Oak Leaf Cluster among many others.

His personality was marked by his friendliness, wit, honesty and generosity, traits that endeared him to many. Beyond his military and family commitments, he had a profound love of dogs, caring for several over the years, including his beloved Basset Hound, Copper. His patriotism was on display as he drove himself around his community in his flag decorated golf cart, accompanied by Copper. George loved to engage with people and was always keen to hear their stories and learn about their lives. He was also proud to be the inspiration for the annual Pawley’s Island Fourth of July Parade, started by his wife Anne and friends in 1966 while he was in Korea. The parade continues to this day and has grown dramatically over the last 60 years.

George was born in Wilkinsburg, Pa. He was preceded in death by his parents John L. And Bertha E. (Fenske) Meighen, Brother John L. Meighen, Jr. and sister Martha Jamison.

He is survived by his daughter Anne Garrison Meighen and son George Allen Meighen, both of Birmingham and several nieces and nephews in Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Florida.

George was widowed twice; to Barbara Anne Hiott of Columbia, SC for 37 years until her death at 63 in 1992.

He was married Kaye Graham in 1996 until her death in 2003.

In lieu of flowers the family request memorial contributions be made to Great Birmingham Humane Society.

The family will have a committal service Monday, August 26, 2024 at 9:30 am with full military honors at Alabama National Cemetery in George’s honor.

They will receive friends on Monday, August 26, 2024 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Christ Church, 5091 Caldwell Mill Rd. Birmingham, AL 35242. A memorial service will follow at 12:00 pm at the church.