George M. Whitton

George M. Whitton, 89, passed away on April 29, 2026. Born in Columbus, Georgia, George was preceded in death by his parents John and Ruby Whitton, infant daughter Ashley, and 3 older sisters. He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years Elizabeth Hooks Whitton, daughter Becky Lee Whitton, son George Hooks (Chip) Whitton, wife Meridith, four grandchildren, Tucker, wife Naomi, Carter, Reese and Meg Whitton, brother Robert Whitton, wife Sue, and many nieces and nephews.

George attended Wynnton Elementary School and was a proud alumnus of Columbus High School where he lettered in football, baseball and track. During his Senior year, he was selected to the All-State football team.

In 1955, he received a full football scholarship to the University of Georgia, where he lettered while playing offense, defense, and special teams. He was on the All-Academic SEC team and was the leading kickoff returner his sophomore year. He was a Senior Officer in the ROTC program and a member of SAE fraternity. He graduated in 1959, was a member and active in the Wally’s Boys Association, and until his death remained a loyal supporter of the University of Georgia.

Commissioned into the U.S. Army, he retired as a Lt. Colonel, after serving over 25 years. He was a Green Beret, a Master Parachutist, and he was most proud of being the Commander of a Special Forces Airborne Unit. After active duty in the military, George worked for Investors Diversified Services before entering the banking business. He retired from C&S Bank in Athens, Ga. as Head of the Trust Department.

George enjoyed his retirement as an avid outdoorsman, where he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time at his cabin on Newford Farm. He was a gifted artist, who painted watercolor pictures of wildlife and the outdoors. In addition, he was an excellent tennis player. In 2020, he was inducted into the Chattahoochee Valley Athletic Hall of Fame for his many athletic endeavors. George had many friends from all walks of life. They loved his stories and his analogies, especially his references to football. He will be greatly missed by all.

Funeral services will be held Athens First United Methodist Church on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, the Alzheimer’s Association, or to a charity of your choice. Inurnment will be held at Georgia National Cemetery, Canton, Georgia.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.