George Richard Whitworth

George Richard Whitworth, 88, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 29, 2021 due to COVID - related illness. He was born November 25, 1932 to Robert Leigh and Adeline Haag Whitworth and, except for his service in the United States Navy, was a lifelong resident of Austin, Texas.

George was a 1951 graduate of Austin High School and, after attending two years at University of Texas at Austin, enlisted in the United States Navy. He served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kearsarge (CV-33) where his love for electronics flourished. Following is honorable discharge from the Navy, George continued working in the field of electronics at the Federal Aviation Administration. In all, George served his nation and the federal government for 35 years.

On September 5, 1959, George married Marilyn Nowlin, and together they raised three daughters — Debbie, Jill, and Valerie. They traveled the United States together on family vacations of camping and hiking, and George and Marilyn rarely missed an opportunity to spend time on a beach.

Being a lifelong learner and voracious reader, George taught himself how to build furniture and program computers. Among his family, he was known for his genius intellect, down-to-earth common sense, and his love for a good time.

Nearing the age of 40, George discovered the truths taught by Jesus of Nazareth and made a lifelong commitment to follow Him as his Savior. George and Marilyn were baptized together at Hillcrest Baptist Church in Austin, where they served faithfully for the rest of their active lives. George especially enjoyed serving in the audio/visual booth, leading all of the electronic aspects of the weekly worship services.

George is preceded in death by his parents and his eldest daughter, Debbie Borden. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 61 years, Marilyn; two daughters: Jill Brown and her husband Odell, and Valerie Loughlin and her husband Joe; son-in-law Michael Borden; seven grandchildren: Les Vasterling and his wife Kimberely, Samantha Vasterling, Justin Borden and his wife Eileen, Ashley Foster and her husband Jeff, Bri Loughlin, Worth Loughlin and his wife Whitney, and Glenna Loughlin; and four great-grandchildren: Seth, Brooklyn, Brody, and Felicia.

George’s family wishes to thank all of George’s care givers, especially the staff and nurses at Park Place Nursing Home in Belton, Texas. The family will hold a private graveside service in Austin, Texas. Memorial gifts and contributions may be made to one’s charity of choice.