George Skarpalezos Sr.

George Skarpalezos Sr. was born June 11, 1943 to John Skarpalezos from Skopelos, Greece and his mother Winnie Turner, from Nichols, Georgia. He was the youngest of 5 children, all raised on Blythe Island (Brunswick, GA).

He had fond memories of attending Arco Elementary School and played football at Glynn Academy.

After graduating Glynn Academy, class of 1961, he went to South Georgia College for 2 years and then transferred and graduated from the University of Georgia, while there he joined ATO Fraternity and had some of the best years of his life.

After graduating college, he joined the U.S. Army and went to basic training at Fort Benning, Georgia and then onto officer training school in Fort Dix, New Jersey. He served as an Infantry Platoon Leader as a First lieutenant, in the 82nd Airborne Division of the United States Army. He was sent to fight in the Vietnam War, where he saw combat in the areas of Cambodia and Laos.

His desire to return back to his roots and start a family of his own, led him back to Brunswick, GA, where he raised three children.

From the very start, he had a drive and determination to be successful. His first job back home would be wholesaling 8 track cassette tapes. His salesmanship led him to begin a career in real estate, where he ultimately opened his own real estate company called Skarpalezos Realty.

During this time, he built an oceanfront condo complex and began buying and selling multiples properties throughout South East Georgia. He developed Ridge Wood, River Ridge and his highest accomplishment was his development of Oak Grove Island Plantation.

He was passionate about real estate, land and making deals. Real estate to him was more than a job, it was a way of life.

Since his early adult years he has loved music, performing at many local establishments here on Saint Simon’s Island. He played in several bands - the Ascots in his late teens, in college with the Gypsys, and as an adult with 'The Fabulous 60 Minute Men'.

He spent many hours on his farm bulldozing and taking care of his beloved horses. He lived life to the fullest and treasured having a good time with friends and family.

He is preceeded in death by his father John Skarpalezos, mother Winnie Skarpalezos, brother Harlan Skarpalezos and sisters, Carrie Bishop & Ellen Pennell.

He is survived by his 3 children: George Skarpalezos, II, Winnie Skarpalezos and Jessica Grace Park, grandson Jayden Robert Park (NC), older sister Sylvia Rowell and Nieces and nephews; Lee Skarpalezos (Cherry), Lori Carden (Tom), Regina Head (Joe), Katrina Anastasia(James), Stacey Zeleznik (David), Ronda Cook (Jeff), Jess Pennell, John Clifford Pennell, Rita Finn.

Special thanks to the staff & family at the Thrive/Vitality of Saint Simons and Georgia Hospice Care, which brought exceptional love and care. Donations can be made to Georgia Hospice Care or the charity of your choice in memory of George Skarpalezos Sr.

Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. www.edomillerandsons.com