George James Waymire

George Waymire, 89 of Columbia, MS, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, December 18, 2024. He was born July 5, 1935, in Michigan City, IN to George H. and Alice (Snyder) Waymire. George moved to the deep south at a very young age, grew up humbly along the gulf coast, and graduated at the age of 16 from Pass Christian High School in 1952. He then moved back to Indiana to pursue what would become his lifelong career in the grocery and pizza businesses. After years of learning, working and managing several National Tea grocery stores; George became the proud owner of his own grocery business, The Store, Inc., and with his success as an entrepreneur he opened a small pizza chain, Hunter John’s, on several college campuses in Indiana. His love of water eventually took him back to Mississippi where his soul was. George was easy going with a quick wit. He enjoyed laughing, fishing, watching his Saints on Sunday, trips to Vegas, seafood, listening to Elvis, a good sitcom, puzzle books, and a cold Budweiser on Wednesday afternoons.

He was dearly loved by his family, friends, and neighbors. On May 31, 1957, he married Betty Smith and graciously welcomed and raised her two sons as his own. Betty survives along with son Gary (Jill) Eaton of Columbia, MS, daughters Kimberly Waymire of Chesterton, IN and Stacey (Joel) Goossens of Carmel, IN, and daughter in law, Starlene Eaton of Valparaiso, IN. George has four grandchildren, Casa Waymire, Bryan Eaton, Zak (Tara) Goossens and Madi (Corey) Boston, in addition to four great-grandchildren and two great, great-grandchildren. Kindness was important to George and he treated everyone with respect, generosity and love.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, son, Gene R. Eaton, Jr., grand-daughter, Stephanie Eaton and son-in-law, Donald Sawochka. A private memorial service will take place later. Forever in our hearts dad, Paw Paw, and silly grandpa.

“How lucky are we to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” Winnie the Pooh.