George Williamson

George J. Williamson, 93, of New York, NY, a devoted husband, father and true gentleman, passed away peacefully on June 14 with his family by his side. In the days leading up to his passing, he was surrounded by the love of family and friends.

Born in Chatham, NJ, George was the son of Homer Brittain Williamson, Sr. and Elizabeth Henderson Jones, both of whom were from Georgia. He grew up in a close-knit family with his brother, Homer “Britt” Jr., and his sister, Nancy, in a house his father built. It was there that values such as hard work, integrity and humility took shape and stayed with him throughout his life.

George graduated from Chatham High School before attending Colgate University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. At Colgate, he distinguished himself as a student senator; president of his fraternity, Phi Delta Theta; captain of the varsity soccer team and a member of the honors societies, Maroon Key and Konosioni. He was also named to Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities.

Following his graduation in 1955, George entered the United States Navy and attended Naval Officer Candidate School in Newport, RI. He was commissioned and ultimately promoted to Lieutenant, junior grade, serving several years as a Navigator Bombardier. During his service, he was selected for advanced training as part of an elite group focused on aerial warfare and bombardment. His assignments took him across the United States and internationally, including aboard the aircraft carrier USS Shangri-La. His time in the Navy was a defining chapter that shaped his perspective and reinforced the discipline, patience and resilience he carried into his future career and life.

After completing his service, George built a remarkable career in the investment industry spanning more than six decades. He began at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York as a

Research Analyst, later holding roles as a Portfolio Manager and Equity Research Analyst Manager at Chemical Bank and establishing his own investment advisory firm in New York City. He went on to senior positions at Lehman Brothers and Salomon Brothers Asset Management, managing portfolios for high net-worth individuals and institutions. George ultimately joined ClearBridge Investments as a Director and Portfolio Manager on the Custom Solutions team. Known for his insight, sound judgment, calm demeanor and deep understanding of markets and history, he earned the respect of colleagues and clients alike. He remained engaged in his work well into his later years, retiring at age 91. Even then, he continued to read The Wall Street Journal and watch CNBC daily, staying closely connected to the markets until his passing.

At his core, George took genuine pleasure in connecting with others. He carried himself with grace and authenticity, shaped in part by his Southern roots. Though often reserved, he possessed a quiet confidence and an ability to rise to the moment when needed. A natural storyteller with a great sense of humor, he put people at ease and welcomed conversation wherever he went, often parting with his familiar expression, “Have a happy day.”

He moved through life with an easygoing spirit and an appreciation for both adventure and simplicity. In later years, he could often be found sitting along Fifth Avenue near the Guggenheim Museum or in Cooper Hewitt Park with his wife, Betty, sharing a bite to eat and watching the world go by. He treasured memories of weekend drives and summers in Sea Girt, NJ, all spent together as a family. Whether reading the newspaper, enjoying a favorite meal (especially dessert) or taking in the energy of the city, he found joy in life’s everyday moments.

Above all, George was deeply devoted to his family. He shared a loving marriage of 50 years with his beloved wife, Betty, and took immense pride in his daughter, Susan. He especially cherished the time he and Susan spent together, including watching basketball games side by side. He also remained closely connected to his extended family, always thinking of them and taking a genuine interest in their lives.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth (“Betty”), and his daughter, Susan, along with a large extended family across the Williamson and Jones families and many dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents, brother and sister.

George lived a life defined by steady presence, genuine kindness and the joy he found in time spent with the people he loved. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Friends and family are invited to gather at Frank E. Campbell - The Funeral Chapel, 1076 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10028, on Friday, June 26. A viewing will be held from 9:00am until the time of service at 10:30am. Interment will immediately follow at St. Raymond’s Cemetery, 2600 Lafayette Avenue, Bronx, NY 10465. All are welcome to continue celebrating George’s life at a gathering on the 4th floor and rooftop of Frank E. Campbell starting at 1:30pm.