George Roger Carney

Born in Glendale, California, George spent his entire life rooted in the San Gabriel community he loved so deeply. As a young man, he attended the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, an experience he remained deeply proud of and one that helped shape his lifelong commitment to discipline, service, and learning. He would later go on to receive his B.A. in History from Pepperdine University, and his California Teaching Credential from California State University, Los Angeles.

George dedicated much of his life to education as a devoted teacher and mentor, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students. He coached both middle school and high school mock trial teams, leading them to numerous victories and inspiring confidence, discipline, and critical thinking in all who worked with him. In recognition of his dedication, a courtroom at the local middle school was named in his honor.

After retiring from teaching, George continued his contributions to the San Gabriel community for nearly eight years as SGUSD’s Energy Manager. He also served for seven years as Chairperson of SGUSD’s Board Advisory Improvement Committee, participating in School Board meetings and offering thoughtful leadership.

George’s commitment to his community extended well beyond his professional roles. He served as a director and vice president of the San Gabriel Chamber of Commerce and was active in the San Gabriel Kiwanis Club and the San Gabriel Jaycees. For nearly a decade, he dedicated his time as a coach, director, and officer of San Gabriel Little League. He was also a member of the San Gabriel Educational Foundation, contributed to city government, and remained closely involved with the Chinese American Citizens Alliance. In recognition of his lifelong service, he was named San Gabriel’s Outstanding Older American Award recipient in 2024. In his own words, George once said about San Gabriel “This city is home to me. I have lived here my entire life; my house is two blocks from the house in which I grew up. As I take my morning walks through my neighborhood, I am reminded every day how much San Gabriel has changed - and how much it has remained the same. I was raised here. I raised my children here. It is a good place to call home.”

Outside of his work and service, George found great joy in reading—especially the Hornblower novels of C.S. Forester—as well as in history, crosswords, and sudoku. He loved the Los Angeles Dodgers and the USC Trojans. He cherished time with his family, particularly the many vacations spent together in San Diego.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Heide, and his children, Lisa, Patrick, and Julie. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Alex, Giselle, Brandon, Ryan, Elizabeth, and Georgia, taking immense pride in their lives and accomplishments.

George will be remembered for his steady presence, his generosity, and his lifelong dedication to his family, his students, and his community. His legacy lives on in the many lives he shaped through his teaching, mentorship, and service.