George A. Nakley, 57, passed away on January 14, 2022 at the Cleveland Clinic. He was born to Sue Nakley and the late Raymond Nakley, Sr. on February 4, 1964 at Northside Hospital in Youngstown. He is survived by his daughter and best friend, Leah Nakley, her husband, Dr. Ravi Guttikonda, his grand-dog Brody as well as his mother and siblings, Ray, Dom, Mike, and Susie, his former wife and dear friend, Eliza Rella, eight nieces and nephews, numerous cousins, and a large extended family.
In 1982, George graduated from Ursuline High School, where he was a three-year letter winner in football and made lifelong friends. He worked for the Mahoning County Engineer’s Office, logging 20 years of public service and developing new friendships. George also traveled extensively through Europe, Ireland, Lebanon (his beloved ancestral homeland), and other international destinations. He was deeply committed to the Youngstown arts and music community centered around the Cedars Lounge. George was passionate about historical preservation and filled his home, the deconsecrated First Presbyterian Church of Lowellville, with an eclectic visual art collection that brought joy to the diverse people he welcomed there.
Those who knew George will remember him for his tolerance, kindness, patience, generosity, intellectual curiosity, and genuine respect for all cultures and people. George radiated optimism and zeal for life; his company was incomparable, and it was impossible not to have fun in his presence. George and his family are deeply grateful for the excellent care he received from the Cleveland Clinic ICU team and his pulmonologist, Dr. Joseph Parambil, in particular. George requested that there be no formal or religious memorial service. However, friends and family may donate to the Lupus Foundation of America, support local artists, or help someone in need, as George did.
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