Letitia S George

Effie Letitia (Silver) George, a woman of deep faith, wisdom, and an unwavering love for family and community. Born on December 11, 1933, and raised in Manatee County, Letitia carried with her a legacy of service, devotion, and an extraordinary gift for storytelling. On March 6, 2025, she entered her eternal rest, but her impact on the lives of those who knew her will never fade.

Letitia was a walking storybook, able to recall names, dates, and details with such vivid clarity that she could bring the past to life for those around her. Her stories were more than just memories—they were lessons, history, and a testimony of God’s faithfulness throughout her life. One of the guiding pieces of advice she received before college came from a former pastor, who told her to pursue any course of study she desired but to be sure to find a good local church and Sunday school. She took that advice to heart, and the connections she made through her faith became an enduring source of blessing throughout her life. She often reflected on how God placed the right people in her life at the right time and removed those who didn’t need to be there—a testament to her trust in His divine plan.

A dedicated scholar, Letitia earned degrees from Florida State University and Baylor University. She began her career teaching business classes at Venice and Manatee High School but found her true calling as a guidance counselor and scholarship administrator at Manatee Junior College (now State College of Florida). Her work helped shape the future of countless students, providing them with not only financial opportunities but also encouragement and direction. She poured her heart into her role, understanding that education was more than just knowledge—it was a path to empowerment.

Beyond her career, Letitia lived a life of service. She was deeply involved in Samoset Baptist, Manatee Baptist, and First Baptist Church in downtown Bradenton, giving her time and talents in many capacities. She was a faithful friend, mentor, and servant to her community. But among all the lives she touched, her greatest devotion was to her beloved husband, Capt. Jim George. She was his anchor, his steadfast support, whether in the early years of his maritime career, through his leadership in mercy missions, or in his work to help establish Anchor House at Port Manatee. She stood by his side, offering strength, care, and unwavering love until his passing in 2003.

Letitia cherished her family and was a treasured keeper of family history. She ensured that stories, connections, and legacies were not lost but passed down, enriching the lives of those who came after her.

Letitia is survived by her nephew, Scott (Wendy) Silver; nieces Patricia (Lance) Couture and Rebecca (Greg) Wells; great-niece Haley (Luca) Hart; and great-nephews Nick (Alexis) Wells and Matthew Couture. She is also survived by her stepson Robert (Emma) George and grandchildren Carolyn (Ben) Tackett, Rob (Michelle) George, Richard Skene, Michael Skene, Jennifer (Dino) Rustin, Jesse (Victoria) Ornelas, Angela (Sean) Shannahan, and Catrina (Neil) Puntenney; as well as 19 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren.

Letitia was preceded in death by her husband of almost 30 years, Edgar James George, Jr.; her father, Blanchard Sydney Silver; her mother, Alice Letitia Silver; her brother, John F. "Buddy" Silver; her sister-in-law, Marlene Swartz Silver, and Carolyn (Clyde) Skene, her stepdaughter.

Services will be held on March 16th at Griffith & Cline, 720 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205.

Visitation will be held from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm, service will begin at 1:30.

The family suggests that those who wish may make donations to Tidewell Hospice-Bradenton.