George Whitaker Ivie was born July 12th, 1938 in Wyatt, Missouri, and passed away March 20th, 2019 in Pleasant Hill, Missouri.  He is survived by his wife of 60 years: Joy Ivie, his two daughters: Cheryl Ivie Marshall (Husband: Todd Marshall) and Teresa Ivie Rowe (Husband: Jimmy Rowe), his four grandchildren: Jessica Rowe Halcomb (Husband: Anthony Halcomb), Abbie Rowe Tyson (Husband: Adley Tyson), Van Marshall, and Mayme Marshall, and his four great grandchildren: Ivie Jo Halcomb, Steven Tyson, Charlie Tyson, and Oliver Halcomb. 

For 80 years, George was an exceptionally devoted, loving, and doting son, brother, husband, father, uncle, and “Papa.”  His love for his family was boundless.  He had an enormous heart, relentless work ethic, infectious smile, and indelible spirit.  He left a lasting impression on those who knew him well, and on those who didn’t.  He had a humble, effortlessly positive impact on countless lives, and was so gracious in earning the love and respect of everyone around him. 

He cherished every second spent with his grandchildren and always exhibited a gentle, nurturing nature.  He had, at times, nearly unfathomable patience.  He never got angry.  Not once.  

He was known to give his all without expecting anything in return.  His witty humor was unforgettable: he was as funny as he was selfless.  He filled people’s lives with infinite happiness and memories that will undoubtedly last for generations.  While George would most likely not admit or even believe it (because he was self-effacing that way), there is no question that anyone who knew him is a better person because of it, and the world was a better place with him in it. 

Merle Haggard (George’s favorite singer) was one of the greatest influences in country music.  Much like Merle, George was a man with great influence— not in country music of course, but in the lives of many. 

“Won't you sing me back home, with the song I used to hear?

Make my old memories come alive,

Take me away and turn back the years.”

                                                -Merle Haggard

George is “home.”  And for the many people who loved him, memories of George will continue to “come alive,” assuring that his influence on the world will remain as quietly profound as it was before his passing.  

George Whitaker Ivie will be forever missed, but never forgotten.  

George’s family kindly asks that (in lieu of flowers) you donate to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of George.  To make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of George, please visit the following website link: http://act.alz.org/site/TR/Events/Tributes-AlzheimersChampions?pxfid=540030&fr_id=1060&pg=fund